Getting arrested or charged with a crime is overwhelming, especially if this is your first time in serious trouble. You may be asking yourself the same question over and over: “Am I going to go to jail?” The truth is that the answer depends on many factors, such as what crime you are charged with, your past record, and how good your Rolling Meadows criminal defense attorney is.
First, you need to have a basic understanding of how the Illinois criminal system works. Knowing the fundamentals about crimes, bail, plea deals, and alternatives to jail can help you take the next step with a clearer head.
Which Crimes Usually Lead to Jail Time?
Not every charge ends in a jail sentence. In Illinois, crimes are divided into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies.
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Misdemeanors are less serious crimes. They carry possible jail sentences of up to one year in a county jail. Common misdemeanors include simple battery, petty theft, trespassing, and driving on a suspended license. Many misdemeanor cases end with probation, fines, or community service instead of jail, especially if it is your first offense.