What Is a Class 3 Felony in Illinois?

Anyone arrested for a Class 3 felony in Illinois is facing serious charges and should fully understand not only what a Class 3 felony is, but what the possible consequences are if convicted.

Illinois crimes are classified according to how seriously they are regarded.  Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, which are broken down into five classifications, from most serious to least: Class X, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 and Class 4. Although a Class 3 felony is the second-least serious of all felony charges, it still may bring severe punishments, including fines, prison time, and the possibility of having to make restitution to the crime’s victim.

If you have been accused of a Class 3 felony in Illinois, be aware that even an allegation of a felony offense can have a devastating effect on your reputation, livelihood and overall well-being. If you are convicted, you will have a criminal record that will follow you and affect the rest of your life, including your family and relationships, your education and career prospects, and even your chances of getting decent housing. Even after serving a prison sentence, a felony conviction can result in years of parole conditions and restrictions on your rights. The conviction will remain on your criminal record unless you are able to get the charge expunged.

Anyone charged with a felony needs the best defense available, as prosecutors will be fighting to impose the steepest of punishments.  The seasoned Illinois criminal defense attorneys at Wolfe & Stec, Ltd. have extensive experience handling all levels of felony offenses. We know the court system and the judges, and we will work tirelessly to reach an outcome that is favorable to you. Our attorneys are thorough in the investigation process of a criminal case and make every effort to settle cases outside the courtroom. If an agreement cannot be reached, we are experienced trial lawyers and know how to defend you in court and fight for your rights and liberty.

We offer a free consultation to examine the facts of your situation, so contact us online or call our offices today to set up your free consultation.

What is a Class 3 felony in Illinois?

The following are the types of criminal offenses likely to be classified as Class 3 felonies by Illinois courts:

• Drug crimes – may be labeled as Class 3 based on the amount and type of drug, whether they are intended for use or sale, and whether they were knowingly manufactured, distributed, advertised, or possessed with intent to manufacture or distribute a look-alike substance.
• Child pornography – also requires registering as a sex offender on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry for a period of your natural life.
• Aggravated battery – involves knowingly causing great bodily harm, permanent disability or disfigurement to another person, or when the injury is to a child, person over 60, person with a physical or intellectual disability, or to certain types of workers, including policemen, teachers, public transit workers, and nurses.
• Theft — between $300 and $2,000.
• Threatening public officials.
• Reckless discharge of a firearm.
• Criminal sexual assault.

What are Punishments for Class 3 felonies?

Under Illinois sentencing law, Class 3 felonies may bring sentences of between 2 and 5 years in prison. In addition, a Class 3 felony with an extended-term sentence may mean 5 to 10 years in prison. Extended terms can be imposed if aggravating factors exist, such as prior criminal convictions, for a hate crime, or if the victim is over age 60 (730 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/5-4.5-40). Class 3 felony convictions can also include fines of up to $25,000.

Some Class 3 felony convictions may allow alternative sentencing options, including periodic imprisonment, impact incarceration, probation, and conditional discharge.

Put Your Trust In Us — Contact Wolfe & Stec, Ltd. For A Free Consultation

If you have been arrested for a Class 3 felony or any other criminal charge in Illinois, you need to hire the best criminal defense attorney that you can find.  Your case may seem impossible, but with skillful representation you have a chance. Remember, the law places a heavy burden on the government, and you must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The criminal defense lawyers at Wolfe & Stec, Ltd. are skilled trial lawyers who believe each case is unique, with its own set of circumstances. Whether your criminal law case is seemingly straightforward or highly complicated, we can help.  We know the judges and the court system and will aggressively explore every avenue for your defense.  We examine the facts, the individuals involved, and the evidence available, and work hand in hand with our clients throughout the criminal process. We explain all elements and processes of the case and come up with an effective defense strategy. Our goal is always to minimize the negative impact of the situation and to focus on protecting your freedoms, liberties and rights.

Don’t delay – call or contact us online for help today if you have been accused of any criminal charges. Our Illinois criminal defense lawyers represent clients in DuPage County, Naperville, Aurora, Wheaton, Downers Grove and Bolingbrook, Illinois, and the greater Chicagoland area.