Below are answers to questions that clients and their families commonly ask Ms. Williams. If you have a question that is not addressed here, call (309) 999-1177 to schedule a consultation.
Getting Started
What should I do if I am arrested?
Remain calm and be polite to law enforcement, but exercise your constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during any questioning. Do not answer questions about the alleged crime. Do not sign anything without legal advice. Ask for an attorney immediately. Once you are able, contact Ms. Williams to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.
Should I talk to the police before I have a lawyer?
No. You have the constitutional right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning. Politely decline to answer questions about the incident and ask for a lawyer. This applies even if officers say cooperation will help your case. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court—even statements you believe are helping explain your innocence. Protect yourself by exercising your rights and calling Ms. Williams.
How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?
Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of the case, the seriousness of the charges, and the amount of work required. Ms. Williams provides clear and transparent fee information during your initial consultation so you can make an informed decision before committing to anything. There are no hidden fees and no surprises.
What happens during a consultation with Ms. Williams?
Ms. Williams will listen carefully to your situation—every detail, every concern. She will ask questions to make sure she understands the full picture. Then she will give you an honest assessment of your case: what you are facing, what your options are, and what she recommends. She explains things in plain English, not legal jargon. You will leave the consultation understanding where you stand and what comes next.
Criminal Charges
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
In Illinois, misdemeanors are less serious offenses that carry penalties of up to 364 days (just under one year) in county jail. Common misdemeanors include Class A misdemeanor DUI (first offense), simple battery, retail theft of property under $300, and disorderly conduct. Felonies are more serious charges that can result in prison sentences exceeding one year. Felony convictions carry significant long-term consequences including difficulty finding employment, loss of certain civil rights, and a permanent criminal record that cannot be expunged. See also: Can a DUI Be Expunged. See also: First Offense DUI Defense.
Can criminal charges be dropped or reduced?
Depending on the evidence and the specific circumstances of your case, charges may be reduced to lesser offenses or dismissed entirely. Ms. Williams reviews all available evidence, identifies weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and fights for the best possible outcome. Every case is different—she will give you an honest assessment of what is realistically achievable during your consultation.
Will my case go to trial?
Most criminal cases are resolved before trial through various legal proceedings. However, Ms. Williams prepares every case as though it will go to trial because that level of preparation produces better outcomes at every stage. If trial is the best option for your defense, she is fully prepared and experienced to take your case before a judge or jury.
DUI Questions
How long do I have to request a hearing after a DUI arrest?
You have 90 days after the notice of statutory summary suspension served under 625 ILCS 5/11-501.1 to request a circuit court hearing under 625 ILCS 5/2-118.1. This deadline is strict—if you miss it, you lose the opportunity to challenge the suspension. Call Ms. Williams immediately after a DUI arrest to make sure your rights are preserved. Learn more on our DUI Defense page. See also: Illinois Driver's License Reinstatement.
Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?
A DUI arrest triggers an automatic statutory summary suspension of your driving privileges, but this suspension can be challenged. If you refused chemical testing, the suspension period is typically longer than if you submitted to testing. Ms. Williams can represent you at the suspension hearing and fight to protect your driving privileges.
Is a DUI a felony or misdemeanor?
A first-time DUI in Illinois is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor. However, DUI can be charged as a felony under certain circumstances—for example, if you have prior DUI convictions, if someone was injured, or if you were driving without a valid license. The specific facts of your case determine the charges and potential penalties.
Sentence Review
What is a motion to reconsider sentence?
A motion to reconsider sentence asks the trial court to review a sentence that has already been imposed and potentially reduce it. The motion can argue that the sentence was excessive, that important mitigating factors were not properly considered, or that circumstances support a different outcome. This motion must be filed within 30 days after sentencing (730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-50(d)). Learn more on our Sentence Review page. See also: Motion to Reconsider Sentence in Illinois.
What is a motion for a new trial?
A motion for a new trial asks the court to set aside a guilty verdict based on errors that occurred during the original proceedings. Grounds may include newly discovered evidence, legal errors, procedural violations, or ineffective assistance of counsel. Like other post-trial motions, strict deadlines apply.
Working With Ms. Williams
What counties does Ms. Williams serve?
Ms. Williams serves 13 counties throughout Central Illinois: Peoria, McLean, Tazewell, LaSalle, Macon, Marshall, Stark, Putnam, Logan, DeWitt, Livingston, Fulton, and Knox counties. She has over 33 years of legal experience and practices regularly in these courts. Visit our Areas Served page for county-specific information.
What sets Ms. Williams apart from other defense attorneys?
Ms. Williams approaches every case with four principles that define her practice: she listens carefully to understand your situation completely, she prepares your defense thoroughly and relentlessly, she fights aggressively to protect your rights and freedom, and she genuinely cares about what happens to you and your family. She is also a member of the National College for DUI Defense and the American Association for Justice, and she pursues advanced legal education and certifications year-round—a commitment to preparation that is rare among criminal defense attorneys.
Will Ms. Williams keep my family informed?
Yes, with your permission. Ms. Williams understands that criminal charges affect the entire family. She is willing to keep your spouse, parents, or other loved ones updated on developments in your case so they know what is happening and what to expect. Many clients and their families say this level of communication was one of the most valuable aspects of working with her.