Urbana Violent Crimes Lawyer
Acts of violence always place at least one other person at risk, which is why violent crimes are considered some of the most serious in Urbana and throughout Illinois. Violent crimes are almost always charged as felony offenses, as they typically involve the use of force or threat of force against someone else.
Even just an accusation of theft against you can be enough to damage your reputation and ruin your personal relationships. On the other hand, a conviction will bring even more devastating consequences, including a potential life sentence. Our Urbana violent crimes lawyer can protect your future by helping you avoid these negative impacts.
Common Violent Crimes
Violent crimes throughout Urbana come in many different shapes and forms. The penalties vary widely. Not only is the nature of the crime taken into consideration, but also the defendant’s criminal history and the full impact on the victim. Some of the most common violent crimes in Urbana include:
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Kidnapping: Secretly confining another person against their will, or taking them from one place to another while using force, or threatening force, is considered kidnapping. Kidnapping is usually a Class 2 felony, but when aggravating factors are present, such as if a deadly weapon was used, the offense can be upgraded to a Class X felony. Class 2 felonies are punishable by between three and seven years in prison, while a Class X felony can carry a sentence between six to thirty years in prison.
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Robbery: Robbery involves taking another person’s property while using force, or the threat of force. Usually a Class 2 felony punishable by three to seven years, it can be upgraded to a Class X felony if a firearm was used, punishable by six years to life in prison.
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Murder: Murder involves the intentional taking of another person’s life. Murder is divided into first and second degrees in Illinois, and sentences for those convicted will largely depend on the circumstances surrounding the case.
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Manslaughter: Like murder, manslaughter involves taking another person’s life. Unlike murder, though, manslaughter is not intentional. Manslaughter is usually a Class 3 felony with a sentence between two and five years in prison, but it can be upgraded to a Class 2 felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison.
Defenses to Violent Crimes
It may seem as though there is little hope after you are charged with a violent crime. Fortunately, there are many defenses available. If the police did not follow proper procedure, such as informing you of your rights or failing to obtain a warrant, this could allow important evidence against you to be thrown out. Additionally, you may have been acting in self-defense while using reasonable force, or an eyewitness may have mistakenly identified you.
Contact Our Violent Crimes Lawyer in Urbana Right Away
If you have been charged with a violent crime, there is no time to waste. The prosecution is already building its case against you, and you need an Urbana violent crimes lawyer to create a strong case for you, too. At Patel Law, PC, our experienced attorney will be there throughout the entire process and offer honest and practical counsel while defending you against your charges. Call us now at 217.384.1111 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
