The personal cost of a criminal arrest and conviction can be far higher than you might realize. For example, you might think that a DUI or shoplifting arrest is not that big of a deal, because it is only a Class A misdemeanor, not a felony. However, the penalty for a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois is up to one year in county jail (or up to two years on probation) and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
You should also be aware that Illinois treats virtually all drug crimes as felonies. The penalty for the least-serious Class 4 felony is a fine of up to $25,000 and/or one to three years in state prison or, alternatively, up to 2.5 years on probation.
Any mark on your criminal record, even an arrest without a conviction, can follow you for years; it will turn up on any criminal background check and affect your opportunities for employment, education, and housing.
Ensuring that your civil rights are not violated.
Examining the circumstances of your arrest to determine if it was legally valid or not.
Investigating the charges and evidence against you to see if the prosecution has enough proof to convict you, or if we can turn up exonerating evidence.
Negotiating with the prosecutor to reduce or dismiss charges.
The most important thing to know about our firm is that we are seasoned and successful negotiators. This should be your primary concern because more than 9 out of 10 criminal cases in the US are resolved via plea bargaining rather than in front of a jury.
Problem Solvers. Some lawyers will listen to you for a few minutes and tell you there is nothing they can do to help you. We pride ourselves on taking a deeper look at your case and seeking a creative solution to whatever problem you bring us.
Investigators. We have the passion to investigate every detail of your case to compile facts and evidence for your defense and to reveal weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Communicators. We will speak openly and honestly with you about your case and what to expect in the legal process.
Assault – A heated dispute involving threats of physical violence but no physical contact.
Battery – A fistfight or physical attack with a weapon such as a knife or firearm.
Burglary – Entry into a building or vehicle with the intent to steal or commit a felony.
CDL violations – Speeding, overweight truck, violating an out-of-service order.
Domestic violence – Child endangerment, violation of an order of protection, or battery.
Driving under the influence (DUI) – Driving over the legal limit for alcohol, cannabis, or drugs.
Drugs – Possession, manufacture, or delivery of a controlled substance.
Robbery – Theft from a person by force or the threat of force.
Shoplifting or theft – Stealing merchandise from a retail store or stealing a bike from a park.
Traffic violations – Speeding, reckless writing, leaving the scene of an accident, etc.
Trespassing – Unauthorized entry of another person's land, building, or vehicle.
Weapons charges – Unlawful possession of a weapon, including FOID and CCL violations.
Do not face a criminal prosecution alone. We are dedicated to providing sound legal advice and a strong, persuasive defense against whatever the police and prosecutors may throw at you. Contact the Joliet office of McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC at 815-727-0100 for a free initial consultation. We serve clients facing criminal charges throughout Grundy County including Morris, Minooka, Verona, Aux Sable, Braceville, Channahon, Coal City, Dwight, Gardner, Kinsman, Mazon, and South Wilmington.