Battery occurs when one harm another without legal justification or when one makes contact with another that insults and provokes (720 ILCS 5/12-3).This could be hitting another person or even giving an unwanted kiss. It is considered a Class A misdemeanor where the maximum jail sentence is 364 days; however, you may be eligible for court supervision (which is a finding of guilty, but not a conviction on your permanent record). If you receive a conviction, it is permanently on your criminal record and can affect your future negatively.
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Not every battery charge is a misdemeanor, however. An aggravated battery charge is one in which serious physical harm has been done to another party or when a weapon is used. Aggravated battery is a felony, and the consequences are much more serious, including the possibility of a prolonged prison sentence. It can carry a penalty of 2-5 years or 3-7 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections depending upon how the charges are written.
Contact Lamp Law LLC to find out more about charges specific to your situation.