The Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Peoria, Illinois
Finding yourself in need of a criminal defense lawyer can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. You likely have a million thoughts racing through your mind – Will I go to jail? Will I lose my job? How will this impact my family? What will my friends think? It’s easy to feel alone and not know where to turn.
The good news is that Peoria has many excellent criminal defense attorneys who are experienced, compassionate, and ready to fight for you. Having the right lawyer by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. This article provides an overview of some of the top-rated criminal lawyers in the Peoria area who have proven track records of achieving successful results for their clients.
What to Look for in a Peoria Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Peoria, some key factors to evaluate as you choose the right criminal defense lawyer include:
- Experience – You’ll want an attorney who regularly handles criminal cases similar to yours. Look for someone who has represented many clients facing the same charges.
- Track Record – Do they have a history of positive case results like dismissals, acquittals, reduced sentences and dropped charges? This demonstrates their ability to effectively defend clients.
- Reputation – Check reviews and testimonials to understand the lawyer’s reputation in the legal community. Highly regarded lawyers will have many glowing client reviews.
- Resources – Does the attorney have the resources and manpower to thoroughly investigate your case and build the strongest defense? Solo practitioners are often overburdened.
- Communication – Look for a lawyer who is responsive, understanding, and keeps you informed every step of the way. You need an advocate in your corner.
- Affordability – Rates can vary widely, so be sure to get clear information upfront about legal fees and payment options. Don’t be afraid to discuss costs.
Top Criminal Defense Law Firms in Peoria
Here are some of the top-rated criminal defense firms in the Peoria area to consider if you’re searching for legal representation:
Williams, Williams, & Bembenek
With over 25 years of experience, the skilled attorneys at Williams, Williams, & Bembenek have established themselves as leading Peoria criminal defense lawyers through their relentless advocacy for clients. Founding partner Dick Williams is highly respected for his mastery of criminal law and record of trial success. The firm handles both misdemeanors and complex felonies ranging from DUIs and drug charges to white collar crimes.
Critser Law Office
Don Critser is a former state prosecutor who opened his own Peoria criminal defense firm in 2012. His background on both sides of criminal law provides invaluable perspective for mounting an aggressive defense. Critser Law Office handles all types of charges from traffic violations up to murder. Attorney Critser is known for his meticulous case preparation and fierce courtroom litigation skills.
Roth Law Group
Led by the accomplished Bradley Roth, Roth Law Group provides seasoned legal representation in criminal matters across Central Illinois. Bradley Roth is a Peoria native who has practiced criminal law his entire career, giving him deep roots in the local court system. He takes an individualized approach to each case, exploring every angle before determining the optimal defense strategy.
Heyl Royster
Heyl Royster is a large regional firm with a team of criminal defense lawyers based in its Peoria office. Their attorneys include former state prosecutors as well as public defenders. With its vast resources and multi-attorney teams, Heyl Royster has the capacity to handle complex criminal cases involving multiple charges and significant penalties. The firm regularly defends corporations and executives facing white collar criminal allegations.
Miller, Hall & Triggs
Known for its success defending DUIs and traffic-related crimes, Miller, Hall & Triggs has secured many dismissals and acquittals for clients charged with driving offenses. The firm’s attorneys understand the complexities of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests. They identify technical flaws that enable charges to be reduced or dropped. For those convicted, Miller, Hall & Triggs has negotiated shortened or minimum sentences along with reinstatement of driving privileges.
Solo Practitioner Criminal Defense Lawyers
In addition to larger firms, Peoria has a number of accomplished solo criminal defense practitioners. Here are a few to research if you prefer an attorney who can provide focused one-on-one attention:
- Tom Penn – A former public defender, Penn has over 20 years experience representing clients in criminal and DUI/DWI cases. He is known for his tenacious trial advocacy.
- Linda Shapiro – Shapiro served as an Assistant State’s Attorney before entering private practice. Her background as a prosecutor provides unique insight into building an effective defense.
- David Price – With deep roots in the Peoria legal community, Price is a seasoned trial lawyer who has handled over 130 jury trials across 30 years of criminal defense work.
- Joseph Napoli – Napoli focuses on defending those accused of sex crimes. His compassionate approach has led to many favorable outcomes for clients facing serious sex offense charges.
Finding the Right Peoria Criminal Defense Lawyer for You
Facing criminal charges is daunting, but the right Peoria criminal defense lawyer can empower you to navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome. Be sure to meet with attorneys before retaining one. Discuss your case details, specific approach, and legal fees. Listen to your gut – you want a lawyer who earns your trust and makes you feel confident. With an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner, you can face the charges with much greater peace of mind.