
Criminal Defense Attorney in Granite City, IL
Being charged with a crime can be a life-altering ordeal that leaves you uncertain about what comes next and what options you have. A conviction can lead to the loss of your freedom and harm to your reputation. Many defendants in Granite City rely on the legal services of a Granite City criminal defense lawyer to handle their criminal defense cases. With strong representation, you can fight your charges and reduce your risk of facing serious penalties.
Unwavering Criminal Defense When It Matters Most
The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, represents clients in serious, high-stakes, and felony cases at both the state and federal levels. Our dedicated defense firm brings decades of experience helping clients in Granite City navigate complex criminal cases with favorable outcomes. Many of our clients come to us after being charged with a serious felony or federal criminal charge.
Our founding attorney is admitted to practice in Illinois, Missouri, and multiple federal courts. As a member of the Illinois State Bar Association and other prominent legal associations, she stays up to date with the latest criminal defense strategies and investigation techniques, so her clients always benefit from the latest legal developments that could help their cases.
Understanding Crime Statistics in Granite City
Granite City remains a relatively safe city, although it still sees its fair share of criminal activity. Local residents face approximately a 1 in 37 chance of experiencing a violent or property crime each year.
Crime rates vary significantly by neighborhood, with areas like Nameoki, Pontoon Beach, and the Downtown district reporting different levels of criminal activity. The southwest side shows notably higher property crime rates, with an average of around 124 incidents annually.
In contrast, the east side remains relatively safer.
Across the state in 2023, aggravated assaults made up 48.6% of all violent crimes, making them the most common violent offense in Illinois. Local criminal cases in Granite City are typically handled at the Madison County Criminal Courthouse, which serves as the central venue for prosecuting both felony and misdemeanor charges.
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Common Crimes in Granite City
Crimes in Granite City generally fall into violent and non-violent categories. Common non-violent crimes include DUIs that do not result in injuries, theft, and white-collar crimes. Although many non-violent crimes are classified as misdemeanors, this is not always the case.
Many defendants in Granite City find themselves facing more serious felony charges, which could include aggravated assaults, murder, drug trafficking, and other serious offenses. Defending clients against felony charges requires a strategic approach that scrutinizes the evidence used by prosecutors and questions statements made by witnesses. Anyone convicted of a felony could face lengthy prison sentences.
Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing serious criminal charges in Illinois, one of the most important steps you can take is to hire a criminal defense lawyer who understands Granite City criminal defense laws and knows how to help clients secure favorable outcomes in their cases.
A criminal defense attorney can review your case to see whether law enforcement violated your rights by pulling you over without a reason or searching your home or another property without a warrant.
Any evidence that was unlawfully gathered could be ruled inadmissible in court. The attorney’s primary role is to defend your rights, challenge weak or unlawful prosecution tactics, and seek a favorable outcome based on the circumstances of your case.
FAQs
A: The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Illinois varies based on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial, among other factors. For high-level felony or federal charges, fees are typically higher due to the extensive time and preparation required to defend a client. Most attorneys provide a consultation to evaluate your case and explain the cost of legal representation.
A: A Granite City criminal defense attorney may handle a wide range of serious felony cases, which could include violent crimes, drug trafficking, weapons charges, sex offenses, and white-collar crimes, among others. These cases often carry long-term consequences that could include mandatory prison time. A seasoned lawyer can help by building a strong defense and guiding clients through the complexities of the criminal justice process.
A: If you are facing serious felony charges, look for an attorney with decades of criminal defense experience and a record of success in high-stakes cases. Your lawyer should be well-versed in constitutional protections like the Fourth Amendment and capable of filing motions to suppress any evidence that was unlawfully collected. If necessary, they should be prepared to present your case at trial.
A: After being charged with a felony in Illinois, you will be booked and required to appear in court. Your defense attorney can then begin investigating to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. For many defendants, early intervention is critical. By the time charges are brought, prosecutors have typically spent considerable time gathering evidence to support their case.
Protect Your Future With Representation From The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC
There may be no guarantees in the criminal justice system, but having the right attorney can make all the difference. At The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, we represent clients facing the most serious felony and federal charges. Backed by decades of experience, we build strategic, trial-ready defenses for high-stakes criminal cases across Illinois.
Our founding attorney is admitted to practice in Illinois, Missouri, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court. If you are under investigation or facing charges in Granite City or beyond, contact our office today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer who is ready to protect your rights and your future.