No matter what criminal charge you’re facing, being accused of a crime in Illinois is a grave matter. As Bloomington criminal defense lawyers in Illinois, the team at [firm-name](LINK 1) understands the stakes of your situation. We’re here to guide you through this complex, frightening legal process and protect your rights. As an established law firm with extensive experience in criminal defense cases, we’ve represented defendants in Central Illinois for over 40 years and have amassed a proven record of success.

Effective criminal defense representation is crucial for navigating the criminal justice system and addressing life-altering legal issues.

From drug charges and violent crimes to DUIs and sex offenses, we can provide the comprehensive legal support you need. Call Bruno Law Offices in Bloomington today at (217) 328-6000 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.

Why You Need a Bloomington Criminal Defense Attorney

No one, not even another lawyer, should face the criminal justice system without an experienced criminal defense attorney in Bloomington. There’s too much at stake for you to handle your case yourself. Some reasons you need a criminal defense lawyer in Bloomington includes:

Explaining the charges and penalties you face – You can’t defend yourself if you don’t understand what the authorities have accused you of. Criminal cases involve complex statutes, and your lawyer can explain the charges you face and the potential penalties. Once you know what you’re accused of, you’ll have a better idea of what evidence might help your defense.
Helping you make bail – You don’t want to spend any more time in police custody than necessary. While Illinois no longer uses cash bail, prosecutors can still make the case to keep you in police custody. A criminal defense attorney can counter the prosecutor’s arguments and work to get you released. Facing a criminal conviction is serious, and having proper legal representation is crucial to protect your personal freedom and rights.
Outlining your legal options – Most Illinois criminal cases don’t go to trial, but that doesn’t mean you should automatically accept a plea deal. It’s crucial to carefully weigh any plea deals against your other options, like arguing for a dismissal of your charges or going to trial. A Bloomington criminal defense attorney can evaluate your situation and help you find the best way forward. They can also explain the implications of pleading guilty and the importance of legal representation in negotiating plea bargains.
Protecting you from abuse by police or prosecutors – A lawyer can make sure the police and prosecutors honor your rights. For instance, if you did not receive your Miranda warnings, your attorney can fight to suppress any statements you gave the police.
Handling trial procedures – Criminal trials involve complex rules, and any missteps could jeopardize your case. Criminal defense lawyers understand trial procedures and can guide you through them.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

Our Bloomington, IL, defense attorneys can help you with many charges you might face, including:

DUIs – We can examine the case against you to see if the police made an illegal traffic stop or search. Our DUI defense lawyers can also see if any technical errors occurred when the police took a BAC reading.
Gun crimes – Weapons crimes in Illinois carry steep penalties and require a carefully considered defense strategy. We can look for evidence to show you didn’t possess the gun or that the police identified the wrong person.
Drug possession – Illinois has relaxed its laws on marijuana possession, but possessing other drugs remains a major offense. Our defense attorneys can see if the police performed an illegal search or argue that you did not possess the drugs. Having a lawyer to navigate drug offenses is crucial due to the severe potential consequences.
Violent crimes – Assault, battery, manslaughter, homicide, and other violent crimes carry some of the harshest penalties under Illinois law. We can help you argue that you acted in self-defense, suppress any illegally obtained evidence, or negotiate a plea agreement.
Sex offenses – Sexual assault, statutory rape, possession of child pornography, and other sex offenses can have catastrophic consequences if prosecutors convict you. We can look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as an unreliable victim or witness. We also know that a sex crime accusation can severely hurt your reputation, and we can help protect your public image.
Traffic violations – Traffic violations might seem like a nuisance, but they can have drastic consequences, including losing your driving privileges. Even minor offenses can impact a person’s criminal record. We can help you contest a traffic ticket by seeing if the police made an illegal stop or mishandled evidence.

Consulting with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Bloomington is crucial for developing a strategic defense plan and improving your chances of a favorable outcome.

What To Do If the Police Arrest You in Bloomington

Your actions from the moment the police take you into custody can dramatically impact your case. Here’s what to do to avoid jeopardizing your rights and freedom:

Ask for an attorney – Involving a lawyer early in your case is crucial to avoiding the worst possible outcome. Tell the police you want to speak to an attorney right away, then stay silent until your lawyer arrives.
Do not say anything to anyone without a lawyer present – You have the right to remain silent and should use it. Even if you’re innocent and tell the truth, the police can still use anything you say against you.
Do not resist arrest – The last you need is to make your situation worse and potentially add another charge by fighting the police. Go along with their commands while exercising your right to remain silent. If the police violated your rights, let your lawyer know and allow them to handle it.
Do not agree to any additional searches – You do not have to give the police permission to search your home, belongings, or your person. If they make a search anyway, note it and tell your lawyer later.
Do not sign or write anything – Your written words or signature can be damning in a criminal case. Therefore, don’t write anything down or sign anything the police or prosecutors give you until you talk to a lawyer.
Keep track of the details – Try to remember the names of the officers who arrested you and any other details of your arrest. These details might be important later, especially if the police violated your rights. Tell your lawyer everything you remember when you meet with them.

Obtaining a strong legal defense is crucial to protecting your rights after an arrest.

Contact a Bloomington, IL, Criminal Defense Lawyer Now

Facing criminal charges? Our law firm knows you’re scared and can provide the reassurance and robust legal support you need. Call Bruno Law Offices now at (217) 328-6000 or complete our contact form for a free case evaluation. Our legal team can help you get the justice you deserve for your criminal and/or felony charges.