If you’re charged with a crime in Illinois, it could be a misdemeanor or a felony. Both types of crimes are categorized into classes, and each class carries its own penalties. The classes of felonies in Illinois range in severity from Class 4 to Class X, with Class 4 being the “least serious.” Here’s a closer look at each felony class and what could happen to you if you’re convicted of one.
Classes of Felonies in Illinois
- Class 4 felonies are punishable by 1 to 3 years in prison
- Class 3 felonies are punishable by 2 to 5 years in prison
- Class 2 felonies are punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison
- Class 1 felonies are punishable by 4 to 15 years in prison
- Class X felonies are punishable by 6 to 30 years in prison
Here’s a closer look at each.
Class 4 Felonies in Illinois
If you’re convicted of a Class 4 felony, you could face between 1 and 3 years in prison. The judge in your case can also order you to pay up to $25,000 in fines.
Common Class 4 felonies include:
- Aggravated assault
- Stalking
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Driving on a revoked driver’s license
- Theft
Class 3 Felonies in Illinois
A Class 3 felony conviction can result in 2 to 5 years in prison, as well as fines of up to $25,000.
Common Class 3 felonies include:
- Aggravated battery
- Aggravated identity theft below $300
- Forgery
- Reckless homicide
- Manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance
Class 2 Felonies in Illinois
If you’re convicted of a Class 2 felony, the judge in your case can sentence you to 3 to 7 years in prison. He or she can also order you to pay fines of up to $25,000.
Common Class 2 felonies include:
- Arson
- Drug possession
- Theft
- Rape
- Burglary
Class 1 Felonies in Illinois
You can go to prison for 4 to 15 years if the court convicts you of a Class 1 felony in Illinois. Additionally, the judge can sentence you to pay up to $25,000 in fines.
Common Class 1 felonies include:
- Criminal sexual assault
- Cannabis trafficking
- Aggravated discharge of a firearm
- Second-degree murder
- Carjacking
- Child pornography
- Solicitation of a child
- Promoting juvenile prostitution
Class X Felonies in Illinois
If you’re convicted of a Class X felony, you could go to prison for between 6 and 30 years. The court can also fine you up to $25,000.
Common Class X felonies include:
- Aggravated battery of a child
- Homicide
- Aggravated criminal sexual battery
- Armed robbery
- Making terrorist threats
- Solicitation for murder
Have You Been Accused of Any of These Classes of Felonies in Illinois?
If you’ve been accused of a felony in Illinois, we may be able to help you. Call us right away at 847-920-4540 for a free consultation.
