Class 2 Felony Lawyer in Chicago
A Class 2 felony may not be the highest felony level, but the consequences can still be life changing. The sooner you get legal representation, the stronger your defense will be.
If you have been charged with a Class 2 felony in Chicago or surrounding suburbs, understanding the potential penalties and your legal options is critical. Class 2 felonies carry the possibility of years in prison and substantial fines, and a conviction will leave you with a permanent criminal record. Before speaking with investigators or the prosecution, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
At Kovacevic Law, we represent individuals facing serious felony charges and fight to have those charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible. With over a decade of criminal defense experience, we know how these cases are prosecuted in Illinois and how to push back against aggressive tactics.
What Is a Class 2 Felony in Illinois
Many different crimes can be charged as Class 2 felonies. Some are automatically classified at this level, while others become Class 2 felonies when certain aggravating factors are present.
Common Class 2 Felony Offenses
Examples of Class 2 felony offenses include:
- Kidnapping
- Theft involving more than two thousand dollars in property
- Receiving stolen property
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Possession of certain quantities of illegal drugs
- Aggravated battery of a police officer
The specific charge you face will determine the potential penalties and whether enhanced sentencing could apply.
Penalties for a Class 2 Felony in Illinois
Imprisonment and Fines
A standard Class 2 felony is punishable by:
- Three to seven years in an Illinois state prison
- Fines of up to twenty five thousand dollars
If aggravating factors exist, the court may impose an extended term sentence, which increases the punishment to:
- Four to fourteen years in state prison
Aggravating factors can include the use of a weapon, hate crime motivations, significant bodily harm, or other circumstances that elevate the seriousness of the offense.
Alternative Sentencing Options
Illinois law allows judges to impose alternative sentences instead of mandatory prison time in certain circumstances. These options may include:
- Up to four years of probation
- Conditional discharge
- Periodic imprisonment lasting between eighteen and thirty months
- Boot camp or impact incarceration for eligible defendants
- Financial penalties
Alternative sentencing is often available when the defendant has limited criminal history and the circumstances of the offense are less severe.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving the Chicagoland area, call (312) 344-3340.
Start Your Case
Frequently asked questions
Understand your rights and what to expect with this overview of Class 2 felony charges in Illinois.
Is prison required for a Class 2 felony conviction?
Prison is not required in every Class 2 felony case. Judges can choose alternative sentencing options depending on the circumstances, the defendant’s background, and whether aggravating factors are present.
What makes a Class 2 felony sentence longer?
Aggravating factors such as using a firearm, committing a hate motivated crime, or causing serious bodily harm can increase the penalty to an extended term sentence.
Can a Class 2 felony be reduced to a lesser charge?
Yes, many cases can be negotiated down to a Class 3 or Class 4 felony, or even a misdemeanor in some situations, depending on the evidence and defense strategy.
Will a Class 2 felony stay on my record permanently?
Yes, felony convictions remain on your record and can affect employment, housing, licensing, and more. Avoiding a conviction is extremely important.
What happens at my first court date for a Class 2 felony?
Your first appearance, called an arraignment, is where the charges are formally presented and you enter a plea. Having a criminal defense attorney present ensures your rights are protected from day one.