When someone is convicted of a crime, Illinois courts tend to take many factors into consideration when determining the specific charges and penalties. Judges examine whether there are any mitigating circumstances, or factors that might convince them to hand down a more lenient punishment than usual. These can include the defendant’s background and motives, whether he or she has shown remorse, the severity of the crime in question, and other relevant issues.
In recent years, as awareness of the impact of mental health on behavior has increased, mental illness has been included in the list of mitigating factors considered by judges when determining a sentence. While a history of psychological impairments does not mean a defendant’s charges are dropped, it can make a significant difference in the penalties he or she might face. If you have suffered from mental health issues and are facing criminal charges, contact an accomplished Cook County, IL criminal defense attorney to discuss how best to proceed.