Why You Never Want To Be Convicted Of a Class X Felony

Why You Never Want To Be Convicted Of a Class X Felony

In Illinois, crimes are divided into five categories per type. Each carries similar punishments with some differences, but a Class X felony carries the harshest penalties. These are a step below first-degree murder, but a Palos Heights criminal defense lawyer can work to get it reduced. If charged, your future will be bleak as your job prospects dwindle.

Penalties for Class X Felonies in Illinois

If convicted of a Class X felony, you can face a minimum jail sentence ranging from six years to three decades. This includes fines amounting to $25,000. You may incur these penalties even if this is your first conviction.

The judge can also increase the maximum jail time if the crime includes aggravating factors. In severe cases, you can face 60 years in jail. Some of these factors include:

• You have a criminal charge on your criminal record.
• The victim of the crime was older than 60 years or disabled.
• You caused or threatened to do serious harm to the victim.
• The crime was on discriminatory factors such as religion, race, gender, etc.

Probation is not an option for a Class X felony charge.

Types of Class X Felony Charges

You can face a Class X felony charge for the following crimes:

• Aggravated criminal sexual assault.
• Aggravated kidnapping or battery of a child.
• Aggravated battery using a firearm.
• Home invasion.
• Armed robbery.
• Aggravated vehicle-jacking.
• Aggravated arson.
• Possession of a controlled substance that you want to deliver.
• Child pornography.

How a Defense Attorney Can Reduce a Class X Felony Charge

An experienced and competent Palos Heights criminal defense lawyer can get this charge and its penalties reduced in certain circumstances. You may face time in jail for years if the charges against you aren’t reduced. Your defense attorney can convince the judge to do this with a persuasive defense with reasons you shouldn’t be charged.

To convince the prosecution to do this, a criminal defense attorney can use the following strategies:

• Pinpoint weaknesses in the case in your favor.
• Emphasize the fact that you don’t have a criminal history.
• Emphasize that the crime did not cause bodily harm.

These defenses can reduce your Class X felony to a Class 1 felony or lower. Exercise your Fifth Amendment rights by contacting a defense attorney before it is too late. The felony charge can ruin your prospects – once you are a free man/woman, your job prospects will be pretty low, and your family may have moved on.

Contact Michael D. Ettinger & Associates for a Consultation Today!

Are you in danger of being charged with a Class X felony and searching for a Palos Heights, criminal defense lawyer? Contact Michael D. Ettinger & Associates for a consultation today by dialing 708-923-0368. We have extensive experience protecting our client’s rights and negotiating punishment terms in court.

We represent clients across northeastern Illinois and offer proactive counsel that is strategic enough to prevent future disputes. Our successful track record speaks for itself. Book a consultation so we can help you overcome legal challenges that can otherwise turn your life and future upside down.