Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Evanston, IL

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Evanston Police Department is 847-866-5000.

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

  You may get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case at the Records Bureau, located at 2100 Ridge Avenue.

• What is the criminal defense process in Evanston?

  Following their arrest, criminal suspects in Evanston are either given a citation or brought to the precinct to be fingerprinted, photographed, and interviewed. These suspects must then attend their arraignment, where the charges brought against them will be read and a bond amount revealed. If the plea or diversion offer presented at the preliminary status hearings is rejected, a trial date will be set.

• Which crimes in Evanston get tried in federal court?

  Common crimes in Evanston that get tried in federal rather than state court include drug trafficking and distribution, money laundering, fraud, identity theft, and arson. Meanwhile, crimes such as domestic violence, driving under the influence, burglary, and murder are prosecuted in state court. Federal crimes often carry harsher punishments than state ones.

• Is marijuana use illegal in Evanston?

  In Evanston, recreational marijuana use is only permitted for adults aged 21 years and above. Individuals must also purchase marijuana from a state-licensed facility, as well as have no more than 30 grams on their person at a time. Additionally, driving while under the influence of marijuana and carrying the substance onto school grounds are considered criminal offenses.

• How does Evanston handle domestic violence offenses?

  First-time domestic battery offenses in Evanston are considered Class A misdemeanors and are punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,500. However, individuals with repeat domestic battery offenses may be charged with a Class 4 felony, which is punishable by up to six years in jail and a maximum fine of $25,000. The same penalties apply to individuals who violate orders of protection.

• Who can get their Evanston criminal records sealed?

  Individuals in Evanston who are eligible for records sealing include those who have been convicted of non-violent misdemeanor or felony offenses, including minor traffic offenses, drug possession, and certain prostitution offenses. Meanwhile, criminal offenses that are not eligible for sealing include most violent or sexual offenses, DUIs, domestic battery, and animal cruelty.

• 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.