Alton Felony Defense Lawyer

Felony Defense Attorney in Alton, IL

Being charged with a felony in Illinois is a very serious matter, and the consequences can impact every aspect of your life. This includes your job, your home, your good name, and your freedom. If you have been accused of a violent crime, drug crime, or a property offense felony charge, it is essential to act quickly and talk with a knowledgeable Alton felony defense lawyer.

An Alton criminal defense lawyer can explain what you risk and advise you on the most advantageous legal approach, protecting your rights and your future.

Understanding Felony Charges in Illinois

A felony is a type of crime that is particularly severe in nature. In most jurisdictions, felony crimes are punishable by a prison sentence of at least one year. In Illinois, felony offenses are designated as Class 4 through Class X, ranging from least to most severe, and punishments increase based on the type and particulars of the crime. Felony convictions result in permanent criminal records and usually include long-term consequences, such as employment challenges and civil rights loss.

For example, a Class X felony like armed robbery or aggravated sexual assault can result in 6 to 30 years in prison. Extended-term sentences (aggravated) are 30 to 60 years. A Class 4 felony, like some kinds of theft or possession of a drug, would have lower prison sentences.

Penalties depend not only on class, but on the facts and circumstances of the alleged crime. Prior convictions, weapons, and physical injury to a victim can all enhance punishment. For this reason, it’s important to work with someone who knows how felony defense laws apply in your case.

Crime Rate in Alton, IL

Crime in Alton, Illinois, is not uncommon. The crime rate in the city is 40 per 1,000 inhabitants. In Alton, there is a 1 in 106 probability that you will experience a violent crime. The odds of being a victim of a property crime in Alton, IL are 1 in 33.

Building a Strong Defense

Each felony case presents different challenges, but defense teams have achieved success by questioning evidence collection methods and witness accounts or by demonstrating procedural errors.

Sometimes, in felony defense cases, it can be argued that the defendant did not have the intent to commit a crime or was acting in self-defense. Defense strategies sometimes produce improved case results because of flaws in the prosecution’s timeline and forensic evidence or their handling of the chain of custody.

About The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC

Felony charges in Alton are prosecuted through the Madison County Courthouse. The interactions and processes that exist between local attorneys and judiciary officials in the Madison County Courthouse can affect the direction of your case. Retaining an Alton Felony Defense Attorney familiar with this environment can give you a huge advantage.

As an Alton criminal defense lawyer, Jessica Koester invests herself completely in all cases to find essential facts that can redirect the trial’s outcome. From investigation through trial and beyond, she is unwavering in her commitment to protecting your rights and limiting the long-term consequences of felony charges.

Hire a Felony Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with a felony in Alton, IL, hire a felony defense lawyer at The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, today. Contact us today to begin fighting for your future.