Cheronis & Parente LLC
Particularly for first-time offenders, being charged with a crime is like being dropped into an alien world without a map. All of the legal terminology can seem like a completely different language. The criminal justice system can be extremely confusing. At Cheronis & Parente LLC in Chicago, we are here to be your guides through the process. To start with, here are some answers to common questions that may prove helpful:
Misdemeanors are relatively minor crimes punished by fines and jail time. They are divided into three categories: Class A misdemeanors, Class B misdemeanors and Class C misdemeanors. Class A is the most serious and Class C is the least serious of misdemeanors.
Felonies are major crimes punished by fines and time in a state penitentiary. They are divided into five categories: Class X felonies, Class 1 felonies, Class 2 felonies, Class 3 felonies and Class 4 felonies. Class X is the most severe and Class 4 is the least severe of felony charges.
Incarceration is a threat that must be taken seriously. That being said, it tends to be a greater threat for people accused of serious misdemeanors, felonies or repeat offenses. First-time offenders accused of minor misdemeanors are often able to avoid jail or get on a diversion program with the help of an experienced attorney.
A plea agreement, also referred to as a plea bargain, is a negotiated outcome. This is when a defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or in exchange for a reduced or deferred sentence. The majority of criminal defense cases are resolved this way. This may be a positive outcome, particularly if a felony can be reduced to a misdemeanor, or if penalties can be reduced to avoid time behind bars. A deferred sentence, in particular, could result in charges ultimately being dismissed if the terms of the deferral are met. An experienced lawyer will help you pursue the best possible plea agreement or push for a trial.
This is a surprisingly complicated question. While the majority of criminal defense cases do not go to trial, you want to make certain you have an attorney on your side with trial experience in case yours is one of the few that does. Furthermore, a trial attorney will leverage the possibility of trial in order to obtain a better plea deal.
Make certain the attorney has handled cases like yours before. This is particularly important when you get into serious felony cases and federal cases, as not all criminal defense attorneys handle these types of cases. What kind of outcomes has the attorney received in these types of cases? Additionally, what does the attorney’s peers have to say about his or her work?
Our lawyers have handled the most complex and challenging criminal defense cases, and we have the case results to prove it. We have achieved many honors and awards from our peers and from the community as a whole.
Call 312-663-4644 or email us to schedule your initial consultation.
Real Cases — Real People — Real Results
Easy to work with – and hard to work against. A veteran of many high profile federal and state cases, clients are often surprised by how approachable they find Damon. But having seen him at trial dozens of times over the years, I can attest to his powerful motions practice, ability to conduct relentless cross-examinations, and give moving openings/closings. With personal and professional qualities that make him easy to work with – and hard to work against – anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney would be in great hands with Damon Cheronis.
Andy B. Chicago, IL
A lawyer who truly cares and listens to his clients. Damon, is a lawyer who truly cares and listens to his clients. He was totally prepared for the case so he was never surprised by the prosecutions evidence or arguments. He and was able to put the prosecutors in a defensive mode. He was by far the best attorney in the court room. I would highly recommend him to everyone.
John D. Chicago, IL
More than just and attorney! Very professional, always pays attention to detail and hungry to fight for his clients. The price I paid does come close to how hard he works. More than just and attorney! I definitely would recommend Damon to anyone I knew who needed a good attorney.
Ashley C. Chicago, IL
