What Should I Do if I’m Charged With a Crime in Illinois?

Mar 18, 2026

What Should I Do if I’m Charged With a Crime in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Combs Waterkotte attorney Joshua Boardman discusses what you should if charged in Illinois. It is important to take the situation seriously and understand your legal rights. Criminal charges in Illinois can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with potential penalties including fines, probation, or jail time under statutes such as 720 ILCS 5 of the Illinois Criminal Code. You should avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney, as statements can be used against you in court. Gathering documents, preserving evidence, and understanding the charges against you can be critical to building a strong defense. Speaking with an experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal defense law firm serving Illinois and Missouri. Our Illinois defense attorneys will fight for your freedom and rights and will not stop until you get justice. If you are facing criminal charges in Illinois, we can help. Call us at (312) 500-HELP 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Interview Transcript

Scott Michael Dunn: So what should I do if I’m charged with a crime in Illinois?

Joshua Boardman: If you’re charged with a crime in Illinois, there’s several things you want to be aware of. First, when’s your court date? Have an understanding of what you’ve been charged with. Seek out the counsel of a criminal defense attorney who can start to research what charges you’ve allegedly violated or committed. They can start by entering their appearance into the case, requesting discovery, things of that nature.

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