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felony
This newsletter is intended to answer some basic questions regarding Criminal Felony cases. For more information and a more complete explanation of your rights, please call George Kililis & Associates, P.C., for a free telephone or office consultation.
Felonies, based on the seriousness of the offense, may be charged as follows:*
- Class 4 Felonies are punishable by a sentence of one to three years in prison.
- Class 3 Felonies are punishable by a sentence of two to five years in prison.
- Class 2 Felonies are punishable by a sentence of three to seven years in prison.
- Class 1 Felonies, other than 2nd degree murder, are punishable by a sentence of four to fifteen years in prison.
- Class X Felonies, other than murder, are punishable by a sentence of six to thirty years in prison.
- Extended Term Sentencing: If you have a previous felony conviction in the last 10 years, or under certain other circumstances, the State may seek to double the maximum and minimum penalties listed above.*
- In addition to these prison terms each level of felony carries the potential of court fines as well as other terms and conditions of a sentence.
2. How Charges Are Brought
Felony charges are either brought by indictment or preliminary hearing:
- Indictment: The prosecutor presents evidence, without you being present, before a grand jury made up of citizens from the community. If the grand jury finds sufficient evidence they return a “true bill” of indictment.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecutor presents evidence before a judge, with you being present in court. You have the right to challenge the evidence and put on witnesses. If the judge finds probable cause to believe you committed the crime you will be required to defend yourself against the charges.
*Important restrictions and conditions apply. Please call for complete details. |
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