630-584-4800

630-584-4800

Downers Grove, IL Criminal Defense Lawyers

Goostree Law Group

"Jeff Muntz was steady, practical, and clear throughout my case..."

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Attorneys for Misdemeanor and Felony Criminal Charges in Downers Grove, Illinois

When you have been arrested, you may not know what will happen next, what rights you have, how your case will be handled in criminal courts, or the steps you can take to resolve the matter. Following a criminal conviction, you may be required to pay large fines, and you could be incarcerated. Other penalties may include probation, community service, or restitution. You will have a permanent record that could affect issues such as employment and housing. When your freedom and your future are on the line, you will want to make sure you have a skilled legal representative in your corner.

At Goostree Law Group, our lawyers represent people in Downers Grove who are facing criminal charges. We are committed to protecting our clients' constitutional rights and helping them achieve the best possible outcomes in their cases. Whether you are facing a first-time misdemeanor charge or a serious felony accusation, we will stand by your side, advocate for your interests, and help you resolve your case successfully.

Misdemeanor Offenses in Illinois

Misdemeanor offenses carry multiple types of serious consequences, including jail sentences, fines, community service, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Categories of misdemeanors in Illinois include:

  • Class A Misdemeanors: These offenses carry a potential sentence of up to one year in jail and/or fines as high as $2,500. Examples include aggravated assault, battery, theft of property valued under $500, and first-time DUI.
  • Class B Misdemeanors: These offenses carry a potential sentence of up to 180 days in jail and/or fines as high as $1,500. Examples include trespassing and possession of small amounts of certain controlled substances.
  • Class C Misdemeanors: This is the least serious category of misdemeanor, and it includes offenses such as simple assault or disorderly conduct. The penalties may include up to 30 days in jail and/or fines as high as $1,500.

Call 630-584-4800 and let us help your family.

  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • DuPage County Bar Association
  • Kane County Bar Association
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Attorney Spotlight

Goostree Law Group

Jeffrey D. Muntz

  • Best Lawyers, Ones to Watch, 2023 - Present
  • Elite Lawyer, 2018 - Present
  • "10 Best" for Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • "10 Best" for Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
  • Leading Lawyers, Emerging Lawyers, 2016
  • Lead Counsel Rated

Felony Offenses in Illinois

Felony charges are the most serious category of criminal offenses. Convictions can lead to prison sentences of one year or more, heavy fines, and multiple types of collateral consequences. Categories of felonies include:

  • Class 4 Felonies: The least serious felony classification has a sentencing range of one to three years in prison. Examples include theft of property valued less than $500 when property is taken directly from a person and possession of certain amounts of controlled substances.
  • Class 3 Felonies: These offenses can result in prison sentences lasting from two to five years. Examples include aggravated battery, theft of property valued between $500 and $10,000, and certain weapons offenses.
  • Class 2 Felonies: These offenses carry a sentencing range of three to seven years. Examples include robbery, third-time DUI, and certain drug offenses.
  • Class 1 Felonies carry a sentencing range of four to 15 years. Examples include criminal sexual assault, aggravated robbery, residential burglary, and certain drug trafficking offenses.
  • Class X Felonies are the most serious offenses in Illinois, and they can result in sentences ranging from six to 30 years. Armed robbery and aggravated criminal sexual assault are examples of Class X felony offenses.

Diversion Programs in Illinois

For some people, Illinois courts may offer diversion programs that will allow criminal cases to be resolved without a conviction. In some cases, a person may be sentenced to court supervision. If they successfully complete the supervision period while meeting requirements such as paying fines, completing community service, or attending counseling, the charges will be dismissed. Supervision may not be available for all offenses, and prior convictions may affect a person's eligibility.

Deferred prosecution programs may be available for eligible defendants, including those who have been charged with certain non-violent offenses. In these cases, the prosecution of the case is paused while the defendant completes a set of requirements, such as community service, substance abuse treatment, or restitution. Upon successful completion, the charges will be dismissed.

In some drug crime cases, a person may be eligible for drug court, which may help them address substance abuse issues while avoiding a criminal conviction. Some first-time drug offenders may also be eligible for probation that will allow them to resolve their cases while preventing them from having a conviction on their record. When participating in these programs, a person may be under ongoing supervision by courts and parole or probation officers, and they may need to receive treatment and meet other requirements.

Our lawyers help clients understand whether they qualify for diversion programs. We will advocate for solutions that will help clients avoid criminal convictions and other ongoing issues related to arrests and criminal charges.

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Expungement and Sealing of Criminal Records

A criminal record can follow a person long after a case has been resolved. It can create obstacles that may affect employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Some people can take steps to clear their criminal records or limit access to information about arrests and convictions.

Expungement may be available in some cases, and it will result in the deletion or destruction of criminal records. A person may be eligible to expunge records related to cases that did not result in a conviction or charges that were dismissed. Not all records are eligible for expungement. Convictions generally cannot be expunged unless they involved certain minor offenses.

In situations where expungement is not available, a person may qualify for record sealing. This will not destroy records, but it will restrict who can access them. Sealed records are not visible to most employers, landlords, or members of the public, but they may be accessed by law enforcement officials, courts, and certain government agencies. Some convictions may be eligible for sealing after waiting periods.

Our attorneys can evaluate a client's criminal history and determine what forms of relief may be available. We can provide legal guidance and representation during the expungement or record sealing process, and we will advocate for solutions that will help our clients receive the fresh starts they deserve.

Contact Our Downers Grove Criminal Defense Attorneys

At Goostree Law Group, we can provide the legal representation you need when you are facing criminal charges. We will advise you of your rights and options, and we will help you take the proper steps to resolve your case successfully. Contact our Downers Grove, IL misdemeanor and felony defense lawyers at 630-584-4800 to set up a free consultation.

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