Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Arlington Heights, IL

FAQs

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

  For non-emergent situations, you may call the Arlington Heights Police Department at 847-368-5300.

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

  A copy of the police report of a criminal charge can be retrieved at the Arlington Heights Police Department at 200 E Sigwalt St, Arlington Heights.

• What happens if you are not a U.S. citizen and are charged with a crime in Arlington Heights?

  Those who have been charged with a crime in Arlington Heights but are not U.S. citizens may be subjected to deportation or be permanently prohibited from re-entering the country, depending on their immigration status and the criminal charges they are facing. On the other hand, they are still entitled to a defense. It is highly suggested to hire a criminal defense attorney to help them protect their rights.

• What will happen if you get charged with theft in Arlington Heights?

  In Arlington Heights, individuals who have been charged with theft are facing a crime against property rather than against the person. Penalties for this type of crime can be a fine, probation, and even imprisonment, depending on the gravity of the case. For property theft valued at less than $500, the charge will be classified as a Class A misdemeanor. For property valued over $100,000 to $500,000, the criminal charge will be classified as a Class 1 felony.

• Can you have a criminal record expungement in Arlington Heights?

  Yes. Individuals with a criminal record in Arlington Heights can have their record expunged if the charges against them were dismissed or dropped, they were not found guilty of the crime, they were arrested but were not charged with a criminal offense, or if they were convicted of a crime but the conviction was pardoned, reversed, or vacated.

• Which criminal charges cannot be expunged in Arlington Heights?

  There are criminal charges in Arlington Heights that cannot be expunged. Some of these include federal convictions outside the state, incomplete sentences, minor traffic offenses, convictions for misdemeanors and felonies unless they were reversed, pardoned, or vacated, and court supervision for incomplete qualified probation, reckless driving, sexual offenses against minors, and for driving under the influence.

• Who is eligible for a Second Chance Probation in Arlington Heights?

  Defendants in Arlington Heights with no previous convictions for any felony offense or who have not received probation or a conditional discharge are eligible for a Second Chance Probation. Second Chance Probation gives judges an option to sentence first-time and non-violent offenders to probation without putting a felony conviction on their record. Those with previous DUI, sex offense, and violent crime charges are not eligible for Second Chance Probation.

• 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.