Villadonga & Villadonga Provides Exceptional Legal Representation

In 2020, Streamwood recorded a crime rate of 95 according to the City Data’s crime index.

Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges in Streamwood, Illinois? The consequence of a criminal conviction on your record will negatively affect both your personal and professional life. Whether you or your loved one face a DUI, a traffic ticket, or felony criminal charges, our criminal defense attorneys in Streamwood are ready to construct an effective defense for you.

Villadonga & Villadonga is a seasoned law firm with more than 50 years of combined experience serving the suburbs of Chicago and surrounding counties of Lake, DuPage, and Kane. Our legal professionals will protect your legal rights and freedoms. If you are facing criminal charges, contact us immediately. We represent clients accused of all criminal offenses, including, but not limited to:

• Assault & Battery

• Disorderly Conduct

• Domestic Battery & Domestic Violence

• Driving on a Suspended License

• Driving Under The Influence (DUI)

• Drug Charges

• Felony Charges

• Gun Crimes

• Misdemeanors

• Sexual Abuse / Sexual Assault

• Sex Crimes

• Theft Crimes

• Traffic Violations

• Violent Crimes

Should you, a member of your family, or a friend find yourselves dealing with a police investigation or facing any criminal allegation, it’s crucial that you promptly contact our Illinois law firm. To receive your free case assessment, contact us today at 847-298-5740.

Understanding Crime Classifications in Illinois: Misdemeanors vs. Felonies

Defendants must understand the legal terminology used in Illinois criminal cases, especially words such as ‘misdemeanor’ and ‘felony.’ These terms define different categories of crimes and the potential consequences if found guilty. Under Illinois law, the punishments for misdemeanors and felonies vary greatly based on the crime’s severity. We’ll break down these two classifications for you to clarify their distinctions.

Illinois’ Criminal Offense Classifications

Misdemeanors: In Illinois, someone found guilty of a misdemeanor can expect a jail term of up 364 days in jail. Moreover, punishments may also include fines, probation, and/or mandated community service. Illinois divides misdemeanors into three distinct classifications:

Class A Misdemeanors. The most severe, with potential jail time at 364 days maximum and a fine of no more than $2,500.

Class B Misdemeanors. Moderate offenses, with jail time up to 6 months and a fine of up to $1,500.

Class C Misdemeanors. The least severe misdemeanors, with up to 30 days in jail and a fine up to $1,500.

Felonies: A felony conviction is a serious legal matter. A conviction could result in a sentence of several years to be served in a state prison. Felonies in Illinois are split into five different classes based on the severity of the crime:

Class X: Class X felonies are the most severely punished crimes. These crimes can result in lengthy prison sentences of 6-30 years, hefty fines, and other punishments. Some Class X offenses come with mandatory minimum prison sentences and a mandatory supervised release period after completion of the jail sentence. These crimes include: home invasion, aggravated battery with a firearm, and armed robbery.

Class 1: Class 1 felonies have a prison sentence of 4-15 years. There is a two year mandatory supervised release.

Class 2: Class 2 felonies carry a prison sentence of 3-7 years and can be extendable by 7-14 years.

Class 3: Class 3 felonies are punishable by up to 2-5 years in prison and one year mandatory supervised release.

Class 4: Class 4 felonies are punishable for 1-3 years in prison and one year of mandatory supervised release.

The Lasting Implications of Criminal Records

Misdemeanors: While misdemeanors may appear to be minor offenses, misdemeanors can cast a negative shadow over someone’s life. A misdemeanor conviction on one’s record can create barriers to employment, limit educational prospects, and even affect one’s ability to secure housing. Certain criminal offenses can also require public disclosure, especially those related to specific acts of sexual misconduct.

Felonies: The severe nature of felonies means that their consequences can deeply and persistently affect one’s life. Those with a felony conviction may lose essential civil rights, such as voting or possessing firearms. Furthermore, societal views on individuals with felony records can make it difficult to progress in professional careers.

The Illinois Criminal Justice Procedure

In Illinois, when someone faces criminal charges, they enter into the state’s criminal justice system. This system is structured to uphold the rights of the accused while aiming to ensure a just and equitable procedure for all defendants. Below is a concise outline of the criminal process in Illinois:

1. Arrest and Charge – If authorities reasonably believe someone has participated in or is about to commit a crime, they can make an arrest. Sometimes, this occurs due to an arrest warrant signed by a judge.

2. Initial Appearance – The accused must appear before the court following their arrest. At this hearing, the defendant is informed of the accusations against them. The court will assess the validity of the arrest. Then, the accused answers to the charges by pleading guilty or not guilty.

3. Bail – This is a set amount the accused can pay to be released from custody until trial. The judge, after considering factors like the nature of the crime, past offenses, and the accused’s ties to the community, sets the bail amount.

4. Preliminary Hearing or Grand Jury Review – For serious criminal charges, the evidence is either reviewed by a judge or presented to the grand jury. The grand jury’s role is to decide if there’s sufficient evidence to proceed with formal charges.

5. Formal Charging – Here, formal charges, also known as an indictment, are brought against the defendant.

6. Pre-Trial Motions and Plea Negotiations – Before the trial starts, both the defense and prosecution can submit certain requests or motions. They might also negotiate potential plea agreements.

7. Criminal Trial – The case will proceed to trial if no plea agreement is reached. The prosecution is responsible for proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty. If the judge or jury finds the defendant not guilty, they are released. If found guilty, the case proceeds to the sentencing stage.

8. Sentencing – At this stage, consequences are determined for the convicted individual. These could range from imprisonment or fines to probation or community service.

9. Appeal – If the defendant believes there were legal errors in the trial, they can file a written appeal to elevate their case to an appellate court.

Facing criminal charges demands a strong defense. The ramifications of a criminal conviction can affect your life permanently. Reach out to our firm for a complimentary consultation at 847-298-5740.

Contact Our Streamwood Criminal Defense Attorneys Today!

If you’ve been arrested in Streamwood, Illinois, seeking prompt legal representation is crucial to minimize potential negative consequences. Our attorneys at Villadonga & Villadonga aggressively represent people charged with a crime in Illinois, including traffic violations, misdemeanors, and felonies. Don’t hesitate to contact our Streamwood criminal defense attorneys today by calling 847-298-5740.