Home Invasion

If you or a loved one has been charged with Home Invasion in Illinois, you are facing one of the most serious felony charges under Illinois law. Home Invasion is a Class X felony, carrying severe penalties, including mandatory prison time. A conviction can permanently alter your life, leading to significant prison sentences, a criminal record, and long-term consequences that affect your employment, housing, and personal relationships.

James Dimeas has decades of experience successfully defending individuals charged with serious criminal offenses, including Home Invasion. If you have been accused of Home Invasion, it is critical that you contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. Attorney James Dimeas is a highly skilled and aggressive criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of Home Invasion cases and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.

What is Home Invasion in Illinois?

Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/19-6), Home Invasion occurs when a person knowingly enters another person’s dwelling place without permission, or remains in the home after gaining entry, while armed with a dangerous weapon or firearm, and:

• Uses or threatens force upon a person inside the dwelling
• Causes injury to someone inside
• Uses or threatens to use a firearm
• Commits a sexual assault or other violent act while inside

Unlike Residential Burglary, which involves unlawful entry with the intent to commit a crime inside, Home Invasion specifically involves the use or threat of force against an occupant. Because of this distinction, the penalties are much more severe.

The Penalties for Home Invasion in Illinois

Home Invasion is classified as a Class X felony, which means that if convicted, you are facing a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 6 to 30 years. Unlike other felony offenses, probation is not an option for a Class X felony, meaning you will be sentenced to state prison if found guilty. Additionally, if a firearm is used during the commission of the offense, additional sentencing enhancements apply:

• If you were armed with a firearm: An additional 15 years in prison
• If you discharged a firearm: An additional 20 years in prison
• If you caused great bodily harm or death using a firearm: A mandatory additional 25 years to life in prison

These harsh penalties make it absolutely crucial that you work with an experienced Home Invasion defense lawyer who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s case and build a strong defense on your behalf.

Defending Against a Home Invasion Charge

A Home Invasion charge is serious, but it does not automatically mean you will be convicted. Attorney James Dimeas has successfully defended countless individuals charged with Home Invasion by using strategic defense tactics, including:

1. Challenging Unlawful Entry and Presence – The prosecution must prove that you entered or remained in the dwelling unlawfully. If there is evidence that you had permission to be in the home, or there is a lack of clarity about the entry, this can be a strong defense.
2. Lack of Intent – In many cases, the prosecution must show that you knowingly committed a crime while inside. If there was no intent to cause harm or commit an offense, your charges could be reduced or dismissed.
3. Mistaken Identity – If you were falsely accused or misidentified as the suspect, we can challenge eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, and other evidence to prove your innocence.
4. Self-Defense or Defense of Others – If you entered the residence to protect yourself or another person from imminent harm, we can argue that your actions were justified.
5. Illegal Search and Seizure – If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights by conducting an unlawful search, obtaining evidence illegally, or making an arrest without probable cause, we can file motions to suppress evidence and potentially have your charges dismissed.

Why Choose Attorney James Dimeas for Your Home Invasion Defense?

James Dimeas is a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience representing clients in Illinois facing serious felony charges. When your freedom is on the line, you need an attorney who understands the legal system and has a proven track record of success in handling Home Invasion cases. Here’s why clients trust James Dimeas:

• Extensive Criminal Defense Experience – Decades of experience defending clients against felony charges, including Home Invasion.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies – A proactive approach to challenging the prosecution’s case and uncovering weaknesses in the evidence.
• Personalized Legal Representation – Each case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategy to fit your specific circumstances.
• Proven Courtroom Success – Attorney James Dimeas has successfully litigated countless cases, securing dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable verdicts.
• Available 24/7 for Clients – We understand that criminal charges are stressful, and we are available at all times to provide guidance and support.

What to Do If You Are Charged with Home Invasion

If you or a loved one is facing Home Invasion charges, you need to act quickly to protect your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Remain Silent – Do not talk to the police or make any statements without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
2. Contact an Experienced Home Invasion Defense Lawyer – The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of building a strong defense.
3. Gather Evidence – If possible, document any evidence that may support your defense, including text messages, emails, witness statements, or video footage.
4. Follow Your Lawyer’s Advice – Home Invasion cases are complex, and your attorney will provide you with the best strategy for your defense.

Contact James Dimeas for a Free Consultation

A Home Invasion charge can be life-changing, but with the right defense lawyer, you have the opportunity to fight the charges and secure your future. Attorney James Dimeas has the experience, dedication, and knowledge needed to aggressively defend you against Home Invasion allegations.

Contact James Dimeas at (847) 807-7405, or fill out our convenient online form for a free and confidential consultation. We will discuss your case, explain your legal options, and begin building a powerful defense to protect your freedom. Don’t wait—contact James Dimeas today and take the first step toward safeguarding your rights and your future.