Bar fights can easily escalate from a minor dispute to a serious crime. If you were in a bar fight and charged with assault, you are likely wondering about your legal options and whether you could go to prison if convicted. As you face these charges, contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer, as violent crimes such as assault are often prosecuted aggressively, which makes retaining counsel an essential thing to do at this time.

What You Need to Know About Assault in Illinois

In Illinois, assault is a Class C misdemeanor and can result in up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $1,500. However, suppose the assault allegedly happened on public property. If this is the case, you could be charged with aggravated assault, which, at its most basic form, is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. Moreover, if the assault involved using a deadly weapon or resulted in serious bodily harm, this can also be charged as aggravated assault. However, in cases involving a deadly weapon or serious bodily harm, the penalties of the crime are enhanced to being a Class 4 felony, punishable by up to three years in jail and $25,000 in fines.

Non-Legal Penalties for Assault in Illinois

In addition to the potential criminal penalties, an assault conviction can devastate your personal and professional life. It can make it challenging to find a job, rent an apartment, or obtain a loan, and it may even result in losing a professional license.

Marijuana DUI, or drugged driving as it is commonly called in Illinois, is a severe offense that can lead to numerous consequences if convicted. In 2019, Illinois passed laws legalizing the recreational sale and use of marijuana. However, contrary to the belief of many, driving while under the influence of marijuana is strictly prohibited by the law and can land someone in grave legal trouble. Therefore, if you have been arrested for drugged driving, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to understand your legal options.

What You Need to Know About Drugged Driving in Illinois

The legalization of marijuana does not mean that DUI laws have changed. Driving under the influence of marijuana is still a criminal offense, punishing offenders with possible fines, jail time, or other penalties. The penalties for marijuana DUI are similar to those for a DUI involving alcohol. The driver could face the suspension or revocation of their driver’s license and may also have to complete an alcohol and drug evaluation before being allowed to drive again.

As you are likely aware, a DUI charge involving alcohol occurs when someone drives a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent. According to the Illinois Vehicle Code, the code prohibits operating a vehicle while under the influence of any drugs or alcohol that affect a person’s ability to drive safely. The law defines under the influence of any substance as any amount of a drug or substance in a person’s breath, blood, or urine.

Like most other states, Illinois has stiff penalties for drug crimes, such as possessing a controlled substance. Illinois recognizes cocaine as a Schedule I drug, meaning that there is a very high risk of abusing the substance, and there is no accepted medical use for the drug. While the ultimate sentence that an individual may face is based on the charges, circumstances of the case, and the individual’s criminal history, jail time is certainly a possibility. Today, we will discuss what you need to know about being charged with cocaine possession in Illinois. As always, if you have found yourself in this situation, contact a criminal defense attorney right away.

Here is What You Need to Know About Cocaine Possession

In Illinois, possession of a small amount of cocaine, like less than 15 grams, is considered to be a Class 4 felony offense, which, if you are convicted, may land you in prison for up to one year and paying fines of up to $25,000. Assuming this is a first-time offense, it is not overly probable that you will serve prison time on a first-time offense of possessing a small amount of cocaine. However, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will still be crucial in defending your rights and interests against the charges.

Furthermore, if you are charged with possessing an amount of cocaine between 15 and 100 grams, this is a Class 1 Felony, which can result in a sentence between 4 and 15 years in prison and fines up to $200,000. If arrested for possessing between 100 and 400 grams of cocaine, this too is a Class 1 Felony, punishable by between six and 30 years in prison and fines up to $200,000.

Hiring the right criminal defense attorney can make an enormous difference in the outcome of your case. A great criminal defense attorney can provide valuable legal guidance to help protect your rights, freedom, and interests. However, not all attorneys provide the same level of expertise, understanding, and commitment to their clients. Today, we will discuss the qualities of a great criminal defense attorney and how to find such legal services.

Qualities of a Great Criminal Defense Attorney

Here are qualities to look for, including:

• Knowledge – A great criminal defense attorney must have a deep understanding of criminal law. This includes courtroom procedures and strategies for defending clients during a trial. They should also have a solid understanding of local and state laws that impact your case.
• Communicative ability – Great lawyers are superb communicators. Your attorney should have no problem explaining legal concepts to you straightforwardly, deepening your understanding of your legal situation.
• Analytical skills – The ability to analyze and scrutinize evidence in criminal cases is crucial in supporting a client’s defense.
• Proactive efforts – A great defense attorney has the knowledge to determine essential issues in a case promptly. They will take the initiative, investigate the scene, and ensure all possible avenues to raise a meaningful defense.
• Willingness to fight – A successful attorney representing their clients is willing to fight vigorously for you while asserting the rights you are entitled to.

How to Hire a Great Criminal Attorney

When you are searching for a great criminal defense attorney, you should consider the following factors:

If you have been falsely accused of a DUI, it is important to take action to protect your rights and seek legal help as soon as possible. This blog post will discuss the reasons for false DUI accusations, the procedures to safeguard your rights and request a dismissal of charges, and the importance of working with a knowledgeable and experienced DUI defense attorney.

Reasons for False DUI Accusations in Illinois

False DUI accusations in Illinois can happen for various reasons, such as inaccurate results of a breathalyzer or field sobriety, police misconduct or bias, and mistaken identity. Regardless of the reason for the false accusation, the consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record.

Steps to Protect Your Rights and Seek a Dismissal of Charges

If you have been unjustly accused and taken into custody for a DUI in Illinois, it is essential to take immediate steps to safeguard your rights and pursue a dismissal of charges. These steps may include remaining calm and cooperative during the arrest, asserting your right to remain silent and to an attorney, and collecting evidence to support your innocence.