Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Cicero, IL

FAQs

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

  You can call the Cicero Police Department at 315-699-3677 for non-emergency situations.

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

  A copy of a police report for a criminal case can be retrieved at the Cicero Police Department at 4901 W Cermak Rd.

• Will you be jailed for committing a non-violent crime for the first time in Cicero?

  Individuals in Cicero who are first-time offenders of non-violent crimes can be placed on the Offender Initiative Program, a special form of probation that helps them avoid a criminal conviction on their records. This program only applies to first-time offenders of eligible crimes that are available for probation, including burglary and burglary tools, forgery, theft and retail theft, and possession of cannabis, controlled substances, methamphetamine, and stolen motor vehicles.

• Is there a second chance probation for criminal defendants in Cicero?

  Criminal defendants in Cicero can be eligible for the Second Chance Probation if they have no previous convictions for any felony offense and have not previously received conditional discharge or probation. Those charged with a class 3 or 4 felony involving criminal damage to property, drugs, and theft are eligible for the Second Chance Probation. Defendants with charges involving DUIs, sex offenses, and violent crimes, however, are not eligible.

• How long does a DUI offense in Cicero stay on a criminal record?

  DUI offenses in Cicero stay on a person’s criminal record for life as well as all alcohol and drug criminal offenses. Under Illinois law, defendants are not allowed to have their DUI records expunged or sealed from their criminal records. The only way to have DUI-related incidents removed from a person’s record is if they were found not guilty, their charges were dismissed, or they were never charged even though they were arrested.

• Do you immediately lose your license after a DUI in Cicero?

  Individuals charged with DUI offenses in Cicero will have their licenses automatically suspended 46 days after their arrest. This applies to drivers with alcohol levels that are over the legal limit and to those who refused to take a blood, breath, or urine test. They can still drive for 46 days, but after the 46th day of their arrest, their driver’s license will automatically be suspended.

• What criminal cases can be immediately expunged from a criminal record in Cicero?

  There are certain felonies that can be immediately expunged from a criminal record in Cicero. You can file immediate expungement if you were found not guilty, pardoned, or released without a conviction. Cases that are stricken and those found with no probable cause can also be immediately expunged. However, some cases have a five-year waiting period to get expunged such as those involving second-chance and qualified probations.

• 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.