If you have been charged with a felony crime in Illinois, it’s important to know the potential punishments. Under Illinois sentencing law, there are a number of rules that judges must follow when they are imposing a sentence for a felony. To ensure that judges are following the rules and interpreting them in the way that is best for you, you need the advice and representation of an experienced Chicago defense attorney.
No Supervision in Cases with Guilt
First, the court may not defer further proceedings and the imposition of a sentence and may not enter an order for supervision of the defendant, if the defendant pleads guilty or otherwise admits guilt.
Fines for Felony Convictions
Second, a judge may sentence a person convicted of a felony to pay a fine of up to $25,000 for each offense. If the defendant is a corporation, a fine of $50,000 can be levied. If a greater fine amount is specified in the law for the particular offense, the judge has the power to impose the higher fine.
Fines can be part of a sentence that includes conditional discharge, probation, periodic imprisonment, or imprisonment.
Stating Reasons for Sentences
Third, judges must also abide by the rule that requires them to state clearly their reasons for imposing the sentence that they do in a felony case. Legitimate reasons may include any mitigating or aggravating factors that are spelled out in Illinois law or specified by the judge.
Reducing Sentences
In order to request that a judge reduce a sentence for a felony, you must file a motion to reduce the sentence within 30 days. A judge is not allowed to increase a sentence after it is imposed.
If you have a previous and unexpired sentence of imprisonment from another state or from a federal court, which you must continue serving after being sentenced in Illinois, a judge can order that you serve your Illinois sentence concurrently.
Reducing Unexpired Illinois Sentences after Serving Time Elsewhere
If you have a previous and unexpired sentence of imprisonment in Illinois, and you have served a term of imprisonment imposed by the another state or federal court, you may apply to the Illinois court to have your sentence reduced. You must apply for reduction of your sentence within 30 days after completing the other sentence.
Seek Assistance Now
If you have been charged with a felony crime and you want to ensure the best possible outcome for your case, you need representation from an experienced and dedicated felony defense attorney. Steven Goldman and his team will fight tirelessly to reduce your sentence, and to work with judges to make sure that they interpret their sentencing obligations in the most favorable way for you. Contact us today for a free consultation on your felony charges.
