Felonies Proven Results. Personal Representation.

Felony Attorney in Champaign

Direct Representation from a Former Prosecutor

Felony charges demand careful attention to the allegations, evidence, and potential penalties under state law. At Cisco Law, clients work directly with attorney Jeffrey Cisco from the initial consultation through the resolution of their case. Cases aren’t passed between case managers or a rotating group of associates.

He previously served as an Assistant State’s Attorney, and that prosecutorial background informs how we assess charging decisions, identify legal and factual issues, and prepare for court. He brings more than 20 years of legal experience to felony defense in Central Illinois courts.

Speak directly with a felony attorney about the charge and your next court date. Call (217) 339-3547 to take the first step.

Felony Charges We Handle in Champaign

The charge language, alleged conduct, prior history, and applicable statute determine whether an offense is prosecuted as a felony and what sentencing exposure may apply.

Our confirmed felony defense services include:

These allegations aren’t felonies in every case. The same broad offense category can carry different classifications and possible penalties based on the alleged facts, statutory elements, and a person’s criminal history.

Felony cases in the local court system are heard at the Champaign County Courthouse in Urbana, part of the Sixth Judicial Circuit of Illinois. We serve individuals and families throughout Champaign-Urbana and surrounding Central Illinois communities.

Illinois Felony Classes & Prison Terms

Illinois law defines a felony as an offense for which imprisonment in a penitentiary for one year or more is authorized. Felonies are divided into classes with different statutory sentencing ranges. These ranges describe imprisonment authorized by law, not the sentence a particular person will receive.

The standard imprisonment ranges for Illinois felony classes are:

Class 4 felony: One to three years.
Class 3 felony: Two to five years.
Class 2 felony: Three to seven years.
Class 1 felony: Four to 15 years.
Class X felony: Generally six to 30 years.

First-degree murder is treated as a separate, more serious category with distinct sentencing provisions. For any felony allegation, the exact statute and classification must be identified before the possible sentencing framework can be assessed.

Sentencing exposure is only one part of the analysis. The alleged facts, procedural history, available evidence, and legal issues can all affect how a criminal case develops. A felony attorney can review those details in the context of the specific charge rather than treating a statutory range as a prediction.

Continue Reading Read Less

Let's Discuss Your Case

Get a Free Consultation

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Cisco Law at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Why Choose Cisco Law?

The Right Firm Makes a Difference

Aggressive Representation Backed by Experience

With more than 20 years of legal experience, we prepare every case thoroughly and advocate for our clients.
Record-Setting Trial Experience
As plaintiffs' counsel in Illinois' historic $535 million verdict, Jeffrey Cisco brings proven courtroom experience to every case.
Former Prosecutor Advantage
Benefit from an attorney who understands both sides of the courtroom and knows how to build a strong case.
Millions Recovered for Injury Victims
Our proven track record reflects our commitment to securing meaningful results for those we've represented.
Direct Access to Your Attorney
Work directly with your attorney and receive responsive communication throughout your case.
Free Consultations Available
Get the answers you need with a free consultation and straightforward legal guidance.

Experience You Can Trust

See Why Clients Choose Cisco Law

"His expertise in the courtroom was evident."
He took the time to explain every step, answered all my questions patiently, and truly cared about my well-being.

- Avari N.
"The kind of lawyer you want in your corner!"
Cisco Law is the place to go for personal injury! Jeff is a knowledgeable attorney with a lot of care and compassion.

- Carmen E.
"High level of professionalism."
I am very grateful for all the help I received from Jeff Cisco and his assistant Krista. At any time I needed them they were always available to help.

- Former Client
"He was always available via phone or email to answer any questions."
Many thanks to the team at Cisco Law for their assistance in what otherwise would have been a very stressful situation.

- Heather C.
"I highly recommend his services to anyone in need!"
Jeff is awesome and always goes above and beyond. He takes his time if you ever need him to explain something you don’t understand. He always is available and responds when you call or reach out to him in a timely manner.

- Haydee C.
"He went above and beyond."
I am very impressed with and highly recommend Jeff Cisco at Cisco Law. He is very professional and followed through with what he said he would do, as well as hit the relevant deadlines. I'm happy to report we were successful in the case.

- Melissa I.
"Integrity, dedication, and a genuine commitment to his clients."
Jeff is very down to earth, approachable, and truly goes above and beyond to ensure his clients feel informed and supported. His professionalism, work ethic, and attention to detail make a meaningful difference during what can often be a stressful time.

- Kim M.
"I highly recommend Jeff."
If you are looking for trusted legal guidance who will genuinely fight for you and protect your rights, look no further, Jeff is someone who is committed to doing the work and advocating for his clients.

- Cam S.

View All Reviews

Discuss Your Felony Charge Directly with Attorney Cisco

We offer a free initial consultation in person or virtually. Charging documents, available police reports, upcoming court dates, and information about custody status can give us a useful starting point. If some documents are unavailable, you can still contact us to discuss the allegation and determine what information is needed.

When you hire Cisco Law, you communicate directly with him about your defense and the decisions that arise during the case.

Call (217) 339-3547 or submit the contact form to arrange a free, confidential consultation with our felony lawyer in Champaign.

What Happens After a Felony Arrest or Charge?

A felony case can move from an arrest or formal charge through initial court appearances, evidence review, resolution discussions, trial, and sentencing if there’s a conviction. Court dates, release conditions, charging decisions, and timing depend on the allegations and the applicable court process.

Initial Court Proceedings

Early proceedings address the pending accusation and the conditions under which the case moves forward. A defendant should track every scheduled appearance and comply with all release conditions. The precise sequence depends on how the case began and what the court orders.

Evidence & Legal Review

A defense attorney reviews the allegation, available evidence, procedural history, and legal questions relevant to the charge. This may include determining whether the alleged facts satisfy each statutory element and identifying issues that affect how evidence may be used. The available material and disputed issues vary by case.

Negotiations, Trial & Sentencing

Some cases involve discussions about a potential resolution, while others proceed toward trial. If a conviction occurs, sentencing is governed by the offense, its felony classification, and the applicable statutes. A statutory range isn’t a forecast of an individual outcome.

Probation Eligibility & Collateral Consequences

In Illinois, probation isn’t permitted for a Class X felony. For other felony charges, eligibility depends on the offense and applicable sentencing provisions. Eligibility alone doesn’t establish what sentence a court may impose.

A felony conviction can affect employment opportunities, housing applications, firearm rights, professional licensing, immigration matters, and child custody issues. These consequences fall outside the direct criminal sentence and can continue after incarceration, probation, or another court-imposed sentence ends. Their application depends on the conviction and the person’s circumstances.

Continue Reading Read Less

Take the First Step

Schedule Your Free Consultation

With decades of courtroom experience and a commitment to every client, we're ready to help.

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Cisco Law at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

217-339-3547

Locations

201 W. Springfield Ave.
Suite 1004
Champaign, IL 61820
Map & Directions