CRIMINAL DEFENSE

If you are arrested and charged with the commission of a crime, your personal liberty may be at risk. If you are not indigent, you will be required to either represent yourself or obtain a private attorney. Illinois criminal law and criminal procedure are complex laws that govern the criminal justice process. Illinois laws are generally classified, in order of severity, as felonies, misdemeanors, or petty offenses. Each general classification contains sub-classifications established by the legislature and based upon the nature of the crime. In general, petty offenses are punishable by a fine only. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year of incarceration in the county jail. Felonies are punishable by more than one year of incarceration in the State Penitentiary.

If you are arrested for either a felony or misdemeanor, your liberty is at risk. Obtain legal counsel to represent your interests.

Preliminary Do’s and Don’ts

DO:

• Contact an attorney as soon as possible.
• Be courteous to the police officer(s) arresting you
• Let you family and friends know where you are going to be processed by the police
• Ask to speak to an attorney immediately and repeat this request when necessary
• Cooperate with the police during the arrest process (fingerprinting, photographs, etc.)

DON’T:

• Do not speak to the police about the alleged crime.
• Do not provide any oral or written statements to anyone

In a criminal prosecution, the burden is on the States Attorney to prove that a crime was committed and you committed it. Do not assist the State Attorney by giving him or her evidence against you in for form of information, statements, or any communication regarding the allegations against you.

Although you are understandably in an embarrassing situation, follow these preliminary recommendations and contact an attorney to provide you with the best defense available. Your freedom may depend on it.