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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking
Charged with Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Aggravated vehicular hijacking is one of the most serious criminal offenses in Illinois, carrying extremely harsh penalties, including lengthy imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges of aggravated vehicular hijacking in Chicago, it is crucial to have an experienced and aggressive defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking in Illinois
Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/18-4, aggravated vehicular hijacking occurs when an individual commits vehicular hijacking—a forcible taking of a motor vehicle from another person—and one or more aggravating factors are present. These factors elevate the offense from standard vehicular hijacking to aggravated vehicular hijacking, making it a more severe crime with correspondingly harsher penalties.
Common aggravating factors include:
Victim Under 16 or Over 60: If the victim of the hijacking is a child under the age of 16 or a senior citizen over the age of 60, the charge is elevated to aggravated vehicular hijacking.
Firearm or Dangerous Weapon: If the hijacking was committed while the defendant was armed with a firearm or other dangerous weapon, the charge is elevated.
Discharge of a Firearm: If the firearm was discharged during the hijacking, especially if it caused injury or death, the crime is further aggravated.
Physical Harm: If the victim was physically harmed during the hijacking, this also serves as an aggravating factor.
These aggravating factors not only make the crime more serious but also significantly increase the potential penalties upon conviction.
Penalties for Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking in Chicago
The penalties for aggravated vehicular hijacking in Illinois are severe and can have lifelong consequences:
Class X Felony: Aggravated vehicular hijacking is classified as a Class X felony, the most severe felony classification in Illinois short of murder. This carries a mandatory prison sentence of 6 to 30 years, with no possibility of probation.
Extended Sentencing: Depending on the specific circumstances, such as the use of a firearm or causing great bodily harm, the prison sentence can be extended to up to 45 years or more.
Fines: In addition to imprisonment, a conviction can result in fines of up to $25,000.
Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for aggravated vehicular hijacking will result in a permanent criminal record, severely impacting your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities in the future.
Given these severe penalties, it is essential to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your future.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?
Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling serious violent crime cases, including aggravated vehicular hijacking. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.
When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s thorough understanding of Illinois criminal laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.
Defending Against Charges of Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking in Chicago
Successfully defending against charges of aggravated vehicular hijacking requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing every piece of evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:
Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person responsible for the hijacking, Andrew will work to uncover evidence that points to your innocence.
Lack of Aggravating Factors: Andrew may argue that the alleged aggravating factors do not apply or that they were not present, which could lead to a reduction of the charges to standard vehicular hijacking.
Coercion or Duress: In some cases, defendants may have been coerced or forced to commit the hijacking under threat from another party. Andrew may argue that you were not acting of your own free will.
Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation—such as through unlawful search, seizure, or coercion—Andrew may be able to have key evidence suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.
Andrew will work tirelessly to build a strong defense, aiming to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea, or secure an acquittal.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
If you have been charged with aggravated vehicular hijacking, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense
Facing charges of aggravated vehicular hijacking can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you have been arrested or charged with aggravated vehicular hijacking in Chicago, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.
Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.
Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.
February 1, 2025
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