Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL Criminal Defense FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Decatur is (217) 424‑2711.

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

  To get a copy of a police report in Decatur, you need to fill out the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) form and submit it to an FOIA officer at the City Clerk’s office at 1 Gary K. Anderson Plaza. The form can also be submitted to FOIADPD@decaturil.gov. You can get a copy of the FOIA form here: https://www.decaturil.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Request-for-Public-Record-Form.pdf

• Can a child face charges if involved in a fight at a school in Decatur?

  Yes, a child can face charges if he/she is involved in a fight at a school in Decatur or sometimes even for a fight off school grounds. He/she can face charges for assault or battery. Although jail time can be unlikely for a child, it is also a possibility. Alternative sentencing options include putting a child on supervision, probation, or conditional discharge.

• What are the penalties for cocaine possession in Decatur?

  If you were arrested for cocaine possession in Decatur, you may need to pay fines and also do jail time. This depends on the amount by weight of the substance. If you are carrying less than 15 grams, you are to face 1 to 3 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. However, if you are carrying 900 grams or more, you are to face 10 to 50 years in prison and fines of up to $200,000, or the full street value of the substance.

• Will you be arrested for DUI in Decatur if you are underaged?

  Yes, it is illegal to drink and drive at any age in Decatur. If you are under 21 years old, you will be held under the Zero Tolerance Law. This means that you will still be considered in violation of the law and subject to criminal charges even if you only have a 0.01% Blood/Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC).

• Are you going to face jail time if you have been caught shoplifting in Decatur?

  Shoplifting, or retail theft, is a serious criminal charge in Decatur. Therefore, if you are caught shoplifting, you may face serious fines and lengthy prison terms. If you stole any items valued at less than $300, you may have to pay a $2,500 fine and go to jail for a year. Prison time may extend for up to 3 years if you have a prior shoplifting conviction. If the items you stole cost over $300, possible penalties include a $25,000 fine and 3–7 years in prison.

• Do children in Decatur have the power to get an order of protection against their parents?

  Under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, found at 750 ILCS 60/1 et seq, children have the right to seek an order of protection against their parent. A state attorney can help a child in Decatur file a petition for an order of protection on his/her behalf. The state attorney can also help the child gather evidence so he/she can prove that he/she has been a victim of abuse or harassment by his/her parent. The order of protection can be extended to the end of the criminal case and even through a term of probation.