This is the next post in my series on the handling of Illinois Class “B” misdemeanor charges. My last article discussed common defenses against Class “B” misdemeanors. It is important to understand that the strategy for defending a case will depend on the nature of the charges. Also, it is common for a defendant to face multiple counts, all stemming from one course of conduct. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will advise you as to how to proceed with the case. This article will expand upon that discussion by explaining the importance of retaining an attorney to assist you. If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation.
One of the most common mistakes that defendants make when charged with a misdemeanor is to believe that the matter is “not serious” due to the fact that it is less than a felony. This is especially true in situations where the charges are for a first offense. I discuss why such a belief is a mistake in this video:
As I discussed in the video above, it is important to understand that any misdemeanor conviction can carry serious consequences. These include the defendant being saddled with a permanent criminal record. Such can result in an individual having difficulty obtaining employment, housing, and other necessities which require a background check. Furthermore, having a criminal record can result in stiffer penalties for any future offenses and can potentially result in an individual not being able to obtain a professional license. Mounting a vigorous defense can help to prevent these outcomes.
An attorney can help an accused individual to understand the options that are available to them. In many misdemeanor cases, an individual may believe that they have no available defenses after they have been arrested. The fact of the matter, however, is that search and seizure issues may be present in cases involving narcotics. Also, a claim of self-defense may be viable in matters involving assault and battery or domestic violence. These are just a few examples of how counsel may be able to identify defenses which the accused person did not know otherwise existed in the case. Depending on the nature of the charges, it may be possible to defend against the charges at trial. Even if it is not possible to defend the matter, counsel may be able to reach a more favorable resolution with the prosecution.
It is strongly suggested that you retain counsel before your initial court appearance. The more time that your attorney has to conduct a proper investigation, and file any necessary Motions, then the more time they have to mount a proper defense on your behalf. An attorney will use your initial consultation to give you an honest assessment in regard to the best path forward. Having counsel can help you to understand what to expect as you move through the process. These are just a few of the reasons why retaining counsel sooner, rather than later, is important.
If you or a family member have been arrested then contact my office today to speak with a Peoria misdemeanor defense lawyer. As a former prosecutor, I am familiar with the workings of our local court system. I believe that everyone is entitled to quality representation and my office will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone today to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to speaking with you. I also serve the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Shuyler, Stark, Tazewell and Woodford. I also handle federal cases in Urbana.