Buffalo Grove, IL Misdemeanor Crime Lawyer

Experienced Criminal Lawyer Serving Clients in Misdemeanor Cases in Lake County, Illinois

While misdemeanor criminal charges are less serious than felony charges, they can still result in serious consequences for your life and your future. Convictions for misdemeanor crimes can lead to fines and jail time, and they can have a severe negative impact on job prospects and other opportunities well into the future. At The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C., we take misdemeanor charges seriously and are committed to minimizing the negative consequences for our clients as we guide them through the legal system. Reach out to our Buffalo Grove misdemeanor defense attorney today for legal help.

Defending Against Misdemeanor Crimes in Lake County

A former criminal prosecutor, Attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt is experienced in handling all types of misdemeanor crimes from both sides of the courtroom. He understands how prosecutors think and can use that insight to benefit his clients. With misdemeanor crimes, particularly first offenses, it is often possible to have the charges dropped completely or negotiate for court supervision. Court supervision is the next best outcome to beating the charges because it will result in a case dismissal if properly completed. In Illinois, there are three classes of misdemeanors. They include:

• Class C Misdemeanors - Punishable by up to 30 days in jail and up to $1,500 in fines. (e.g. aggravated assault, battery, domestic battery, driving with a suspended license, retail theft, DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia, public indecency, prostitution)
• Class B Misdemeanors - Punishable by up to six months in jail and up to $1,500 in fines. (e.g. criminal trespassing, harassment by telephone)
• Class A Misdemeanors - Punishable by up to one year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines. (e.g. disorderly conduct, assault)

Can You Get Probation for a Misdemeanor Charge?

Probation is often available for misdemeanor charges in Illinois, especially for first-time offenders or offenses that did not involve serious harm to another person. Instead of jail time, a judge can order probation that requires the person to meet certain conditions over a set period, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, community service, counseling, or drug and alcohol testing.

The court may also order court supervision in some misdemeanor cases, which can allow a person to avoid a conviction on their record entirely if the terms are completed successfully. Eligibility for probation or supervision depends on the specific charge, the person's criminal history, and the facts surrounding the offense.

Violating the terms of probation can lead to serious consequences, including the possibility of the original jail sentence being imposed. Staying compliant with every condition, no matter how minor it seems, is important throughout the probationary period.

Our attorney can review your charge and your background to determine whether probation or supervision may be a realistic option in your case, and can advocate for these alternatives during negotiations with the prosecution.

Contact Our Buffalo Grove Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

No matter what the charge, our firm will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome in your case. When your case is concluded, we can also help you clear your name and protect your future by having your record expunged. If you or someone you know has been charged with a misdemeanor crime, contact our Buffalo Grove misdemeanor defense attorney or call 847-239-4703 to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.

From our Buffalo Grove office, we serve clients throughout Lake and DuPage Counties. From just a small sampling of our files, we are currently representing individuals from Barrington, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Highland Park, Glenview, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Lincolnwood, Mount Prospect, Niles, Northbrook, and Park Ridge. With over 20 years of criminal law experience, Attorney Matthew Gebhardt is more than prepared to help you.