My firm understands the serious nature of misdemeanor charges even though they carry less severe penalties than a felony. A conviction can mean jail time, fines, harsher consequences for future convictions, the loss of employment opportunities, and the loss of one’s firearm rights if the conviction involves domestic violence. Retaining an experienced attorney can make a difference in how the situation impacts your future. I am a misdemeanor defense lawyer who represents defendants in Peoria and elsewhere. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation.
Peoria criminal defense attorney aggressively handling misdemeanor cases
Illinois misdemeanors carry a sentence of one year or less in jail along with certain fines. Offenses punishable by more than one year will be charged as a felony. Our state divides misdemeanor offenses into the following categories:
- Class A – Punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
- Class B – Punishable by up to six months in jail and a maximum fine of $1,500
- Class C – Punishable by up to thirty days in jail and a fine of up to $1,500
It is important to understand that such offenses have an eighteen month “statute of limitations.” If the prosecution does not file charges within one and one-half years of the time the crime was committed then they are prohibited from initiating a prosecution.
Cases will begin with an arraignment at which the defendant will enter a plea of “guilty” or “not guilty.” The Court will set a trial date and defense counsel will be given evidence such as the police reports, witness statements, security footage, and other “discovery” the prosecution is required to provide. Defendants will have the option of having the matter decided by a Judge or a Jury; Illinois differs from many other states in that juries can be requested for a misdemeanor charge. Having a lawyer to assist you with the process is crucial to your future.
I am a Peoria criminal defense attorney assisting those facing misdemeanor charges. I will use your initial consultation to hear your side of the story and will help you to understand what to expect from the process. I will ensure that you understand the seriousness of the situation and potential penalties which you face. I will visit the scene of the incident, interview relevant witnesses, and will subpoena any evidence not provided by the prosecution. I will file any necessary Motions with the Court, ensure that you are prepared for trial, and aggressively protect your rights throughout the process. As a lawyer, I understand the seriousness of your situation and will give you the personal attention which you deserve. Contact my firm today.
In addition to Peoria, I service the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I also 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.
Peoria misdemeanor lawyer providing quality representation to those facing charges
If you are facing misdemeanor charges then you are already worried about your situation. I recognize this and strive to provide a level of service not offered by many attorneys. I handle all matters in the office personally. This means that you will be dealing with your lawyer directly. I also draft my own Motions and pay close attention to each case which I handle. I regularly provide clients with my cell phone number, can be reached via text messaging, and make myself accessible in the event you have questions. I believe that everyone is entitled to the strongest level of defense and this is my promise to every client I serve.
Examples of misdemeanor charges I handle include, but are not limited to, drug offenses, domestic violence charges, DUI, and reckless driving.