Being charged with a felony is no joke; it’s a very serious matter and should be treated as such. As a defendant, it’s crucial to fully understand what’s considered a felony and what it entails because your life could change completely because of a felony charge.
In this piece, you’ll find what a felony is, how long you could be sentenced for one, and what your course of action should be. Keep on reading.
What’s A Felony?
A felony is a serious criminal offense; it differs from a misdemeanor, although accumulating multiple misdemeanors can lead to a felony charge. Felonies are serious crimes, punishable by over a year in prison.
Depending on what type of crime you’re being charged with, you may be eligible for probation. People charged with felony crimes need an excellent lawyer who’s an expert in felony cases and will fight for their freedom.
The State of Illinois separates felonies into certain classes and some examples are below:
- Murder has its own classification.
- Class X: Home invasion, aggravated criminal sexual assualt, aggravated battery of a child or with a firearm, aggravated kidnapping
- Class 1: Sexual assault, possession of certain drugs (depending on amounts), residential burglary, high-end theft
- Class 2: Aggravated domestic battery, robbery, kidnapping
- Class 3: Aggravated battery, theft with a certain amount, threatening a public official, reckless discharge of a firearm
- Class 4: Aggravated DUI, possession of a controlled substance, driving on a revoked license with priors
How Long Could A Sentence Be For A Felony Charge?
A sentence for a felony charge can permanently alter your life. The length of the sentence you’d have to complete varies depending on the crime you committed. These are some of the possible consequences of a felony charge:
- Murder: 20-60 years in prison
- Class X: 6-30 years in prison
- Class 1: 4-15 years in prison
- Class 2: 3-7 years in prison
- Class 3: 2-5 years in prison
- Class 4: 1-3 years in prison
Other serious repercussions for convicted felons could include losing their right to vote, being prohibited from serving on juries, losing their professional licenses, losing their right to legally obtain firearms and having trouble finding employment and housing.
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney In Illinois
My name is Courtney Anderson, and I’m an Illinois-licensed criminal defense attorney qualified to represent clients throughout central Illinois. I’ll take your case seriously and take all necessary steps to find the best course of action for your specific case. Stop searching for “Criminal defense lawyer near me“; I can help you evaluate your case.
I am experienced in criminal defense cases, and I have successfully defended many clients across Illinois. I am aware of how frightening the legal system can be. I approach each client and case with confidence, compassion, and respect. Contact me if you require assistance to deal with your felony charges.