Chicago Violent Crimes Attorney

Experienced Defense Against Violent Crime Charges in Illinois 

Chicago, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, has also grappled with a complex issue of violent crime. The city's diverse population and urban landscape have contributed to a unique set of challenges in addressing this issue. For individuals accused of violent crimes in Chicago, the consequences can be severe, often leading to significant legal ramifications and social repercussions. In such circumstances, having a skilled and experienced legal advocate becomes paramount.

If you are facing allegations for a violent crime, your future freedom is on the line. You will need the representation of a knowledgeable and highly skilled attorney who is well-versed in these types of legal matters to aggressively help you fight the charges. Violent crime cases are involved and quite complex, requiring your lawyer to have the fortitude and resources to effectively represent you.

Understanding Violent Crime Charges in Chicago

Chicago, like many large cities, faces challenges with violent crime. Understanding the key elements of common violent crimes and their potential penalties can be helpful in navigating the legal system. Here's a breakdown of some of the most prevalent violent crimes in Chicago:

1. Murder

• Key elements: The unlawful killing of another person with malice aforethought.
• Potential penalties: Life imprisonment or the death penalty in certain cases.

2. Attempted Murder

• Key elements: An intent to kill another person, coupled with a substantial step towards that goal.
• Potential penalties: Significant prison time, often decades.

3. Manslaughter

• Key elements: The unlawful killing of another person without malice aforethought. It can be either voluntary (in the heat of passion) or involuntary (due to negligence).
• Potential penalties: Prison time, depending on the circumstances.

4. Aggravated Battery

• Key elements: A battery that involves the use of a deadly weapon, causes great bodily harm, or is committed against a specific person (e.g., a police officer, a senior citizen).
• Potential penalties: Prison time, often significant.

5. Robbery

• Key elements: The taking of property from another person by force or threat of force.
• Potential penalties: Prison time, depending on the severity of the robbery.

6. Assault

• Key elements: An attempt to commit a battery or causing fear of imminent bodily harm.
• Potential penalties: Fines, probation, or prison time, depending on the severity of the assault.

7. Burglary

• Key elements: The unauthorized entry into a building with the intent to commit a felony.
• Potential penalties: Prison time, depending on the value of the stolen property and the severity of the burglary.

What Are the Penalties for Violent Crime Charges in Illinois?

The penalties for violent crime charges in Illinois can vary widely depending on the specific crime, the circumstances of the case, and the defendant's criminal history.

Felony Charges

• Murder: Life imprisonment or death penalty
• Attempted Murder: 20-50 years in prison
• Manslaughter: 2-20 years in prison
• Aggravated Battery: 2-5 years in prison, up to 15 years if the victim is a child or a police officer
• Armed Robbery: 6-30 years in prison
• Burglary: 3-14 years in prison

Misdemeanor Charges

• Battery: Up to 1 year in jail
• Domestic Battery: Up to 30 days in jail

Legal Process for Violent Crime Cases in Illinois

Arrest and Arraignment

• Arrest: When law enforcement believes a person has committed a violent crime, they may arrest them.
• Miranda Rights: Upon arrest, the individual is informed of their Miranda rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
• Arraignment: Shortly after arrest, the accused is brought before a judge. The charges are read, and the defendant is asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). If a plea is not entered, a preliminary hearing is scheduled.

Preliminary Hearing

• Purpose: To determine if there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed the crime.
• Evidence: The prosecution presents evidence to support the charges.
• Decision: If the judge finds probable cause, the case moves forward to the grand jury. If not, the charges may be dismissed.

Grand Jury Indictment

• Grand Jury: A group of citizens who hear evidence from the prosecution to determine if there is enough evidence to formally charge the defendant.
• Indictment: If the grand jury finds probable cause, they issue an indictment, which is a formal accusation of a crime.

Trial

• Trial by Jury: In most cases, the defendant has the right to a trial by jury.
• Burden of Proof: The prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Verdict: The jury deliberates and reaches a verdict (guilty or not guilty). If found guilty, the defendant is sentenced.

Sentencing

• Sentencing Hearing: A hearing is held to determine the appropriate punishment.
• Factors: The judge considers factors such as the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating circumstances.   
• Sentence: The judge imposes a sentence, which may include imprisonment, probation, fines, or a combination of these.

Appeals

• Appeal: A defendant may appeal the verdict or sentence to a higher court.
• Grounds: Appeals are typically based on legal errors made during the trial or sentencing.
• Outcome: The appellate court may affirm the lower court's decision, reverse it, or remand the case for a new trial.

Contact Our Chicago Violent Crimes Lawyer Today

The Toney Law Firm, LLC can provide the level of skilled representation you need in a wide range of violent crime cases such as murder/manslaughter, assault, aggravated assault, robbery, battery, such sex crimes as rape and sexual abuse, gang offenses, hate crimes, domestic violence, weapons offenses, and juvenile crimes of a violent nature.

The team understands that clients facing charges for a violent offense are under a tremendous amount of pressure, and the firm will work tirelessly to thoroughly evaluate all flaws in the prosecution's case and build a compelling and detailed defense to challenge the allegations. Since there are no two criminal defense cases that are exactly alike, your attorney will apply skill, creativity and talent to your defense and proceed in a way that serves your interests best.

Call (888) 473-4058 for a free consultation. The firm is prepared to vigorously and relentlessly fight for your future freedom.