At Hawkins Law, P.C., you will never be just another number on a file. Our Decatur criminal attorney works for and represents people – people who are unique individuals with specific needs and goals. Our team also knows that you are likely facing one of the worst experiences in your life and its resolution is of the utmost importance to you and your family. As a smaller office, we can take the time to provide the personalized attention you deserve at this critical crossroads. Our experienced criminal defense attorney will listen to you, investigate your case, and develop a customized strategy specific to you. Our goal is to help you obtain the best possible outcome.

Arrested for a crime? Contact us online or at (217) 599-6110 to arrange for a free initial consultation with a Decatur criminal defense attorney. Discuss your case and learn your options. 

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

A criminal defense lawyer serves as a lifeline for people charged with a crime. They bear a profound understanding of the law, legal precedents, and court procedures, and leverage this knowledge to protect the rights of the accused, ensuring they receive a fair trial. These attorneys meticulously examine every aspect of the case, challenge any discrepancies or loopholes, and strategize a robust defense plan focused on mitigating the accused's legal consequences or obtaining an acquittal.

As part of their services, criminal defense attorneys:

• Offer Legal Guidance: They explain the nature of the charges, available defenses, plea bargains, and what to expect if convicted.
• Protect Rights: They ensure their client's constitutional rights are not violated during the criminal justice process.
• Investigate the Case: They scrutinize the evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts to build a strong defense strategy.
• Manage Legal Documentation: They handle all paperwork necessary for court proceedings and guide clients through complex legal formalities.
• Represent in Court: They argue on behalf of their client, presenting evidence and cross-examining the prosecution's witnesses.
• Negotiate Plea Deals: If appropriate, they negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges or penalties.
• Provide Emotional Support: Facing criminal charges can be emotionally draining. A defense attorney provides moral and psychological support during this challenging time.

Cases Our Decatur, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer Handles

Our criminal defense lawyer has long experience in dealing with criminal investigations, arrests, and charges. We know that attention to detail is crucial in finding weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case and in building strong defenses on your behalf. By conducting a full investigation into your arrest and charges, we can find ways to explore all available defense options. 

Our team handles both state and federal crimes, including but not limited to:

• DUI, whether this is a first or subsequent offense
• Drug crimes, such as possession, distribution, sales, manufacturing, and trafficking
• Domestic violence crimes against intimate partners, family members, or household members
• Theft crimes, including shoplifting, auto theft, and felony theft
• White collar crimes, ranging from identity theft to embezzlement, money laundering, forgery, various types of fraud, and more
• Weapon charges, ranging from possession of a firearm to discharging, brandishing, or unlawfully selling firearms, and more
• Traffic violations and crimes, such as reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, speeding, texting while driving, and more
• Assault and battery
• Juvenile offenses, including misdemeanors and felonies
• Probation violations
• Violent crimes, such as sexual assault, reckless homicide, manslaughter, and murder 

The penalties you are at risk for may include jail or prison time, hefty fines, lengthy probation, license suspension, community service, or other consequences depending on the nature of the offense. A conviction will also give you a permanent criminal record accessible on a background check that can impair future employment, housing, professional license eligibility, and other opportunities. 

Why Hire a Decatur Criminal Defense Attorney?

When facing criminal charges, having a Decatur criminal defense lawyer on your side is essential for providing knowledgeable representation in the courtroom. A criminal defense attorney in Macon County can offer a range of invaluable services, including comprehensive knowledge of Illinois criminal law, tenacious negotiation skills, and the ability to identify potential issues with the evidence or criminal process. With the resources and guidance of a Decatur criminal attorney, you may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed altogether based on procedural flaws, evidentiary obstacles, or other areas of dispute. 

A defense lawyer can offer personalized advice to your specific circumstances and build an effective legal strategy to represent your interests in court. Prosecutors may be willing to negotiate favorable plea bargains due to the presence of a reputed criminal defense law firm. Hiring an experienced Decatur criminal defense lawyer and knowing you can trust them with your case will reduce the stress and fear associated with criminal proceedings.

Have questions about your criminal charges in Macon County? Contact our criminal attorney in Decatur, IL, today at (217) 599-6110 to schedule your free consultation!