Serving Bloomington, IL Since 1996
Violent Crime Attorney in Peoria
The State is Building Its Case, You Should Be Building Yours—Contact Johnson Law Group
Being arrested or charged with a violent crime can change your life in a moment. You may be worried about going to prison, losing your job, or how this will affect your family. You might also be confused about what will happen in Peoria County criminal court and what you should do right now.
At Johnson Law Group, LLC, we defend people facing serious accusations of violence in Peoria and across Central Illinois. Our attorneys focus on criminal defense, and our goal is to help you understand your options and stand up to the power of the prosecution. You do not have to try to face this alone.
Johnson Law Group, LLC is one of the largest criminal defense firms in Central Illinois. When you contact us, you can talk with a violent crime defense attorney in a confidential setting and get clear guidance on next steps. To speak with us, call (309) 565-8825.
Navigating Violent Crime Laws in Illinois
In Illinois, "violent crimes" encompass a wide range of offenses categorized under the 720 ILCS 5/ Criminal Code. These charges are prosecuted aggressively by the Peoria County State’s Attorney, often carrying mandatory prison sentences and permanent felony records.
Key offenses handled by a violent crime attorney in Peoria include:
- Aggravated Battery (720 ILCS 5/12-3.05): Involves causing great bodily harm, permanent disability, or using a deadly weapon.
- Armed Robbery (720 ILCS 5/18-2): Theft committed while carrying or using a firearm or other dangerous weapon.
- Homicide (720 ILCS 5/9-1): Ranging from First-Degree Murder to Involuntary Manslaughter.
- Armed Violence (720 ILCS 5/33A-2): A "multiplier" charge that can be added if any felony is committed while armed with a dangerous weapon.
- Domestic Battery (720 ILCS 5/12-3.2): Violent acts committed against family or household members.
Our attorneys represent people accused of a wide range of violent offenses that may be prosecuted in Peoria County criminal court. These often include allegations that can expose a person to lengthy prison sentences and significant collateral consequences in everyday life.
Why Choose Our Defense Team
Violent crime cases are among the most serious matters in the criminal courts. The stakes can include long prison terms, a permanent felony record, and lasting damage to your reputation and relationships. In this situation, you need a defense team that has the experience and resources to handle complex evidence and intense pressure.
Our firm brings together a large group of criminal defense attorneys who have devoted their careers to standing beside people accused of crimes in Central Illinois. Together, we have over 100 years of combined experience handling charges that involve allegations of violence and serious harm.
Because Johnson Law Group, LLC is one of the largest criminal defense firms in the area, we are able to put multiple minds to work on a case when that is useful. Our attorneys can collaborate on strategy, review discovery together, and provide coverage in court when schedules are demanding. For clients, that can mean more thorough preparation and fewer delays that come from one lawyer trying to do everything alone.
At the same time, we know that a violent crime charge is deeply personal. Our size does not change our commitment to knowing you as an individual. We work to ensure that you understand what is happening in your case, that your questions are answered, and that you are not treated as just another file.
Our Approach To Violent Crime Defense in Peoria
Being accused of a violent crime can have immediate and long-lasting consequences. At Johnson Law Group, LLC, we approach these cases with care, focus, and strategy, starting with a clear understanding of both the allegations and your experience.
From the outset, our goal is to build a defense that reflects the facts, protects your rights, and accounts for the real-world impact the case may have on your life. With us, you can expect that we:
- Take time to listen to your account and review charging documents, police reports, and initial discovery
- Evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case, including evidence collection, statements, identifications, and physical or digital proof
- Draw on more than 100 years of combined criminal defense experience handling violent crime cases in Central Illinois
- Consider broader consequences such as immigration status, professional licensing, employment, and family concerns
- Identify weaknesses in the state’s case, pursue appropriate pretrial motions, and prepare thoroughly for trial if necessary
- Provide informed guidance during plea discussions based on how similar cases are handled in Peoria County and surrounding courts
- Maintain clear, ongoing communication so you understand court dates, developments, and strategic options at every stage
Talk To Our Violent Crime Lawyers in Peoria Today
At Johnson Law Group, LLC, our violent crime attorneys bring the strength of one of the largest criminal defense firms in Central Illinois together with a commitment to personal attention. We draw on more than 100 years of combined experience to guide clients through the criminal process, explain options, and stand beside them in court. Your first step is a confidential conversation about your situation and your concerns.
To talk with a violent crime lawyer in Peoria and learn how we can help, call us today at (309) 565-8825 or fill out this online form.
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Mistakes are made, but if you're lucky you find the right people to help guide you through what you need to do to end up where you want to be. If your not lucky you can trust that Johnson Law Group will go the extra mile and put the work in to make sure yo- T.C.
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If you have found yourself in a criminal legal situation and need top-notch representation in Illinois...The Johnson Law Group is the only choice.- Brett Bins
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After a year of hard work, patience, and a lot of mitigation on my part, I ended up not serving any jail time and no probation either!! I'm so thankful and would highly recommend Johnson Law Group.- Anonymous
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Mr. Johnson, your lawyers did an exceptional job at keeping my husband out of jail after he caused the death of a motorcyclist several years ago.- Regina G.
Penalties and Sentencing for Violent Crimes in Illinois
In Illinois, the penalties for violent crimes are strictly codified and depend on the classification of the felony and the specific "aggravating factors" involved. Because these are considered "crimes of violence," they often bypass the standard probation options available for lower-level offenses.
The sentencing ranges for violent felonies in Peoria typically include:
- Class X Felony: This is the most serious class of felony in Illinois (excluding first-degree murder). It carries a mandatory prison sentence of 6 to 30 years, and judges are legally prohibited from granting probation. Charges like armed robbery and aggravated battery with a firearm often fall into this category.
- Class 1 Felony: Carries a sentencing range of 4 to 15 years in the Department of Corrections. While probation is sometimes possible, many violent Class 1 felonies are "non-probationable."
- Class 2 Felony: Punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison.
- Class 3 Felony: Punishable by 2 to 5 years in prison.
The Reality of "Truth-in-Sentencing"
Illinois applies Truth-in-Sentencing (TIS) laws to nearly all violent offenses, which severely limits a defendant's ability to earn "good time" credit. While a standard non-violent offender might serve only 50% of their sentence, those convicted of violent crimes face much stricter requirements:
- 100% Service: Required for First-Degree Murder.
- 85% Service: Required for most violent offenses, including aggravated battery involving great bodily harm, armed robbery, and home invasion.
- 75% Service: Applies to specific offenses such as aggravated battery with a firearm or certain stalking charges.
Furthermore, under the 2026 Truth-in-Sentencing updates (HB 4326), the state has reinforced that any violent act resulting in "great bodily harm" triggers these enhanced service requirements, meaning the sentence the judge hands down is very close to the actual time you will spend behind bars.
What To Do After An Arrest for a Violent Crime
An arrest for a violent crime often happens suddenly and can be extremely stressful. In those first hours and days, the choices you make may have a real impact on your case. Taking a few careful steps can help protect your rights and preserve important information.
Helpful steps to take after a violent crime arrest:
- Stay as calm as you can and focus on safety for yourself and others.
- Use your right to remain silent and avoid discussing the incident with police without an attorney present.
- Avoid contacting the alleged victim or potential witnesses on your own, even if you feel you could clear things up.
- Write down or safely store any information that might later help your defense, such as names, phone numbers, or locations.
- Contact Johnson Law Group, LLC as soon as possible so our attorneys can advise you before important decisions are made.
An early conversation with a lawyer can help you prepare for your first appearance in Peoria County criminal court, understand what bond conditions may be requested, and avoid statements that could be used against you later.
Many clients tell us that having a team they can reach out to, rather than one person who is difficult to contact, helps reduce their anxiety as the case moves forward.
Don't face a violent crime charge alone. Reach out to Johnson Law Group online or call (309) 565-8825 for a consultation with an experienced violent crime attorney in Peoria. Let our century of collective experience work for you.
The Team You Call When You Want to Win
Why Choose JLG?
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Over 100 Years of Combined Experience in Criminal Law
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Five Convenient Office Locations Throughout Central Illinois
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Highly Recognized & Award-Winning Attorneys
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Passionate Representation In & Out of the Courtroom
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Customized & Results-Driven Strategies
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Genuine Care for Our Clients' Legal Rights & Futures