Illinois Felony and Misdemeanor Defense Attorney
Experienced Cook and DuPage County Criminal Defense Lawyer
When criminal charges are filed against you, possible jail time is really just one of your concerns. A felony or misdemeanor conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, such as your ability to obtain or maintain gainful employment; joining the military; or acceptance into an academic institution. It might have an affect your personal relationships as well. If you have been charged with a crime, you need to hire a lawyer who is experienced in Illinois criminal defense law and procedure.
Attorney Emilio Moretti has served clients in the Cook, DuPage, Will, and Kane Counties for 23 years and counting. He knows the law and court procedure, and has worked with local court personnel and gained their respect. He has experience handling cases involving, but not limited to:
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Charges
Generally, misdemeanors and felonies are both serious types of crimes. A conviction for either one will likely remain permanently on your criminal record and affect several aspects of your life. But, there are differences between the two.
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense, which is deemed less serious than a felony. In Illinois, misdemeanors are divided into three classes: A, B, and C.
A Class A misdemeanor is punishable up to 364 days in jail, and a fine of up to $2,500 or a combination of both. Common class A misdemeanors include but are not limited to: first or second DUI offense, retail theft, attempt, battery, domestic violence, driving on a suspended or revoked license, reckless driving, speeding in excess of 36 miles over the limit, and possession of 10 to 30 grams of cannabis.
A class B misdemeanor is punishable up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $1,500 or a combination of both. Common class B misdemeanors include: driving without a valid Illinois driver’s license, speeding 26-34 miles over the speeding limit, possession of over 2.5 to 10 grams of cannabis, and criminal trespass to real property.
A class C misdemeanor is punishable up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,500 or a combination of both. Common examples are: possession of 2.5 grams of cannabis or less, assault, and disorderly conduct.
Felony charges are more serious and can lead to multiple years in prison, larger fines, loss of voting privileges, and more. Felony charges are divided into five classes: X, 1, 2, 3, and 4. A Class X felony is the most serious felony charge and includes prison time ranging from 6 to 30 years, and a fine up to $25,000. Anyone convicted of a class X felony in Illinois cannot be sentenced to probation.
- A class 1 felony carries the possible penalty range of 4-15 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. For most class 1 felony charges, probation is allowed.
- A class 2 felony carries the possible penalty range of 3-7 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. Probation is allowed
- A class 3 felony carries the possible penalty range of 2-5 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. Probation is allowed.
- A class 4 felony carries the possible penalty range of 1-3 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. Probation is allowed.
The difference between jail for misdemeanors and prison for felonies is that jail time is usually served at a local or county jail, and prison time is served at a state-run facility.
Misdemeanors and felonies carry life-altering consequences. Either one it will likely stay on your criminal record for life. Some charges can be expunged or sealed, but certain restrictions and time limitations apply.
Cook and DuPage County Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney today. Contact Mr. Moretti, and get the respect and personal attention you deserve. He will work with you on an individual basis to review your case, plan a strategic defense plan, and fight for your rights. Call Moretti Law, P.C. at 312-861-1084 for your complimentary consultation today. Moretti Law, P.C. serves clients in Cook, DuPage, Will, and Kane Counties from offices in Chicago, Oak Brook, and Schaumburg.
312-861-1084
