Class 4 Felony Lawyer in Chicago
A Class 4 felony is the lowest felony category in Illinois, but the consequences can still follow you for the rest of your life.
If you have been charged with a Class 4 felony in Chicago or DuPage County, it is important to take the case seriously. Although Class 4 felonies are considered the least severe felony classification under Illinois law, a conviction can still bring prison time, substantial fines, and long lasting damage to your future. Before speaking with law enforcement or attending any court date, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
At Kovacevic Law, we defend individuals facing felony charges and work to reduce or dismiss those charges whenever possible. With more than a decade of criminal defense experience, we know how prosecutors approach Class 4 cases and how to challenge weak evidence to protect your record.
What Is a Class 4 Felony in Illinois
Class 4 felonies cover a wide range of offenses. Some crimes are always classified as Class 4 felonies, while others become Class 4 felonies when aggravating factors are present.
Common Class 4 Felony Offenses
Examples of offenses that may be charged as Class 4 felonies include:
- Stalking
- Aggravated assault
- Retail theft involving more than five hundred dollars
- Possession of more than thirty grams of marijuana
- Driving under the influence
- Certain first time weapons offenses
Even though these crimes are at the lowest felony level, they can still result in harsh penalties that affect your life long-term.
Penalties for a Class 4 Felony in Illinois
Imprisonment and Fines
A standard Class 4 felony conviction carries:
- One to three years in an Illinois state prison
- Fines up to twenty five thousand dollars
If aggravating factors are present such as a hate motivated crime or harm to an elderly victim, the court may impose an extended term sentence:
- Three to six years in state prison
Alternative Sentencing Options
In some situations, prosecutors or judges may agree to alternative sentencing instead of state prison. These alternatives focus on rehabilitation and may include:
- Probation
- Conditional discharge
- Periodic imprisonment for up to eighteen months
- Impact incarceration or boot camp for defendants between eighteen and thirty five
- Monetary fines
These options can significantly reduce the severity of the outcome and may keep a defendant out of prison.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving the Chicagoland area, call (312) 344-3340.
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Frequently asked questions
Get clear guidance on navigating Class 4 felony charges in Illinois and protecting your rights.
Can I avoid prison for a Class 4 felony?
Yes, many Class 4 felonies qualify for probation, conditional discharge, or other alternatives depending on the facts of the case.
Can a Class 4 felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?
In some cases, yes. Negotiations, treatment programs, or issues with the evidence may support a reduction to a lesser charge.
What counts as an aggravating factor?
Aggravating factors include harm to vulnerable victims, hate motivated conduct, or a prior criminal history that increases sentencing severity.
Will a Class 4 felony stay on my record forever?
A conviction becomes part of your permanent record and can affect employment, housing, licensing, and other opportunities.
Does a Class 4 felony affect travel?
Yes, a Class 4 felony can impact your ability to travel, especially outside the country. While you can usually travel freely within the United States, some countries may deny entry to visitors with a felony conviction. International travel often depends on the specific offense, how recent the conviction is, and the laws of the destination country. If you are facing a Class 4 felony charge, speak with an attorney before making travel plans so you understand the possible restrictions and how to protect your rights.