Can My Illinois Felony Charge Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor?

 Posted on September 16, 2024 in Criminal Defense

If you are charged with a crime in Illinois, your offense will be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Both kinds of charges can threaten your future, finances, and freedom if you are convicted.

When you work with an experienced attorney from McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC, we will investigate your situation to develop a solid criminal defense strategy. If we cannot have your case dismissed, one of our options may be to attempt to have your felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor. Call us today to discuss your case and learn more about how we can protect your rights and best interests.

What Is a Wobbler Crime?

Known as a "wobbler" crime, some offenses can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on case-specific factors. Prosecutors have the authority to decide whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony for wobbler offenses, which may include:

• Some drug charges

• Driving under the influence

• Burglary

• Domestic violence

• Vandalism

• Grand theft

• Assault with a deadly weapon

Some felony crimes, such as murder and rape, cannot be reduced.

Our seasoned lawyers know the local laws and court systems. When possible, your attorney from McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge. When considering this request, the prosecutor will review your previous criminal record, the nature of your charges, and any extenuating circumstances.

We will present you to the prosecutor as a whole person who may have made a mistake rather than just a case number. This strategy often works to your advantage, making the prosecutor more willing to reduce your charges.

Why Would You Want Your Charges To Be Reduced?

Felony charges are more severe than misdemeanors, with longer potential imprisonment times and heavier fines. For instance:

• A Class 4 felony is the least serious felony charge, carrying 1-3 years of jail time and fines of up to $25,000.

• Class A misdemeanors are the most serious, with fines of up to $2,500 and up to 364 days in jail.

Although neither option is ideal, the repercussions and impact on your life are typically less with a misdemeanor.

How Else Can McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC Help?

Every case is unique, but we will use our considerable experience to develop a comprehensive defense strategy that may include:

• Challenging the validity of your arrest

• Questioning whether police followed proper procedures

• Proving that your accuser made a false accusation

• Presenting alternate scenarios to create a reasonable doubt

When you choose McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC to represent you, you gain a partner who will steadfastly defend your rights and work to achieve the best possible results.

Call Now To Speak With Our Dedicated Joliet, IL Criminal Defense Lawyers

Facing criminal charges is serious, whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Choosing the right lawyer to represent you is vital. Call McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC at 815-727-0100 today to schedule your consultation with one of our effective Will County, IL DUI defense attorneys.