If you are charged with any crime, whether it is a Felony or a Misdemeanor, it is vital to hire an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney. The attorneys at Pechter & Pechter LLP know Criminal Law and will not only aggressively fight your case, but they will explain your options and assist you in making an informed decision.

What is a Felony?

A Felony is an offense where the maximum sentence exceeds one year in the penitentiary. Examples of Felonies we handle include Drug Possession, Drug Delivery, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Domestic Battery, Murder, Attempt Murder, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, and Aggravated DUI.

Classifications of Felonies:

For the purpose of sentencing, Felonies are classified into 6 categories:

1. First degree murder (as a separate class of felony)
   1. Generally, 20-60 years in prison*
   2. Generally, 3 years of mandatory supervised release
   3. Not probationable.
2. Class X Felony
   1. Generally, 6-30 years in prison*
   2. Generally, 3 years of mandatory supervised release
   3. Not probationable
3. Class 1 Felony
   1. Generally, 4-15 years in prison*
   2. Generally, 2 years of mandatory supervised release
   3. Generally probationable.**
4. Class 2 Felony
   1. Generally, 3-7 years in prison*
   2. Generally, 2 years of mandatory supervised release
   3. Generally, probationable
5. Class 3 Felony
   1. Generally, 2-5 years in prison*
   2. Generally, 1 year of mandatory supervised release
   3. Generally, probationable **
6. Class 4 Felony
   1. Generally, 1-3 years in prison*
   2. Generally, 1 year of mandatory supervised release
   3. Generally, probationable**​

Fines and other conditions may also be imposed at sentence.
*Sentences may be higher if extended term is imposed as well as other specific instances. Be sure to discuss your specific case with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney.
** There are certain circumstances and offenses when probation is not allowed. Be sure to discuss your specific case with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney.

What is a Misdemeanor?

A Misdemeanor is an offense where the sentence must be less than one year in jail. Examples of Misdemeanors we handle include DUI, Battery, Domestic Battery, Violations of Orders of Protection, Criminal Damage to Property, Aggravated Speeding, Reckless Driving, and Leaving the Scene of an Accident.

Classifications of Misdemeanors:

For the purpose of sentencing, Misdemeanors are classified into 3 categories:

1. Class A Misdemeanors
   1. 1-364 days in jail
   2. Probationable
   3. Sometimes, supervision may be granted.
2. Class B Misdemeanors
   1. 1 day to 6 months in jail
   2. Probationable
   3. Sometimes, supervision may be granted.
3. Class C Misdemeanors
   1. 1-30 days in jail.
   2. Probationable
   3. Sometimes, supervision may be granted

Fines and other conditions may also be imposed upon sentencing.

What should I do if I am charged with a Felony or Misdemeanor?

Barry Pechter and Scott Pechter concentrate their practice on defending people who have been charged with Felonies and Misdemeanors and are ready to help you with all of the complexities of your case. Call us at (708) 599-4300 if you or someone you know was charged with a Felony or Misdemeanor.

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Barry Pechter and Scott Pechter are the firm's partners.
​Our office is located at 10135 South Roberts Road, Suite 204, Palos Hills, Illinois, 60465 Four blocks directly west of the Bridgeview courthouse.
We serve Cook County, Will County, DuPage County, and Kane County.