This is the next post in my series on common issues and questions which arise in regard to Peoria, Illinois felony charges. My last article provided an overview of topics that this series will be addressing. It also stressed the need to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you have been arrested. It is important that you speak with counsel sooner, and not later, as your representative will need time to begin building a case on your behalf. In this article I will discuss dealing with a Class “4” felony in our state. If you require assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
Illinois Class “4” felony cases can result in a sentence of one to three years
Class “4” felonies are Illinois’ least serious felony charge. Despite this, these charges should not be taken lightly. A defendant that is convicted of a Class “4” felony can receive a prison sentence of one to three years. Such a conviction can also result in a fine of up to $25,000. Further, even if you are not convicted of the charges, the mere allegation of a felony offense can have severe consequences. These charges can have a negative impact on your overall reputation in society. They can make it difficult to establish employment, housing, and gain professional licenses. Moreover, they can affect your relationship with your loved ones. Thus, while Class “4” felonies are the least severe of its kind, they should certainly still be taken seriously.
Some common Class “4” felonies include aggravated assault, drug possession of a controlled substance, driving on a revoked driver’s license, and more. Incidents that can result in Class “4” felony charges will typically lead to the defendant being arrested and placed in custody. Upon arrest, it is possible to post bond to secure release. Accused individuals may also ask to be released on their own recognizance. This means they can get bail without paying bond. Next, an arraignment will be held where the defendant will choose to plead either “guilty” or “not guilty.” The Court will then set a date for the trial. The defense will prepare for trial by conducting an investigation, considering all of the evidence involved, and filing any motions that may be beneficial to the case. The defendant’s lawyer may try to get the case dismissed through a motion, depending on the nature of the charges. If this does not happen, then the case will need to proceed with a trial.
How to defend against Class “4” felonies depends on the nature of the charges
All felony cases are incredibly complicated and very serious matters. You should not take matters into your own hands as this may make your situation worse. Class “4” felony charges can result in alternative punishments aside from standard incarceration. For example, such charges may be eligible for probation or conditional discharge. However, this will be established on a case-by-case basis and the decision will ultimately be left to the discretion of the judge.
If you have been charged with a felony, you should not deal with this situation alone. Receiving any criminal charge is extremely stressful so it is best to retain a lawyer that can advocate for you. I am a Peoria criminal defense attorney who devotes his practice to defending the rights of the accused. As a former prosecutor, I am familiar with the workings of the criminal justice system and I will make sure you know what to expect as the case moves forward. I strive to provide a level of service and personalized attention that is not common among law firms. I believe that the accused are entitled to effective representation and providing it is my priority. Felony matters I handle include, but are not limited to, federal charges, violent crimes, and white collar crimes. Contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
In addition to Peoria, I service 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, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. I also handle federal cases in Urbana.