Most of us assume that if we are charged with a criminal offense, we will also be arrested. That may or may not be the case in Illinois. Depending on the crime and the circumstances, you could potentially face criminal charges without ever being handcuffed or taken into custody. It is important that you understand how charging decisions are made and when an arrest is required.
It is also important to understand how summonses and notices to appear are issued, and what your response should be. This can help you avoid a serious legal misstep that could be difficult to recover from. An experienced Rolling Meadows, IL criminal defense lawyer is your best resource to answer your questions and ensure your rights are protected.
Charged But Not Arrested
A charge is a formal accusation of a criminal offense, while an arrest involves taking a person into custody, booking them, and potentially holding them in jail. Although charges and arrests usually go hand-in-hand, there are four specific circumstances under which you could be charged but not arrested. These include: