Facing Criminal Charges in Tazewell County? Ms. Williams Will Fight to Protect Your Rights.
Being charged with a crime in Tazewell County can upend your entire life. Your job, your family, your reputation, and your freedom are all at stake. You need a criminal defense attorney who will listen to your situation carefully, prepare your defense thoroughly, fight aggressively to protect your rights, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Updated September 2026
With over 33 years of legal experience, Ms. Williams has dedicated her practice exclusively to criminal defense in Central Illinois. She regularly practices in the 10th Judicial Circuit at the Tazewell County Courthouse in Pekin and has built her career on the thorough preparation and persistent advocacy that her clients deserve.
Criminal Cases in Tazewell County
Tazewell County handles criminal cases from Pekin, East Peoria, Morton, Washington, and surrounding communities. The county sees a range of charges from drug offenses and theft to domestic violence, assault, and other felonies. Its proximity to Peoria means cases sometimes involve cross-county issues that require familiarity with both jurisdictions.
Criminal cases in Tazewell County are heard at the Tazewell County Courthouse, 342 Court Street, Pekin, IL 61554, as part of the 10th Judicial Circuit. Ms. Williams practices in Central Illinois courts and is thoroughly familiar with the procedures and local practices in Pekin.
How Ms. Williams Defends Criminal Cases in Tazewell County
Ms. Williams approaches every criminal case with four principles that set her apart from other attorneys: listening, preparing, protecting, and caring.
Listening comes first. She takes the time to hear your full story—the circumstances, the details, the things that worry you most. She asks questions. She pays attention to facts that other attorneys might overlook. She cannot build an effective defense without understanding your situation completely.
Preparing is where Ms. Williams distinguishes herself. She reviews all evidence, researches the applicable law, examines police procedures, and identifies every weakness in the prosecution's case. She prepares every case as though it will go to trial because that level of thoroughness produces better outcomes at every stage. She is also a member of the National College for DUI Defense and the American Association for Justice, and she regularly pursues advanced legal training and certifications—a commitment to continuing education that is rare among criminal defense attorneys.
In the Pekin courtroom, she protects her clients' rights with aggressive advocacy. She challenges improperly obtained evidence, questions the legality of searches and arrests, and holds the prosecution to its full burden of proof. She does not cut corners, and she does not give up when a case gets difficult.
And she cares about what happens to you and your family. She returns every phone call. She explains developments in plain English. She keeps you informed at every stage. With your permission, she keeps your family updated too—because she knows that criminal charges affect everyone who cares about you.
Criminal Charges Ms. Williams Defends in Tazewell County
◆ Drug Crimes
Possession, manufacturing, delivery, and trafficking charges. Ms. Williams challenges illegal searches, questions lab procedures, and fights for reduced charges or dismissal.
◆ Assault and Battery
Simple assault, aggravated assault, battery, and aggravated battery. She examines the circumstances of the alleged incident including self-defense claims and witness credibility.
◆ Theft and Burglary
Retail theft, burglary, robbery, and property crimes. Penalties vary widely, making experienced defense essential to protect your rights and minimize consequences.
◆ Domestic Violence
Domestic battery, orders of protection, and related charges. These cases carry serious consequences and require sensitive, thorough handling.
◆ Weapons Charges
Unlawful use of weapons, unlawful possession of a firearm, and related firearms charges. Illinois weapons laws are complex and carry severe penalties.
◆ Probation Violations
Alleged violations that could result in revocation and the original sentence being imposed. Ms. Williams defends against these allegations to keep you out of custody.
Frequently Asked Questions: Criminal Defense in Tazewell County
What should I do if I am arrested in Tazewell County?
Remain calm and be polite to law enforcement. Exercise your right to remain silent—do not answer questions about the alleged crime without an attorney present. Ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not sign anything without legal advice. Contact Ms. Williams as soon as you are able to schedule a consultation about your case.
Where are criminal cases heard in Tazewell County?
Criminal cases in Tazewell County are heard at the Tazewell County Courthouse, located at 342 Court Street, Pekin, IL 61554, as part of the 10th Judicial Circuit. Ms. Williams regularly practices in this courthouse and is thoroughly familiar with its procedures.
What types of criminal cases does Ms. Williams handle?
Ms. Williams handles all types of criminal cases in Tazewell County including drug charges, assault and battery, theft and burglary, domestic violence, weapons charges, probation violations, DUI, and sentence review motions including motions to reconsider sentence and motions for new trial.
How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?
Fees depend on the complexity of your case, the seriousness of the charges, and the work required. Ms. Williams provides clear, transparent fee information during your initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect before making any commitments.
Can criminal charges be reduced or dismissed?
Depending on the evidence and circumstances, 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. She will give you an honest assessment during your consultation—no false promises, just straightforward guidance.
How do I find a Tazewell County criminal defense attorney?
A Tazewell County criminal defense attorney should appear regularly at the Tazewell County Courthouse in Pekin — 342 Court Street — where all 10th Judicial Circuit criminal cases from the county are heard. Look for an attorney focused exclusively on criminal defense. Ms. Williams practices exclusively criminal defense in Central Illinois, has over 33 years of legal experience, and appears regularly at the Pekin courthouse. Call (309) 999-1177.
What does a criminal defense attorney in Tazewell County do for my case?
A criminal defense attorney in Tazewell County reviews every element of the prosecution: whether the arrest and search were legally conducted, whether evidence was properly collected and handled, and whether the charge is supported by the facts. Ms. Williams examines police reports, body camera footage, witness statements, and lab results — then builds a defense strategy around each case. She appears regularly at the Tazewell County Courthouse in Pekin and knows how 10th Judicial Circuit judges handle criminal proceedings.