Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me

If you have been charged with a criminal offense, you owe it to yourself to start working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. You have certain rights when you are arrested. These include the right to remain silent when interacting with law enforcement, the right to refuse to consent to an officer’s request to enter your home or vehicle without a valid warrant, and the right to have a lawyer represent you in court. In the stressful moments following your arrest, remember your rights.

Criminal law is a broad area that encompasses many different offenses and categories of offense. Relatively minor offenses, like harassment and the possession of a small amount of marijuana, are known as misdemeanors. More serious offenses, like arson and murder, are known as felonies.

Illinois Diversion Programs

In some cases, it is possible to avoid certain penalties and even avoid a conviction altogether by participating in a diversion program. These programs range from court supervision to impact incarceration, sometimes known as “boot camp.”

Talk to your lawyer to determine if you qualify for a diversion program. Typically, individuals without extensive criminal histories are eligible for some type of program and in many cases, substance abuse treatment is offered as part of the program.

Penalties for Criminal Convictions in Illinois

The penalties for a criminal conviction depend on the level of its charge. In addition to being categorized into misdemeanors and felonies, criminal charges are each assigned to classes. Below are the penalties for each class of criminal conviction in Illinois:

• Class C Misdemeanor: up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500;
• Class B Misdemeanor: up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500;
• Class A Misdemeanor: up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500;
• Class 4 Felony: one to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000;
• Class 3 Felony: two to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000;
• Class 2 Felony: three to seven years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000;
• Class 1 Felony: four to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000;
• Class X Felony: six to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

For certain convictions, such as murder, other penalties may be possible. If you are facing a criminal charge, talk to your lawyer about the penalties you are facing and how a reduced charge or a plea bargain would impact these penalties.

Work with an Experienced Lockport Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are currently facing a criminal charge, you need to start working on your case’s defense with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Contact our team at Sabuco Beck, P.C., P.C. today to schedule your initial consultation with us. We can answer any questions you have about the criminal justice process and help you develop a strong defense strategy for your case. Do not wait to get started with our team. Be proactive and start working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer today.