Danville, Illinois Violent Crimes Attorney
Whenever an offense involves injuries or the threat of bodily harm, you can expect that the charges will be serious under Illinois criminal statutes. Most violent crimes are treated as felonies, which carry long prison terms and other penalties if you are convicted. Because these offenses are seen as a threat to the public, law enforcement aggressively investigates and pursues suspects. Prosecutors employ all available tools to convict, so legal representation is critical for your defense.
Our team at Patel Law, PC is ready to fight for your rights, as we have extensive experience and meticulous knowledge of violent crime laws. The prosecutor has a heavy burden to get a conviction, and we will apply our skills to all defense opportunities. Please contact us to set up a consultation with a Danville, Illinois violent crimes attorney who will advise you on your specific situation. Some background information about the relevant laws is also useful.
Things to Know About Violent Offenses
Many different statutes cover violent crimes, but the basic crime is any act in which a person uses force or threats upon a victim. We are prepared to aggressively defend your interests if you were arrested for:
- Homicide charges, including First and Second Degree Murder and Involuntary Manslaughter;
- Violent theft crimes, such as robbery;
- Kidnapping;
- Arson;
- Assault, which involves misconduct that puts another person in fear of suffering bodily harm; and,
- Battery, referring to acts that cause harm to another person OR amount to unwanted physical contact.
Assault and battery are often charged together because of the circumstances, but they are distinct offenses. With most violent crimes, there are also aggravated versions. The charges are elevated if the defendant used a weapon, caused severe bodily injury, or the victim was a child.
Overview of the Legal Process
Misdemeanor charges apply to some violent crimes, and the punishment will never be more than one year in jail. However, most violent crimes are felonies. A Class 3 Felony could include two to five years’ incarceration, while a Class X Felony is punishable by six to 30 years in prison.
Options for fighting the charges may include self-defense, defense of others, or proving that the victim’s perception of a threat was unreasonable. Plus, negotiating a plea bargain is often a wise approach. Patel Law, PC will advise you and assist with appropriate options. You can count on a Danville, Illinois violent crimes lawyer for help at different stages of the criminal process, including:
- Pre-arrest investigations;
- Arraignment and setting bond for pretrial release;
- Pretrial hearings and court appearances;
- Filing and defending motions;
- A trial on the merits; and,
- A sentencing hearing.
Set up a Consultation With a Danville, Illinois Violent Crimes Attorney Right Away
It is encouraging to know that defenses are available at various stages, but this information should convince you that legal help is necessary for navigating the criminal process. For additional details about how these cases work, please contact Patel Law, PC. We can schedule a confidential consultation with an Illinois violent crimes lawyer who can explain the concepts.
