Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Joliet

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Joliet, Illinois?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Joliet Police Department is (815) 726-2491.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Joliet, Illinois?

  You can get a copy of the police report related to your case in Joliet by completing a City of Joliet Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request Form or submitting a written request online (https://joliet.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(1gaojx3uipgw5qpce3ddvdkw))/supporthome.aspx), in person, or by mail, fax, or email.

  Joliet Police Department Records - FOIA Officer 150 W Washington Street Jolie, IL 60432 Fax: (815) 724-3260

• What are the diversion programs in Joliet?

  There are several diversion programs in Joliet available for people who have been convicted of a crime. These are:

  • Court supervision, which is not applicable to cases, such as domestic battery, second-time DUI, justice obstruction, assist resistance, and driving on a revoked license.
  • Probation for drug offenses involving commonly abused substances, including heroin, ecstasy, cocaine, and marijuana (more than 30 grams)
  • Treatment alternative for safe communities (TASC) probation not applicable to violent crimes, most drug offenses, and DUI
  • Impact incarceration or boot camp

• When does a robbery in Joliet become an aggravated robbery?

  Robbery charges in Joliet may become elevated to aggravated robbery when:

  • the alleged robber claims to have a weapon during the crime (such as a gun, switchblade, or ax) but in reality, does not
  • a person robs the alleged victim after delivering a controlled substance
  • the victim is over 60 years old or physically disabled
  • the robbery occurs in a daycare center, school, or place of worship

• What are the things to know if a child has been charged with a criminal offense in Joliet?

  In Joliet, if a minor has been charged with a criminal offense, such as retail theft or underage DUI, law enforcement officers are required to make an effort to contact one of the parents before questioning them. If a parent cannot be reached, they should ask for the presence of another adult. Minors charged with misdemeanors will remain in the juvenile system, while those aged 13-17 accused of felonies may be transferred to an adult court after a full hearing on the case in front of a judge.

• How long can police detain a minor after an arrest in Joliet?

  When a child under the age of 12 has been charged with a criminal offense in Joliet, the police can detain them for up to six hours. On the other hand, a minor between the ages of 12 and 17 may be detained for up to 12 hours for allegedly committing a non-violent crime and up to 24 hours if charged with a violent crime.

• How can you assert your right to remain silent if you are being questioned by the police in Joliet?

  After the police officer in Joliet gave you a Miranda warning and started asking questions, you can assert your right to remain silent by telling them that:

  • you want to talk to a lawyer
  • you will not say anything until you talk to a lawyer
  • you do not have anything to say
  • you do not want to talk to them anymore
  • you are claiming your Miranda rights

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.