This is the next post in my series addressing common issues and questions regarding felony offenses in Peoria, Illinois. My last article discussed defending against a Class “3” felony in our state. It is important to remember that such felonies can result in a prison sentence of five to ten years and a fine of up to $25,000. All felony convictions can also have serious consequences on your future, such as years of parole conditions and restrictions on your rights. If you have been charged with any felony, you should not take the matter into your own hands as this will likely make matters worse. It is recommended that you retain experienced counsel as soon as possible so they can begin building your case sooner rather than later. In this article I will discuss what to expect when you are charged with a Class “2” felony in Illinois. If you require assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
Illinois Class “2” felonies can result in three to seven years of imprisonment
Illinois Class “2” felony convictions can lead to a prison sentence of not less than three years but no more than seven. However, any Class “2” felony charge is potentially eligible for an extended term. If this applies then a defendant can possibly be sentenced to a minimum prison term of seven years and a maximum of fourteen years. The most common reason for an extended term Class “2” felony charge is if the defendant has had a felony of the same or greater class of offense within the past 10 years. However, this decision is generally within the Court’s discretion and will be based on the surrounding circumstances.
It is important to remember that all felony convictions will stay on your record forever unless they are expunged. While an arrest that did not lead to a conviction may be sealed or removed from one’s public criminal history, a conviction results in a more lasting record. This can lead to disqualification from employment, housing, and other matters which require a background check. Furthermore, a felony conviction can make it difficult to obtain a professional license or credentials. Finally, having a felony conviction means that one will be barred from possessing a firearm anywhere in the United States, pursuant to federal law.,
You should contact a Peoria, Illinois lawyer to assist you with defending your Class “2” felony charges
Some Class “2” offenses can result in probation in place of jail time. This will also be based on the judge’s discretion and will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Some factors the judge will consider include whether the defendant faced other criminal charges, the nature of the conduct, and any prior criminal record. Moreover, judges tend to look at whether the individual accepts responsibility for their actions and shows remorse; if someone enters into a plea agreement and expresses remorse then this will generally weigh in their favor. A judge may also offer a less severe punishment to someone that appears to be cooperative.
If you or a family member have been charged with a crime then contact my office today to speak with a Peoria criminal defense lawyer. I am a former prosecutor who devotes his practice to protecting the rights of the accused. I understand that your current situation can have a serious impact on your future and my office will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone today. We look forward to speaking with you.
My office also represents clients in Bloomington, Decatur, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. We also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.