CHARGED WITH AGGRAVATED BATTERY IN CHICAGO? ANDREW M. WEISBERG CAN DEFEND YOUR RIGHTS
Aggravated battery is one of the most serious felony offenses under Illinois law. If you or someone you care about has been charged, the stakes could not be higher. A conviction can lead to years in prison, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and nearly every part of your life.
When the charge is this serious, you need a defense attorney who knows exactly how these cases are built and how to dismantle the prosecution’s strategy. As a former felony prosecutor, Andrew M. Weisberg brings the strategic insight, courtroom experience, and aggressive advocacy necessary to protect your rights.
Understanding Aggravated Battery Under Illinois Law
Under 720 ILCS 5/12-3.05, aggravated battery is charged when the State alleges that a defendant caused serious bodily harm, permanent disability, permanent disfigurement, or committed a battery under certain enhanced circumstances—such as against a protected class of victim (police officer, teacher, transit employee, senior, child) or using a deadly weapon.
This is a felony offense, and the sentencing ranges can vary widely depending on the allegation:
• Class 3 felony (2–5 years) – the most common aggravated battery range
• Class 2 felony (3–7 years) – often applies when the victim is a police officer
• Enhanced sentencing ranges (6–30 years) – in more severe cases involving great bodily harm, use of weapons, or certain protected victims
Fines can reach up to $25,000, and felony convictions generally cannot be expunged or sealed.
A skilled defense attorney must evaluate every detail of the incident, including witness statements, physical evidence, and police procedure, to challenge the charges and work toward the best outcome.
Factors That Influence an Aggravated Battery Charge
Aggravated battery can be charged in many ways depending on the specific facts of the case. Some allegations that elevate a simple battery to aggravated battery include:
• Severe injury, disability, or disfigurement
• A child, senior, police officer, firefighter, or other protected individual as the alleged victim
• Use of a deadly weapon or dangerous object
• Providing a controlled substance that causes harm
• Battery occurring in a public place like a school, transit system, or correctional facility
Because aggravated battery covers so many possible scenarios, the penalties and potential defenses vary significantly. This makes experienced legal guidance critical to determining the right strategy.
Aggravated Battery vs. Battery vs. Assault in Illinois
Many people confuse battery with assault, or do not understand what makes a battery “aggravated.” These distinctions matter because they affect your exposure to prison time and long-term consequences.
• Assault (720 ILCS 5/12-1) involves placing someone in reasonable fear of being battered
• Battery (720 ILCS 5/12-3) involves actual, unwanted physical contact
• Aggravated Battery (720 ILCS 5/12-3.05) involves physical injury, a protected victim, or specific aggravating actions
A thorough review of your case may reveal that prosecutors overcharged the offense or applied an enhancement incorrectly—opening the door to reduced charges or more favorable negotiations.
Defending Aggravated Battery Charges in Chicago
Andrew M. Weisberg prepares every aggravated battery case with the goal of securing the most favorable outcome possible—including dismissal, reduction in charges, or a not-guilty verdict at trial. Depending on the facts of your case, potential defense strategies may include:
• Arguing self-defense or defense of others
• Demonstrating that the alleged injury does not meet the legal requirement for aggravated battery
• Exposing inconsistencies or credibility issues in witness statements
• Challenging unreliable or incomplete police reports
• Showing that the defendant was wrongly identified
• Identifying constitutional violations, such as unlawful arrest or improper search
• Negotiating reduced charges that avoid a felony conviction
Every aggravated battery case is unique, and Andrew tailors the defense strategy specifically to the facts and circumstances of your situation.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Chicago Aggravated Battery Lawyer
Aggravated battery charges demand a lawyer who can think like a prosecutor while fighting like a defense attorney. Andrew M. Weisberg brings both perspectives.
As a former felony-level prosecutor in Cook County and Will County, Andrew has handled countless violent-crime cases from both sides of the courtroom. This insider experience gives him an edge that few attorneys possess.
Clients choose Andrew because he offers:
• Deep knowledge of Illinois violent-crime statutes
• Aggressive, strategic defense tailored to your case
• Strong negotiation skills and trial experience
• Direct communication and personal attention
• A calm, steady presence during the most stressful time of your life
You will work directly with Andrew—not a junior associate or assistant—and receive honest, clear guidance every step of the way.
When You’re Facing Aggravated Battery Charges, Early Action Matters
The earlier you involve a defense attorney, the more opportunities exist to improve the outcome of your case. Early intervention may allow Andrew to challenge the evidence, negotiate before charges harden, or gather critical information before it disappears.
If you’ve been arrested or believe you’re under investigation, do not wait.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you or a loved one is facing aggravated battery charges in Chicago or the surrounding areas, you need a skilled and aggressive attorney immediately. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to provide the help you need.
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website for a prompt response
Your future is too important to leave to chance. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his experience to work for you.
