In Illinois, arson is a serious property crime that, if convicted, can upend someone’s life in a multitude of ways. For example, someone can be charged with arson if they use fire to deliberately damage an individual’s property, including your property, or if they use fire or explosives to damage a building. Sometimes, someone may commit arson to try and commit insurance fraud. Whatever the case, arson is a crime taken very seriously by the authorities and, thus, must be taken equally seriously by whoever is charged for allegedly committing such an act.

Like with many serious crimes, the circumstances surrounding the act can significantly impact the severity of the charges brought against the alleged offender. For example, in cases involving arson, the targeted building can have a serious impact on the type of arson charges levied against the alleged perpetrator. In this blog, we will look at the penalties for arson and essential things to know if you are ever facing such charges. If you are ever charged with committing arson, do not hesitate to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help guide you through the legal process while ensuring your rights remain protected and respected. 

What Are the Penalties for Arson? 

To be charged with arson, the property set ablaze must be worth more than $150. As a result, what may be considered a minor fire can, in turn, bring serious charges. In Illinois, arson charges are as follows:

One of the more common myths regarding police officers, especially in recent years, is that they must identify themselves as police officers. This is not true. We often see this myth perpetuated in the media and on television. But as it is often said, do not believe everything you see on television or in the movies. Relying too heavily on what you read in the media or see on the big screen can result in believing in certain falsities.

Make no mistake, the police can and will lie. If you have been accused of participating in illegal activity, it is critical to hire a criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and avoid incriminating yourself. In this blog, we will take a deeper dive into situations in which police may or may not lie to suspects.

Police Officers, Sting Operations, and Entrapment. What Does It All Mean? 

You may have heard of something referred to as a “sting operation,” which are operations that try and catch criminals in the act of committing a crime. For example, an undercover police officer may pose as an underage girl online in order to lure child predators into breaking the law. These types of operations are perfectly legal. On the other hand, entrapment is not legal. Entrapment involves forcing someone or coercing them to break the law. In comparison, a sting operation allows someone the opportunity to break the law. 

You are likely aware of the term “white-collar crime.” Generally speaking, white-collar crime refers to financially motivated crimes such as mail fraud, wire fraud, insurance fraud, forgery, embezzlement, and more. Many people do not know that while white-collar crimes are not violent, they are very serious and can be exceedingly complex. Just because a crime is not violent does not make it a non-serious offense. 

White-collar crimes can bring with them hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences. This blog will look at common myths associated with white-collar offenses and how to avoid falling victim to common misconceptions. At the outset, we cannot stress enough that if you have been charged with a white-collar crime, it is critical that you contact an attorney at once to put yourself in the best position possible to pursue a positive result in your favor.

Two Common White Collar-Crime Myths

White-collar cases can be just as, if not more complex than, violent offenses. As a result, various myths are thrown around regarding white-collar crime. These myths may include the following:

In the State of Illinois, a robbery occurs when someone takes property from someone else through force or the threatened use of force. Additionally, the law states that the taking of property must be directly from another person or in the presence of another person. Being charged with robbery is a serious offense that, if convicted, may land the accused in prison for an extended period and require the accused to pay hefty fines.

While challenging, there are different ways to beat a charge of robbery. If you have been charged with robbery, it is essential you consult with a knowledgable attorney who has experience in robbery cases to ensure the most favorable outcome for yourself in the case. 

Robbery Laws in Illinois

Notably, robbery is a type of theft offense. To begin, robbery is a class 2 felony holding punishments of three to seven years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Suppose the robbery is committed against someone 60 years or older or in a place of worship, daycare facility, or school. In that case, the charge is escalated to a class 1 felony, carrying a punishment of four to fifteen years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Once you are released from jail, you will be placed on parole for two years. 

Society considers sex crimes to be especially egregious. Even if an allegation of sexual assault is completely unfounded, the accusation alone is often enough to tarnish a person's reputation forever. If you were accused of sexual assault or rape, the importance of a strong defense cannot be overstated. You need to take immediate action to defend yourself and your future.

Do Not Make the Situation Worse than it Already Is

Anyone accused of a serious criminal offense such as sexual assault must understand that our right against self-incrimination exists for a reason. You have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise it. Do not try to talk your way out of the situation or make excuses. The police will likely use anything you say against you. It is always best to let your lawyer do the talking for you.

It is also crucial that you stay away from the person who accused you. Any contact or communication you have with the accuser could lead to further allegations.