Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Peoria

FAQs

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

  The number for the Peoria Police Department's non-emergency line is (309) 673-4573.

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

  To get a police report from the Peoria Police Department, a Freedom of Information Act Request Form must be submitted. You must provide your name, address, and telephone number, as well as your intent to use the information for commercial reasons, the police report number (if known), the type of event, the date and place of the occurrence, and the names, ages, genders, and addresses of those involved. You can also authorize the Police Department to send documents by email by mentioning your email address in your request. It saves delays and permits you to complete the entire procedure online.

• How likely are you to become a victim of violent crime in Peoria?

  According to a study of FBI-reported crime data by NeighborhoodScout, the likelihood of becoming a victim of violent crimes in Peoria is one in 114. For municipalities of all sizes, Peoria has one of the highest rates of violent crime in the United States. Rape, murder and non-negligent manslaughter, armed robbery, and aggravated assault, including assault with a dangerous weapon, were among the violent offenses monitored.

• Which Peoria neighborhoods have the lowest crime rate?

  According to the crime map provided by NeighborhoodScout, the following Peoria neighborhoods are considered safe and have a lower incidence of crime. The ten areas included in the list are Sankoty, Pioneer, Edwards, Alta, Detweiller Park, Norwood, Northwest Peoria, W Willow Knolls Dr / N Terra Vista Dr., and Central Peoria North.

• What is considered theft or larceny in Peoria?

  Illinois courts narrow the definitions of theft and larceny. When a person in Peoria intentionally: Acquires or exercises unauthorized control over another's property; Acts threateningly or uses deception to obtain control; Acquires control over stolen property; or Acquires control over the property while an undercover officer claims it's stolen. A theft charge implies that the person who took the property intended to deprive the rightful owner or that the person used, hid, or left the property.

• Is domestic violence a felony in Peoria?

  Yes. Domestic battery may be considered a Class 4 felony if the accused has a history of domestic violence convictions or has been found guilty of disobeying a protection order. A Class 4 felony charge may also be brought against someone if they have previously been found guilty of a violent crime committed against a member of their home or family. For class 4 felonies, the maximum sentence is six years in prison and a fine of $25,000.

• How does Peoria's government control guns and safeguard lawful gun owners?

  Illinois has some of the strictest gun-related laws in the United States, placing a heavy emphasis on gun crimes and gun control in Peoria. To help you better comprehend local gun laws and how you are complying with (or violating) them, here are a few examples of state regulations:

  • Waiting periods for gun purchases
  • Open carry statutes
  • Universal criminal record checks
  • Minimum purchasing age
  • Child entry prevention -Arms prohibition orders

• 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.