Downers Grove Criminal Defense Lawyer

Attorney for Felonies & Misdemeanors Serving DuPage County

Few things are more stressful than being prosecuted for a criminal offense. Whether the offense you are charged with is a misdemeanor or a felony, odds are, you could face some jail time if your case does not go well. There is incredible uncertainty in how this case could impact your future even if you avoid jail time. It can be nerve-wracking while your case is pending. This is why it is so important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney there to advocate for you at every stage in your case. A lawyer can take steps to protect your constitutional rights and to reduce or eliminate the impact this case could have on your life overall.

Appelman Law LLC is a firm of highly experienced criminal defense attorneys. Our lawyers are practiced in employing a wide range of different criminal defense strategies in order to offer our clients the best odds of a favorable outcome. You could have a defense you do not know about, or be eligible for a special court-supervised behavioral health program in lieu of conviction. Our attorneys will begin your case by carefully going through all the relevant evidence as we seek out your ideal defense.

DUI and Traffic Crime Lawyers

Some traffic offenses, like driving on a suspended license or reckless driving, are a fair bit more serious than a speeding ticket. These are both generally misdemeanor crimes that carry potential jail time.

A DUI is a fair bit more serious than either, especially if you have prior DUI convictions or if there was an aggravating circumstance, such as a traffic accident.

Drug Crime Attorneys in Naperville

Drug charges can be rather minor or extremely serious depending on the specific charge. Crimes by end users, like simple possession, may result in treatment rather than jail time. However, those who are part of the supply chain like manufacturers or traffickers, harsh sentencing is more likely, as courts may not see this offense as being victimless.

Assaultive Offenses

Simple assault is generally a relatively nonserious misdemeanor, although it does carry potential jail time. Domestic violence is slightly more serious, with the major distinction between the two offenses being the relationship between victim and offender. Domestic violence carries harsher penalties and a much heavier stigma.

Aggravated assault is generally the most serious offense in this group. It is a felony and is usually charged in serious assault cases.

Theft and Retail Theft Charges

Theft and retail theft are common offenses during times of economic hardship. Many people facing these charges are not habitual criminals, but normal people who could not afford to meet their family's needs. Nevertheless, theft can still hold significant penalties in Illinois. Retail theft over $300 or theft over $500 is likely to be charged as a felony. If you are facing felony charges, you could risk years of prison time depending on the value of the property allegedly taken.

Weapons Crime

Even lawful gun owners can be arrested if they bring their gun to the wrong place, intentionally or otherwise. More serious weapons charges may be brought if you were not lawfully in possession, such as if you are subject to a protection order or have a felony conviction.

Juvenile Crime Lawyers

A juvenile conviction, like underage drinking or shoplifting, can lead to serious consequences. Even if the judicial sentence is light, young people may face rejection from colleges or school discipline. While minor misdemeanors generally stay in juvenile court, if you are facing a more serious offense your case could be moved to adult court.

Contact a Downers Grove Criminal Defense Attorney

Appelman Law LLC prides itself on providing the best criminal defense services available. We understand the difficulty of facing criminal charges and will do all we can to further your legal interests. To schedule a complimentary initial consultation with Attorney Brett Appelman, please contact our office at 630-717-7801.