Former Judge Dave Carlson has stepped into the role of defense attorney for Chuck Bretz, who is facing serious domestic violence charges. These charges arose after Bretz was arrested by the Minooka Police Department in October and subsequently formally charged at the Grundy County Courthouse.
Key Details of the Case
- Defendant: Chuck Bretz, a criminal defense attorney from Minooka.
- Charges Filed: Two counts of domestic violence.
- Arrest Date: October 2018.
- Court Appearance: Scheduled for February 23, 2026, in Grundy County Courthouse.
Bretz’s situation unfolded on the same day that jury selection was set to begin for his client, Peter Zabala, in a highly publicized murder trial. Will County Judge Jessica Colon-Sayre announced that Zabala’s trial has been postponed until March 2, 2026, due to a request from the defense team.
Background on Chuck Bretz
At 68 years old, Bretz has been a prominent figure in Joliet’s legal scene. He previously faced legal issues, including a DUI arrest in February 2020, where he was ultimately found not guilty of DUI charges. In October 2022, he was arrested for allegedly beating a young family member with a belt, a claim supported by eyewitness accounts and video surveillance.
Details Surrounding Bretz’s Arrest
The events of his domestic violence case began when witnesses reported an incident involving Bretz and a four-year-old child near the business district during a local parade. Although the child was not seriously harmed, the allegations led to Bretz’s swift arrest and subsequent legal troubles.
The Role of Former Judge Dave Carlson
Dave Carlson, known for presiding over numerous high-profile criminal cases during his time on the bench, has transitioned to private practice in downtown Joliet. He now represents Bretz as legal counsel amidst these significant charges.
The upcoming court proceedings will not only address Bretz’s domestic violence allegations but will also impact the timeline of the murder trial of Peter Zabala, further complicating the legal landscape in Will County.
As the situation develops, Carlson and Bretz’s legal strategies will be under close scrutiny from the community and the media.
