Criminal Defense Attorneys – Elgin, IL
Kane County Criminal Defense Lawyers
Facing Criminal Charges in Illinois
When you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, it can be difficult to know where to turn. With the possibility of jail time, fines and other penalties looming, you may feel like you’re in over your head. That’s where our experience comes in.
The criminal defense attorneys at Doyen Law Group include a former Kane County Prosecutor and a former Army JAG prosecutor. That means we understand the ins and outs of the criminal justice process and know how the prosecution thinks. We’ll use that knowledge to advise you, and to construct the best defense possible given the specifics of your case.
Possible Criminal Penalties
When you think about the consequences of a criminal conviction, jail time and fines are probably your two biggest concerns. But, depending on the nature of the crime, there may be much more at risk. Some of the possible direct and indirect consequences of a criminal conviction include:
- Suspension or restriction of your driver’s license
- Increased cost of automobile insurance
- Restrictive terms of probation
- An obligation to compensate victims
- Seizure of property
- Loss of employment opportunities
- More serious consequences for future convictions
In short, there’s a lot at stake—maybe more than you realize. That’s why it’s in your best interests to have an experienced criminal lawyer at your side, explaining the process, examining the case against you for weaknesses, negotiating on your behalf and, if necessary, fighting the charges in court. Rather than worrying about what lies ahead and possibly missing important deadlines and opportunities, call us today to learn more about how we can help.
Misdemeanor Criminal Charges
Although misdemeanor charges are less serious than felony charges, they can still carry very real consequences. A misdemeanor conviction can carry a possible penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of $2,500. Depending upon the crime, there may also be additional consequences like those listed above. Don’t take a criminal charge lightly simply because it’s a misdemeanor.
Felony Criminal Charges
A felony criminal charge, by definition, is one carrying a possible penalty of more than 12 months incarceration. While those convicted of misdemeanors are sentenced to county jail, a felony conviction often leads to incarceration in a state prison.
The lowest level felony in Illinois is a Class 4 felony, which may result in a term of one to three years in prison. A Class X felony is the most serious, and carries a potential sentence of up to 30 years. A felony conviction may also result in a fine of up to $25,000. In addition, under certain circumstances a defendant may be subject to extended sentencing, which doubles the maximum possible sentence.
If you’ve been charged with a felony, don’t take chances. Talk to a local criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible so that you can make the best decision for your future. Just call (847) 720-5815.
Fighting Criminal Charges
It may feel like the deck is stacked against you, but in a criminal case the burden lies with the prosecution. The prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. When you’re charged with a crime and not represented by an attorney, the prosecuting attorney may offer a plea bargain and tell you that it’s the best possible outcome for you. Remember that the prosecutor’s goal is not to help you achieve the best possible outcome—it’s to obtain a conviction.
Sometimes, it is in your best interest to enter into a plea agreement, but it’s never a good idea to make important decisions out of fear, or with inadequate information.
We can assess the case against you to determine whether there are weaknesses that might lead to a dismissal or a victory at trial. Even if you don’t want to go to trial or the risk is too significant, identifying those weaknesses will strengthen your position and allow us to negotiate for a more favorable plea agreement.
Getting the peace of mind that comes with having a seasoned advocate on your side can be as easy as picking up the phone. Call us right now at (847) 720-5815.
We help people and families with these criminal defense law misdemeanor and felony cases:
- Assault
- Battery
- Burglary
- Check Fraud
- Credit Card Theft
- Disorderly Conduct
- Domestic Battery
- Domestic Violence
- Drivers’ License Suspension / Revocation
- DUI / Drunk Driving
- Drug Crimes
- Expungement / Record Sealing
- Federal Criminal Defense
- Felonies
- Forgery
- Firearm Possession
- Gun Charges
- Identity Theft
- Internet Sex Crimes
- Juvenile Crime Defense
- Misdemeanors
- Murder
- Obstructing Justice
- Prostitution & Solicitation
- Rape
- Resisting Arrest
- Retail Theft
- Robbery
- Secretary of State Hearings
- Shoplifting
- Speeding Tickets
- Theft
- Traffic Offenses / Violations
- Violent Crimes
- Weapon Offenses
- White Collar Crimes
Contact the Doyen Law Group, LLC today for a free consultation and case evaluation.