This is the first post in a series of articles which will discuss Illinois Class 2 felony theft. I am writing on this topic as it is common for people to be surprised by the potential penalties which they can face for such charges. This, in turn, can lead to failure to give the matter the initial attention it deserves. I am writing this series of articles, therefore, with the goal of providing information which will help people to better understand their options. It is also my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a criminal defense attorney. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be addressing several topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will be analyzing include the following:
- What constitutes Class 2 felony theft in our state
- The potential sentences associated with such charges
- The possibility of receiving probation
- Cases which involve search and seizure issues
- The importance of having experienced counsel
There are multiple reasons why I have chosen to address these particular topics. First, this level of a charge will involve more valuable property than what is typically considered “petty.” Class 2 felony cases will often involve amounts ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Smaller amounts can also result in this level of charges if the offense occurred in a specially protected place or against a specially protected population. Second, while these charges are often probationable, they also carry a maximum sentence of up to seven years in prison. Third, many defendants make the mistake of thinking that they have few to no options after they have been arrested. If the matter involves search and seizure issues, for example, then it may be possible to gain a dismissal of the charges. Finally, having counsel with experience in such matters is vital to making sure that your case is handled correctly.
An important point that I will be making in each of these articles is that one should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible after charges have been filed. Counsel will take immediate steps to protect your rights. This will include obtaining discovery, filing any necessary Motions, etc. I am a former prosecutor who is devoted to protecting the rights of the accused. My firm prides itself on providing a high level of service and we will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to speak with a Peoria felony defense lawyer. We look forward to speaking with you.
We also serve clients in Bloomington, Decatur, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington and the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. Additional areas where we handle federal cases include Benton, Chicago, East St. Louis, Springfield, and Urbana.