Felony Defense Lawyers in Waukegan, IL
At DLP, our lawyers have extensive experience with the Lake County Court system. We concentrate on defending the rights of people accused of every type of crime from minor infractions to the most serious felonies. As Lake County’s top criminal lawyer and a former state’s attorney, Elliot A. Pinsel compliments Geoffrey M. Wexler’s extensive experience of criminal law as well as Richard C. Daniels’ background as both a former public defender and criminal lawyer.
Our long history in Lake County, as well as our experience as both direct agents of the court and as private lawyers, gives us a special advantage in understanding how to deal aggressively with the legal system, while maintaining the highest standards of law in a compassionate and affordable defense to save the rights of our clients. We represent clients in areas such as:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
- Drunk driving
- Traffic violations
- Assault
- Battery
- Burglary
- Domestic violence
- Kidnapping
- Arson
- White-collar offenses
- Juvenile matters
- Drugs and narcotics charges
- Computer crimes
- Sex offenses
Do call DLP or have someone call for you as soon as you have a problem that may involve the police.
Don’t provide the police with any information other than your name and address if you are arrested unless your lawyer is present and approves what you say.
Don’t say anything if your lawyer instructs you to remain silent. Let your lawyer do the talking for you, no matter how hard it may be to resist the urge to speak.
Don’t sign anything, no matter what it is, without a lawyer being present.
Don’t agree to participate in a police identification line-up or any other procedure without your attorney being present.
Don’t lie to your lawyer or to the police if you chose to talk to them.
These tips are suggestions as how to act if arrested. These tips, however, are not intended to be direct legal advice and are not intended to substitute for consultation with one of our lawyers.
Felony Charge FAQs in Lake County, IL
What is the process after a felony arrest?
After an arrest, you’ll typically have a first court appearance where charges are read and release conditions are set. The case then moves through a preliminary hearing or a grand jury indictment, followed by arraignment, where you enter a plea. Pretrial motions, negotiations, and possibly a trial come after that. Each stage has its own deadlines, so having a lawyer from the beginning matters.
What’s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Illinois?
Felonies carry prison time and are classified from Class 4, the least serious, up to Class X, the most serious. Misdemeanors are classified from Class C to Class A and carry jail time of up to one year. Felony convictions also bring longer-lasting consequences, such as firearm restrictions and difficulty finding certain jobs. The exact sentencing ranges are set by statute, so confirm them with a lawyer.
Can I get released on bail after a felony arrest?
Illinois no longer uses cash bail in most cases. Instead, judges decide whether you can be released with conditions. The court considers factors like the seriousness of the charge, your record, and whether you pose a safety risk or a flight risk. In some serious cases, the State can ask the court to hold you before trial. A lawyer can argue for your release and propose conditions that address the court’s concerns.
Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It’s possible in some cases, through plea negotiations with the prosecutor. The chances depend on the facts, the strength of the evidence, your record, and the local prosecutor’s practices. Outcomes vary, and no lawyer can promise a reduced charge. A lawyer can evaluate the evidence and make the case for a reduction when it’s justified.
What happens if I’m convicted of a felony?
Possible outcomes include prison, probation, or other conditions, depending on the class and your history. A felony conviction can also affect voting rights while you’re incarcerated or on parole, your ability to own a firearm, professional licenses, housing, and job prospects. Some of these consequences can be reduced or limited later, depending on the case and the sentence.
Should I talk to the police before I call a lawyer?
No. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you’re telling the truth or explaining what happened. You’re entitled to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. Give the police your name and address if asked, and then request a lawyer. Calling a lawyer first helps protect your rights from the start.