Illinois Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Lawyer

Serving Champaign, Urbana, Danville and Decatur & More

If you’ve been injured by the negligence of another, or if you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime, then you are in a situation where it is critical to get the help of an experienced legal professional. Whether attempting to hold others accountable for the harm they’ve inflicted on you and recover compensation for the damages you’ve incurred, or if you are trying desperately to defend yourself against criminal charges and stay out of jail, an Illinois personal injury & criminal defense lawyer at Patel Law, PC is here for you with the advice and representation you need to achieve your goals. In Champaign County and central Illinois, Patel Law is the right law firm for you.

The Experience You Need to Defend Your Rights

Patel Law’s founding attorney Baku Patel has been practicing law in central Illinois for nearly 30 years and is highly experienced in both personal injury and criminal defense. Mr. Patel began his legal career in the United States Navy as an officer in the Navy Judge Advocate General Corps, where he served as both a JAG Corps prosecutor and defense attorney. Mr. Patel then served stints as a criminal prosecutor for the United States and Illinois governments, first as a federal prosecutor and trial attorney with the Federal Trade Commission and then as a senior prosecutor in the State’s Attorney’s office in both Champaign and Vermillion counties. Turning to criminal defense, Mr. Patel served as the Chief Public Defender of Vermilion County, where he was certified by the state as lead defense counsel in death penalty cases. Mr. Patel brings this wealth of experience to his private civil and criminal defense practice at Patel Law, PC. No stranger to the courtroom, Mr. Patel and his team are ready to serve your needs and help you reach your goals inside and outside of court, whichever serves you best.

One of the Most Experienced Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers You’ll Find

Patel Law attorney Baku Patel defends people charged with Illinois misdemeanor and felony offenses, from shoplifting and DUI to murder. Mr. Patel has extensive experience in the field of federal criminal law as well, including federal charges involving drugs, guns, and various forms of fraud. Having taken over 150 trials to verdict, Mr. Patel is one of the most experienced criminal law attorneys you will find in central Illinois. As a person accused of a crime, you could be facing the loss of your liberty, shockingly expensive fines, restrictions on your freedom, and damage to your reputation that can adversely affect where you live, where you work, and your standing in the community. Any criminal charge should be taken seriously. Before you talk to the police or prosecutors, before you call a family member or bail bond company, call Patel Law, PC for essential advice and to put yourself in a position for the best outcome in your case.

Common Criminal Charges

A criminal charge, even a misdemeanor, can follow you for years. A felony conviction can impact your ability to work, vote, possess a firearm, or secure housing. At Patel Law, PC, we take criminal charges seriously and build strong defenses to protect your rights and future. Our firm defends clients across a wide range of criminal cases, including:

DUI and traffic offenses
Drug possession and distribution
Theft and burglary
Assault and battery
Domestic violence
Weapons charges
White collar crimes
Juvenile offenses
Violent crimes and homicide

Every criminal case begins with a presumption of innocence. We challenge evidence, question police procedures, and explore every legal option to reduce or dismiss charges. Our lead attorney, Baku N. Patel, is a former prosecutor who knows how the system works and how to strategically defend clients at every stage of the process. Whether through negotiation or trial, we fight to protect your record and your future.

In Illinois, penalties for criminal offenses vary widely based on the charge, your history, and the facts of your case. A first-time DUI, for example, can carry license suspension, fines, and jail time. A drug felony can lead to years in prison. However, many cases can be resolved through pretrial diversion, probation, or dismissal. We evaluate each case individually and tailor our approach to your specific needs and goals.

Illinois Criminal Defense FAQs

What should I do if I’m arrested or charged with a crime in Illinois?
Stay silent, ask for an attorney, and contact Patel Law, PC immediately. Don’t speak to police or prosecutors without legal representation.

Can I be charged with a felony for a first-time offense in Illinois?
Yes. Many crimes, including drug possession, theft, or aggravated battery, can be charged as felonies even for first-time offenders.

What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Illinois?
Misdemeanors carry up to 364 days in jail, while felonies are punishable by at least one year in prison and often carry much more severe consequences.

How can Patel Law, PC help if I’m facing DUI charges?
We examine police conduct, field sobriety results, and breath or blood tests to challenge the case, seek dismissal or reduction, or negotiate alternatives to jail.

What happens at my first court appearance in a criminal case?
The court will inform you of your charges, set bail, and schedule your next court date. It’s important to have an experienced defense lawyer by your side from the start.

Can a criminal conviction be expunged or sealed in Illinois?
In many cases, yes. Patel Law, PC can assess whether your record qualifies for expungement or sealing under Illinois law.

What are my rights if the police searched my home or car without a warrant?
You may have grounds to challenge the search. Unlawful searches can result in evidence being thrown out and charges being reduced or dismissed.

What’s the penalty for drug possession in Illinois?
It depends on the type and amount. Possession of controlled substances can lead to felony charges, while cannabis possession penalties vary by quantity.

Will I go to jail for a first-time criminal offense?
Not necessarily. Patel Law, PC explores all legal options, including diversion programs, probation, plea deals, or dismissal, to avoid incarceration whenever possible.

Why should I choose Patel Law, PC to defend my criminal case?
With a background as a former prosecutor and years of trial experience, Baku N. Patel and his team understand the system from both sides and are committed to aggressively protecting your rights.

An Illinois Personal Injury Attorney With a Record of Success You Can Count on

Patel Law, PC has recovered tens of millions of dollars in compensation for accident and injury victims in central Illinois. Our trial skills and experience make us a formidable force in the courtroom, which also enables us to settle cases for maximum compensation without going to trial. Our personal injury and wrongful death law practice covers a range of civil negligence claims from auto and truck accidents to dog bites and nursing home abuse. While you focus on recovering your health and getting your life back in order, we are busy proving the other party’s negligence and their liability to you for the full amount of legal damages you have suffered. Insurance companies want to settle cheaply or wriggle out of liability by disputing the injury or shifting the blame for the accident. We know the law and have a record of success in holding negligent actors and their insurers liable for the losses and harm inflicted on innocent people.

Common Injuries

If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Personal injury law in Illinois allows victims to seek damages when an accident is caused by another party’s carelessness, recklessness, or intentional actions. At Patel Law, PC, we have represented clients in a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

Car and truck accidents
Motorcycle accidents
Pedestrian and bicycle injuries
Slip, trip, and fall incidents
Dog bites
Medical malpractice
Nursing home abuse and neglect
Construction and workplace accidents
Wrongful death

Even a minor injury can lead to mounting medical bills, time off work, and emotional stress. More severe injuries may result in permanent disability, long-term treatment, or loss of life. Our firm fights to hold negligent individuals, businesses, and insurance companies accountable. We conduct thorough investigations, work with medical experts, and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, meaning you must file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can cost you the opportunity to recover damages. If you have been injured, it is crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Illinois Personal Injury FAQs

What should I do immediately after being injured in an accident in Illinois?
Seek medical attention, report the incident, take photos if possible, and contact Patel Law, PC to protect your rights and preserve evidence.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Illinois?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit under Illinois’ statute of limitations. Some exceptions may apply, so it’s important to act quickly.

What damages can I recover in an Illinois personal injury case?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and future care needs.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Illinois follows modified comparative negligence—you can still recover compensation if you’re less than 50% at fault, but your recovery is reduced by your share of fault.

Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company offered me a settlement?
Yes. Insurance companies often offer low settlements. Patel Law, PC can review the offer and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Can I sue for emotional distress after a car accident in Illinois?
Yes, emotional distress is considered a form of non-economic damage and can be recovered in a personal injury claim.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney at Patel Law, PC?
We handle injury cases on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.

What types of personal injury cases does your firm handle?
Patel Law, PC handles car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle crashes, slip and falls, dog bites, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, and more throughout Illinois.

How long will my personal injury case take to resolve?
The timeline varies, but many cases settle in 6–18 months. Complex or disputed cases may take longer, especially if they go to trial.

Can I sue if I was injured on public property in Illinois?
Yes, but special rules apply when suing a government entity. You must act quickly and follow the Illinois Court of Claims process or local notice rules.

Serving Clients with Compassion and Commitment

At Patel Law, PC, we understand how serious and life-changing both personal injury and criminal defense matters can be. Based in Illinois, our firm offers strong, client-focused representation to those injured through no fault of their own, as well as individuals facing criminal charges that can threaten their freedom and future. Whether you are recovering from an accident or fighting for your rights in court, our team brings aggressive advocacy, extensive legal experience, and deep knowledge of Illinois law to every case. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of an injury or a criminal accusation, you need a legal team that listens, responds, and delivers results. Our office takes pride in standing up for people when it matters most, providing honest advice, tough advocacy, and personalized support every step of the way. We treat each case with the attention and urgency it deserves.

If you or a loved one is facing a personal injury or criminal law issue in Illinois, contact Patel Law, PC today for a free consultation.

Patel Law Is Here to Help

With offices in Urbana, Decatur and Danville, Patel Law, PC serves clients throughout central Illinois, including all of Champaign, Vermilion and Macon counties. Call us for a free consultation to discuss your legal needs so you can receive advice that you can use and immediate assistance protecting your rights and getting the best result possible. You might be facing the most difficult situation in your life, which is why you need a skilled and experienced Champaign personal injury & criminal lawyer who is on your side and dedicated to helping you reach your goals. Call Patel Law, PC today.

Illinois Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you are facing legal challenges that affect your rights, you need the most experienced attorney you can find. We try cases and get results.

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