What is domestic battery by strangulation?

It's a felony rather than a misdemeanor, which distinguishes it sharply from simple domestic battery.

The allegation involves knowingly and intentionally impeding normal breathing or circulation by applying pressure to the throat or neck, or by blocking the nose or mouth, creating a risk of or causing great bodily harm.

What makes these cases distinctive is the evidence. Strangulation frequently leaves little or no visible injury, so cases often rest on the complaining witness's account, an officer's observations, and medical documentation — including findings like petechiae, voice changes, or difficulty swallowing.

The defense work is correspondingly medical. What the records actually show, whether documented findings support the allegation, whether alternative explanations exist for observed marks, and whether the account has remained consistent.

The felony classification also changes everything downstream: sentencing exposure, firearms consequences, immigration consequences, and sealing eligibility.