How Valentine's Day Affects Domestic Violence Arrests

 Posted on February 07, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Valentine’s Day is supposed to be a day when romantic relationships are celebrated, and couples enjoy a romantic evening together. Sources are divided on whether domestic violence incidents increase or decrease on Valentine’s Day. Some sources, including Psychology Today, report that domestic violence-related calls to the police usually decrease slightly on Valentine’s Day and then begin to peak again in the following days. Other sources report that police respond to more domestic disputes on Valentine’s Day. Our experienced Will County, IL domestic violence attorneys have seen firsthand that many people arrested for domestic violence do not fit the stereotype of a habitual abuser but instead simply had an argument get out of hand. Police do not always succeed in arresting the primary aggressor, and there is often little to no evidence that an assault took place.

Why Domestic Violence May Increase On or After Valentine’s Day 

All major holidays can serve as a catalyst for disputes between couples. Couples might feel a lot of pressure around Valentine’s Day to have the right kind of celebration - a formal dinner out, gifts, and surprises for each other. When couples are already unhappy or do not communicate well, one member of a couple may end up disappointed and frustrated. This can spark fights between couples that may turn physical.

Police May Respond to Domestic Violence Calls Without Making an Arrest

It is extremely common for police to respond to a call about a domestic dispute without making an arrest. When a concerned neighbor calls because he or she hears yelling, the police may well arrive to find that neither party is alleging that he or she was assaulted. In other cases, the parties are telling very different stories, and the police cannot establish probable cause to arrest either of them. However, police often do make an arrest if they are sent back to the same residence multiple times, which may partially explain why domestic violence arrests reportedly increase in the days after Valentine’s Day.

When Domestic Violence Arrests Are Made in Error

It is not always obvious to the police which party was the primary aggressor, even when there is substantial proof of a physical altercation. Both parties may be claiming self-defense, or both may have minor injuries. Law enforcement officers sometimes arrest the victim in error, arrest someone when no assault has taken place, or even arrest both parties if it appears there was a fight. Facing a higher overall call volume on holidays, police may have less patience to investigate carefully before arresting someone.

Contact a Will County, IL Domestic Violence Attorney

McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC is experienced in representing people who have been accused of domestic violence. Our dedicated Joliet, IL domestic violence lawyers will work to bring you the best defense possible. Contact us at 815-727-0100 for a complimentary consultation.