The most common causes of being charged with Criminal Damage are:

– Damaging or defacing another’s property

– Tampering with another’s property, causing significant damge to the value or function of said property

– Defacing or placing graffiti on signs and buildings, whether public or private

The seriousness of the charge usually depends on the value of the damage caused.  Fines will be asses to individuals found guilty of criminal damage to property, and jail sentences may also be levied for those with previous criminal records.  Examples of charges and jail times for criminal damage are as follows:

Criminal Damage Chart – Maximum Sentences

Depending on your circumstances and seriousness of the charge – for example, if you are first time juvenile offender – the judge may be inclined to be more lenient and reduce the sentence to fines, community service, or other appropriate punishments.

If you or your juvenile child have been charged with damage to property, please contact the criminal damage lawyers at Franks & Rechenberg, P.C., for a free initial consultation.  David B. Franks has extensive experience both prosecuting and defending within the Illinois Criminal Justice system and can help you achieve a positive outcome.

Call 847-854-7700 to arrange an appointment.  Mr. Franks handles criminal cases in McHenry County, Kane County, and Boone County.