State felony charges
A felony conviction in Illinois can mean prison time and a record that follows you to every job application. We defend felony cases in Cook County and the surrounding counties, from the first hearing through trial.
Charges we defend
- First and second degree murder720 ILCS 5/9-1, 9-2
- Reckless homicide720 ILCS 5/9-3
- Aggravated DUI625 ILCS 5/11-501(d)
- Unlawful and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon720 ILCS 5/24-1, 24-1.6
- Unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon720 ILCS 5/24-1.1
- Drug possession and possession with intent720 ILCS 570/401, 402
- Burglary and residential burglary720 ILCS 5/19-1, 19-3
- Theft and retail theft720 ILCS 5/16-1, 16-25
- Robbery and armed robbery720 ILCS 5/18-1, 18-2
- Aggravated battery720 ILCS 5/12-3.05
- Criminal sexual assault and abuse720 ILCS 5/11-1.20 to 11-1.60
What a felony class means
Illinois felonies are sorted into classes. The class sets the sentencing range, though many charges carry enhancements or special rules.
| Class | Prison range | Probation |
|---|---|---|
| Class X | 6 to 30 years | Not available |
| Class 1 | 4 to 15 years | Often available |
| Class 2 | 3 to 7 years | Often available |
| Class 3 | 2 to 5 years | Often available |
| Class 4 | 1 to 3 years | Often available |
General ranges for first sentencing. Prior convictions, the specific offense, and extended-term rules can change them. Ask about your own charge.
How we approach a state case
We start with the pretrial release hearing, then get the police reports, body camera video, and lab results. Many cases turn on how the evidence was found, so we look closely at the stop or search. Where it fits, we pursue alternatives such as drug court, TASC probation, or reduction to a misdemeanor.
Questions
Is there still bail in Illinois?
No. Since September 2023, Illinois courts no longer set cash bail. The judge decides whether to release you and on what conditions, and the prosecution must file a petition and prove its case to keep you detained.
Can a felony be sealed?
Some can. Illinois allows sealing for many felony convictions after a waiting period, though there are exceptions. We can review your record and tell you what is possible.