There are generally five types of felony offenses in Illinois: Classes 4, 3, 2, 1, and X. Regardless of the type of felony an individual is charged with, the possible outcome of the case should be taken seriously. All felony charges in Illinois can be subjected to time in prison upon conviction. Even if an individual is sentenced to probation for a felony charge, a probation violation can lead to a prison sentence. Below are the five general types of felony offenses in Illinois, and their corresponding potential sentences.

Class 4

one to three years in prison, and up to $25,000 in fines. Some examples of Class 4 felonies in Illinois are mob action, reckless discharge of a firearm, possession of 100-500 grams of cannabis, DUI, stalking and obstruction of justice.

Class 3

two to five years in prison, and up to $25,000 in fines. Some examples of Class 3 felonies in Illinois are aggravated battery resulting in great bodily harm or disfigurement, child pornography, forgery and theft.

Class 2

three to seven years in prison, and up to $25,000 in fines. Some examples of Class 2 felonies in Illinois are arson, aggravated criminal sexual abuse, aggravated domestic battery, burglary, delivery of methamphetamine (less than 5 grams), robbery and possession of a stolen firearm.

Class 1

four to fifteen years in prison, and up to $25,000 in fines. Some examples of Class 1 felonies are criminal sexual assault, possession of more than 15 grams of cocaine, trafficking more than 5,000 grams of cannabis, residential burglary, second degree murder and vehicular carjacking.

Class X

six to thirty years in prison. A Class X felony is not eligible for probation, that means, if convicted, a prison sentence is mandatory. Some examples of Class X felonies in Illinois are first degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, home invasion, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and armed robbery.

Probation is generally possible with respect to felony classes 4 through 1

However, it gets more difficult to obtain a probation sentence the greater the class of felony. It's important to note that some Illinois felonies are not eligible for probation, no matter the Class. For example, criminal sexual assault, residential burglary, cannabis trafficking, first degree murder and attempted first degree murder are all felony crimes that are not eligible for probation.

Outside of the consequences prescribed by law for a felony conviction are the "collateral consequences" of such a conviction. Collateral consequences are consequences such as not being able to obtain housing, being disqualified from welfare, being disqualified from certain jobs or job licenses/certificates, loss of driving privileges and loss of the right to vote. These are consequences less discussed in our communities, but deeply understood by Attorney Cassandra R. Hirth. You can rest assured that our law firm will fight to protect all your rights with respect to criminal charges brought against you.