Defending Your Rights & Reputation Across the Greater Peoria Area
A domestic violence charge doesn’t just bring legal trouble, it impacts your home, job, relationships, and reputation. These situations escalate quickly, and a single accusation can result in arrest, protective orders, or even child custody complications before you ever step into a courtroom.
At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we’ve handled thousands of criminal cases across Central Illinois, including domestic battery and related charges. With more than 25 years of combined defense experience, and a former prosecutor on our team, we understand how these cases are built and what it takes to respond.
Call (309) 250-1871 now for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 and offer virtual appointments.
Our Approach to Domestic Violence Defense
Every domestic violence case is different, but many involve emotional situations with limited evidence and conflicting stories. We dig deep into the facts, timeline, and police conduct to build a defense tailored to your circumstances.
Our approach includes:
Identifying conflicting accounts
Examining substance use or emotional escalation
Reviewing possible false accusations or misunderstandings
Analyzing arrest procedures and physical evidence (or lack thereof)
With a former prosecutor on our side, we know how these cases are charged, and what it takes to challenge them.
What Counts as Domestic Violence in Illinois?
Under Illinois law, domestic violence typically involves threats, harassment, or physical contact involving someone in a “domestic relationship,” including:
Spouses or former spouses
Dating partners
Parents and children
Family members or roommates
The most common charge is domestic battery, which may be filed even when there are no visible injuries or when emotions are running high. Police in Peoria and surrounding areas often respond quickly, and once an arrest is made, prosecutors usually move forward, even if the accuser later wants to drop the charges.
The Impact of a Domestic Violence Charge in Peoria, IL
Domestic charges can bring long-term consequences.
Even a first-time arrest can lead to:
A permanent criminal record
Emergency protective orders or no-contact orders
Custody or visitation complications
Workplace challenges or job loss
Jail time or probation
Courts often issue protective orders within hours, which can limit your contact with family members or bar you from your own home. That’s why acting quickly, and with the right representation, matters.
With a background in prosecution, we know how the other side thinks—and how to build stronger defenses and smarter injury claims.
Local Experience, Proven Results
Born and raised here, we’ve handled thousands of cases across Illinois and recovered millions for clients in your community.
Trial-Ready Custom Strategy
Every case is prepared as if it’s going to court, giving you maximum leverage whether we’re negotiating or litigating.
24/7 Availability & Clear Communication
We’re always just a call away—and we make sure you’re informed at every stage of your case.
Local Representation Across the Greater Peoria Area
Since 2012, we’ve built our firm around responsive, trial-ready representation for people across Central Illinois.
We’ve handled thousands of criminal cases and have a long track record in local courts across:
Peoria
East Peoria
Pekin
Morton
Washington
Tazewell County
Woodford County
Fulton County
We don’t just show up, we get involved. From reviewing the police report to planning for court, we stay accessible and communicative at every step.
Call (309) 250-1871 or reach out onlineto set up your free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7 and offer flexible scheduling, including virtual appointments.
“The results of having them on my case were better than I could have ever imagined and the level of care and compassion I received was next to none. On top of all of that, their skills and knowledge prevented me from receiving an undeserved felony charge.”
