This is the first post in a series of articles which will address the topic of defending against a first offense in Peoria, Illinois. I believe it is important to write on this topic as, for obvious reasons, most will not know what to expect during their initial encounter with the criminal justice system. The process can be both daunting and intimidating. The purpose of my coming articles is to provide information which can ease some of that anxiety by assisting people with knowing what they should expect from the process. It is also my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a criminal defense lawyer. If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to schedule an appointment.
I will be addressing a number of topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will discuss include:
- Facing first offense misdemeanor charges
- Facing first offense felony charges
- The importance of retaining a qualified attorney
- The potential consequences of a conviction
- The possibility of sealing or expunging your record
There are multiple reasons why I will be addressing these topics. First, while many may think that misdemeanor charges do not seem serious, they can have harsh consequences. These consequences include jail time and having a permanent criminal record. Second, it is important to understand that felony charges carry the potential for prison, the inability to possess a firearm, and more. Third, it is important to retain counsel who is experienced in handling criminal matters and who will help you know what to expect as the process moves forward. Fourth, the result of a case can go well beyond a jail sentence. A permanent record can result in disqualification from housing, employment, etc. Finally, these permanent penalties can sometimes be alleviated by the sealing or expungement of a record.
If you or a family member have been arrested then it is crucial that you take the matter seriously and seek counsel as soon as possible. I am a former prosecutor who now devotes his practice to defending the rights of the accused. I understand that this is a serious situation and I will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to speak with a Peoria criminal defense 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.