Whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony, getting charged with a criminal offense is very serious. A felony is, of course, far more serious than a misdemeanor, but in either case, it is important to seek legal help. This is especially important in case of a misdemeanor charge. You may take it lightly, but the prosecution will not. Instead, they will try their best to make sure you receive maximum punishment for the offense.
Getting in touch with a strong and qualified criminal defense lawyer is the first step to avoiding this. A good defense lawyer will be able to assess the gravity of the situation and set up a strong defense. Remember, both misdemeanors and felonies can have a significant impact on your life. A conviction will go on your permanent record, the effects of which can last a lifetime.
What Happens If You are Charged with a Misdemeanor?
A resident of Illinois is subject to 3 degrees of misdemeanor charges.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Maximum penalty is up to a year in jail and $2,500 fines and costs.
- Class B Misdemeanor: Maximum penalty is up to 6 months in jail and pay $1,500 in fines and costs.
- Class C Misdemeanor: Maximum penalty up to 30 days in jail and $1,500 in fines and costs.
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, seek legal help from a misdemeanor defense lawyer immediately.
What Happens If You are Charged with a Felony?
In Illinois, you can be charged with 5 different kinds of felonies (other than first-degree murder).
These include:
- Class 4 Felony: A Class 4 felony is punishable by a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years.
- Class 3 Felony: A Class 3 felony is punishable by a prison sentence of 2 to 5 years.
- Class 2 Felony: A Class 2 felony is punishable by a prison sentence of 3 to 7 years.
- Class X Felony: A Class X felony is the most serious felony. You can go to jail for a maximum period of 30 years and pay $25,000 in fines.
- Class 1 Felony: A Class 1 felony is punishable by a prison sentence of 4 to 15 years.
- Class X Felony: A Class X felony is punishable by a prison sentence of 6-30 years.
- Class 3 Felony: A Class 3 felony can result in a prison sentence of 2 to 5 years.
- Class 4 Felony: This is the least serious felony. However, it can still result in a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years.
Besides serving a prison sentence, you will also be subject to a maximum fine of $25,000 under all 5 felonies. Additionally, sentencing can be of a longer-term of imprisonment called extended-term. Several aggravating factors can result in an extended-term of sentencing like for example prior criminal convictions. If you have been charged with a felony, seek legal help from a criminal defense lawyer at once.
Get Legal Help from a Criminal Defense Lawyer at Covert Marrero Covert LLP
Covert Marrero is a law firm that aims to provide its clients with compassionate legal counsel. Whether you need a criminal defense lawyer for a misdemeanor or a felony, we are here to help. Our defense attorneys make for aggressive advocates in the courtroom and ensure that you have the best defense in place. We have many years of experience in criminal defense and can help you fight for your rights. Nothing is more important to us than your peace of mind and you can trust our attorneys to work towards the best possible outcome against your charges. Contact us today at 630-717-2783 to schedule a free consultation at one of our offices located in Naperville, Schaumburg, or Warrenville.
