This post is being written to conclude my series of articles which have addressed the defense of Class 3 felony theft charges in Peoria, Illinois. I considered this to be an important topic to write about because theft charges are often misunderstood and can carry serious consequences. Many individuals facing felony theft charges do not know how Illinois classifies such offenses, what to expect from the criminal process, or which defenses can be asserted. It is critical to speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately if you have been charged or are facing an investigation. The goal of this blog series was to provide information to help people better understand their situation and legal options. I also aimed to offer assistance regarding how to select qualified representation. Contact my office today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer if you are in need of assistance.
I have addressed several important topics throughout the course of this series. Issues which I have analyzed include the following:
- When theft becomes a Class 3 felony under Illinois law
- Potential search & seizure issues in theft cases
- How Miranda issues can impact a theft case
- The process one will face once charged with felony theft
I have chosen to address these particular issues for a number of reasons. First, the classification of theft depends on several factors such as the value of the property and the nature of the offense. A Class 3 felony theft can result in significant fines and prison time. Second, the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unlawful searches and seizures. This constitutional protection requires law enforcement to follow specific procedures when conducting searches of a person, vehicle, or property. Gathering evidence improperly can result in evidence being excluded from trial or a reduction or dismissal of charges. Third, a theft case can be impacted by Miranda issues. Any statements an individual makes before being read one’s right to remain silent and request an attorney may be inadmissible in Court. Finally, many people facing charges are unfamiliar with the legal process and do not know what to expect. It usually involves an arrest, formal charges being filed, an arraignment, pre-trial Motions, plea negotiations, then trial. Having the guidance and support of an experienced attorney can impact the outcome of a case.
One point I made in each of the articles in this series is that it is crucial to retain legal counsel immediately. Having an attorney on your side from the beginning increases your chances of a positive outcome. I am a Peoria criminal defense lawyer and a former prosecutor who has devoted my practice to defending those accused of crimes in Illinois. I firmly believe that each person deserves aggressive legal representation. Contact my office online or by phone to schedule a consultation if you have been charged with Class 3 felony theft. 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.