
Criminal Defense Attorney in Collinsville, IL
Facing criminal charges can be an unsettling experience that leaves you uncertain about your future and what comes next. By working with a Collinsville criminal defense lawyer, you can fight your charges and work to secure an outcome that allows you to put the whole ordeal behind you. Often, the quality of your criminal defense attorney is one of the most important factors in determining the outcome of your case.
The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC: Trusted Criminal Defense Backed by Decades of Experience
Facing criminal charges does not mean that you will ultimately be convicted of a serious crime. The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, understands how imposing the criminal justice system can be. We’re here to assure you that our legal services can play a critical role in helping you secure a favorable outcome to your case, no matter how serious your charges are.
Our esteemed founder graduated from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, and went on to graduate from the University of Notre Dame Law School. After clerking with Lucco, Brown and Mudge, she focused her career on defending clients in and around Collinsville because she has a passion for protecting the rights and freedoms of defendants in Illinois.
Understanding Crime Statistics in Collinsville
Collinsville sees a wide range of crimes at both the state and federal levels. In 2021, Madison County reported 9,887 total offenses, including 11 murders, 112 rapes, and 44 robberies. There were 1,205 drug violations and 345 offenses related to drug equipment. Fraud was one of the most common offenses, with 1,759 total reports.
While the city remains relatively safe overall, neighborhoods such as Meadow Heights and the areas near Main Street and Beltline Road have experienced higher crime rates. By contrast, places like University Hills and Hollywood Heights tend to report fewer incidents. Those facing criminal charges in Collinsville are typically processed through the Madison County Jail, which is located in nearby Edwardsville, less than 10 miles away.
Experienced Trial Attorney
Get Started On Your Criminal Defense
Common Crimes in Collinsville, Illinois
Like other cities in Illinois, Collinsville sees its fair share of crime, ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Felony crimes in Collinsville include offenses like aggravated assault, burglary, robbery, and drug trafficking. Some of the most serious criminal charges anyone can face are murder or rape.
Drug-related crimes are a common occurrence in Collinsville. These offenses can range from possession to accusations of drug trafficking. When a crime involves actions that cross state lines or offenses that occur on public land, the defendant can face federal criminal charges.
Felony theft, including burglary and motor vehicle theft, is also common in certain neighborhoods. Areas such as Meadow Heights, Combs Heights, and the vicinity of State Street have seen higher levels of police activity related to felony arrests.
Why You Should Hire a Collinsville Criminal Defense Lawyer
One of the first steps you should take after being charged with a crime is to hire a criminal defense lawyer who focuses on handling criminal defense cases. The quality of your attorney can play a critical role in securing your freedom and clearing your name.
Collinsville criminal defense laws require prosecutors to prove that you committed a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Anything that shows the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof can position you for a favorable outcome and shield you from the most serious penalties under the law.
An attorney is more than a representative in court. They can investigate whether your rights were violated during your arrest or whether any witnesses’ testimony is inconsistent or credible.
FAQs
A: Retainer fees for criminal defense attorneys vary based on the severity of the charges and the attorney’s experience. For felony cases in Illinois, retainers often increase with complexity. The retainer acts as an upfront payment to secure representation and covers early case work. Some defense lawyers require a single flat fee as a condition of representation.
A: A criminal defense attorney plays a critical role in shaping the outcome of your case. They challenge evidence, file key motions, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare you for every step of the process. An experienced lawyer can often reduce charges or penalties or even get a case dismissed entirely. The more serious the charges, the more essential it is to have a skilled advocate on your side who understands how to chip away at the prosecution’s case.
A: In most cases, the defendant or their family pays for a private criminal defense lawyer. Payment terms vary based on how experienced the criminal defense attorney is and how long they have practiced law. Some lawyers require full payment upfront, while others accept retainers followed by additional billing based on an hourly rate.
A: Many criminal defense lawyers offer payment plans, especially for serious felony matters that require ongoing legal work. These plans often start with a retainer and continue with scheduled payments based on the progress of the case. If you have concerns about how you will afford legal representation, it may well be worth asking about fees and payment options. Attorneys are used to these types of questions and should have clear and helpful advice and answers.
Protect Your Rights and Future by Contacting The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, Today
A criminal charge is more than an accusation. If you are found guilty of a crime, you can face immediate and life-altering consequences that could include the loss of your freedom and serious reputational harm. For decades, The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, has provided exceptional legal services to defendants in Collinsville.
Our founding attorney understands how to scrutinize the evidence used against you and look for missteps by police that could lead to a favorable outcome. No case is too complicated for our trial-ready legal team. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation so we can begin mounting a defense that gets results.