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Are you facing accusations of violent crimes in Illinois? Have you been charged with robbery, sexual assault, or murder? In such cases, consider getting help from a violent crime lawyer. Chicago courts take violent offenses very seriously, and the consequences can have long-lasting effects on your future.
You may face prison time if you are convicted of a violent crime. Moreover, the criminal charges may stay on your record permanently and prevent access to employment and housing opportunities. It could also impact your personal relationships. For these reasons, securing legal counsel can be essential for your case.
The attorney you choose can affect the outcome of your case. Therefore, choosing the right one is crucial. At the Hirsch Law Group, we have experience defending clients facing violent crime charges in federal and state courts, and we want to help you too.
Our Chicago criminal lawyers understand the legal implications of several crimes. Regardless of your situation, we work to protect your rights.
Violent crimes involve physical violence or threats of violence against a person. You may face even harsher punishment if you commit such criminal acts using a weapon.
There are several types of violent crimes. But, some of the most common ones prosecuted in Chicago include:
Robbery: It refers to the act of taking someone’s property by using force or threat of violence. Robbery is a Class 2 felony with a penalty of three to seven years imprisonment. Using a firearm is armed robbery which is a Class X felony. A conviction for armed robbery attracts a penalty of six to thirty years in prison.
Kidnapping: It means intentionally confining a person against their will by using violence. This is a Class 2 felony with a penalty of three to seven years in prison. You could face six to thirty years in prison if certain aggravating factors are present.
Assault: It is the act of engaging in violent conduct that puts someone in fear of receiving battery. An aggravated assault against certain protected persons is a Class 3 felony. The sentence for a Class 3 felony conviction is two to five years in prison and may include fines of up to $25,000.
Murder: It refers to the intentional act of killing someone. First-degree murder offenses are grave, and a conviction could lead to life imprisonment. Second-degree murder is a Class 1 felony punishable by four to twenty years in prison.
Manslaughter: It is the unintentional killing of a person without legal justification. It is termed as reckless homicide if it involves the use of a vehicle. Both offenses are a Class 3 felony with a penalty of two to five years in prison.
Domestic Violence: It refers to carrying out violent acts against a family member or spouse. A domestic battery may be upgraded to a Class 4 felony if you have a criminal history of certain prior convictions. Class 4 felonies are punishable by one to three years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines. A domestic violence defense lawyer from the Hirsch Law Group can help if you face domestic abuse charges.
Getting arrested for any of the above violent offenses may be devastating. Our skilled attorneys understand the laws covering various criminal offenses. With our experience in handling violent crime cases, we can help you represent your case.
The penalties for a violent crimes conviction may vary depending on the following factors:
The type of crime committed
The nature of the offense
The level of harm inflicted
Criminal history of prior violent crime convictions
The age of the victim
Whether the victim belonged to a vulnerable category
Whether the offense took place on public property or in a public place
The penalties for violent crime convictions in Chicago usually include prison time and hefty fines. It may include probation, community service, and a criminal record. A judge may issue a protective order in cases of domestic violence. Not only will you face extreme restrictions to your movement, but you may also be removed from your family home in such cases.
You may also be ordered to register as a sexual offender if sexual assault was involved. The victim may bring a personal injury claim against you, requiring you to pay damages. The amount may range from a thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
If you were accused of a violent crime, consider seeking the help of criminal defense lawyers. They can help you avoid the negative consequences of a conviction.
Most violent crimes in Illinois are prosecuted as a felony. The stakes are high in criminal cases. A police officer will use anything you say to prove you are guilty. Whether innocent or guilty, speaking to the police without consulting a lawyer may not be in your best interests. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer may be a good idea in such cases. They can:
Be present during questioning by the investigating authorities and can provide legal advice.
Analyze your case and the criminal charges leveled against you.
Conduct investigations and obtain evidence to help your case.
Assess the evidence against you and inform you of available options.
Help you avoid conviction through alternative options.
Work with you on your case and provide an aggressive legal defense.
Provide quality representation at your hearings and during the trial.
Negotiate with the prosecutors for a plea bargain to reduce your sentence.
If you were charged with a violent crime, you might benefit from the assistance of a skilled violent crimes lawyer.
The possibility of spending a part or even the rest of your life in prison is overwhelming. No matter the type of violent crime charges you are facing, attorneys from the Hirsch Law Group can help. Our lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to handle your case. We can build a strong defense strategy in your favor.
At the Hirsch Law Group, we are not afraid to fight on your behalf. Our attorneys help several clients facing criminal charges. We have thorough criminal law knowledge and are familiar with the Illinois criminal justice system. We can provide sound legal advice to you at every stage of the process.
For more information on how we can help, contact our law office today for a free initial consultation.
