Expert Criminal Defense in Peoria | Brave Law Center, P.C.

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Peoria, IL & Central Illinois

Facing Criminal Charges? Understanding Your Next Steps

Being arrested or charged with a crime is a serious and stressful experience. The uncertainty of what comes next can be overwhelming, leaving you concerned about your freedom, your family, and your future. During this critical time, the most important step you can take is to secure representation from a dedicated criminal defense attorney who understands the local legal landscape.

At Brave Law Center, P.C., we pair clear, straightforward legal guidance with a compassionate understanding of the challenges you face. Our commitment is to represent you with integrity and protect your rights at every stage of the legal process. As your criminal lawyer, we will demystify the complexities of your case, ensure your voice is heard, and fight for the best possible outcome. We proudly serve clients throughout Central Illinois, including Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Fulton counties.

Common Criminal Cases We Handle in Central Illinois

Our deep understanding of Illinois law and local court procedures allows us to effectively manage a variety of common and complex criminal matters.

Navigating a Felony Arrest: If you have been arrested for a felony, the actions you take in the first few hours are critical. It is essential to exercise your right to remain silent and contact an attorney immediately. We provide the urgent counsel needed to prevent missteps and begin building your defense from day one.
The Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction: Many people underestimate the impact of a misdemeanor. Beyond the immediate penalties, a conviction can create long-term barriers to employment, housing opportunities, and professional licensing. We work to mitigate these consequences by seeking dismissals, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing.
Challenging DUI Evidence: A DUI charge is not an automatic conviction. There are many avenues to beat a DUI charge in Illinois, including questioning the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of breathalyzer calibration, or the administration of sobriety tests. Our team knows how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Our Legal Process: From Arrest to Resolution

We believe a structured and transparent approach leads to the best results and provides our clients with peace of mind. While every case is unique, our process is designed for thoroughness and strategic action.

Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation We begin by listening. We take the time to understand the details of your situation, answer your questions, and provide a clear assessment of your legal options.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering Our team conducts a comprehensive investigation into your case, meticulously reviewing police reports, witness statements, body camera footage, and all other available evidence.
Strategic Defense Development Leveraging our complete understanding of the case, we develop a defense strategy created for your specific circumstances. Founder Jason Netzley’s experience as a former prosecutor gives our firm a distinct advantage in anticipating the opposition’s tactics.
Negotiation & Litigation We are skilled negotiators who often resolve cases favorably through discussions with the state’s attorney. However, when a trial is in your best interest, we are prepared to be zealous advocates in the courtroom, fighting to protect your freedom.

The Benefits of a Strategic Criminal Defense

Hiring an experienced criminal defense firm provides more than just legal representation; it provides a strategic advantage. With Brave Law Center, P.C. on your side, you can expect:

Protection of Your Constitutional Rights
A Thorough Investigation to Uncover Favorable Evidence
Strategic Action Aimed at Reducing or Dismissing Charges
Guidance to Minimize Potential Penalties and Fines
An Experienced Partner to Navigate the Complex Court System

Defending Clients Across the Greater Peoria Area

Brave Law Center, P.C. is a Central Illinois law firm with deep roots in the communities we serve. Our attorneys are familiar with the courthouses, judges, and prosecutors in Peoria County, Tazewell County, Woodford County, and Fulton County.

We represent clients in Peoria, East Peoria, Pekin, Washington, Morton, Eureka, Canton, Chillicothe, and the surrounding areas. Our primary office is conveniently located in Peoria.

Peoria Office:330 NE Perry Ave.
Peoria, IL 61603
Phone:309-685-7900

Why Choose Brave Law Center, P.C.?

When your future is on the line, the law firm you choose matters.

Experience from Both Sides: Attorney Jason B. Netzley began his career as an assistant state’s attorney. This experience as a prosecutor provides him with a unique and invaluable perspective on how the other side builds its case, allowing our team to craft more effective and proactive defense strategies.
Client-Centered Philosophy: We understand that we meet people during the most stressful times of their lives. Attorney Amanda K. Stanley’s philosophy is to empower clients, helping them get their lives back on track and ensuring they have the tools to be successful long after their case is resolved.
Proven Local Trust: Our commitment to professional, person-oriented service has earned the trust of clients throughout Central Illinois

What Our

Clients Say

"I would suggest Jason Netzley and his team at Brave Law for any criminal defense or family case to anyone. They do a professional job, and do it in a friendly manner!"

- Chris, East Peoria

"Very knowledgeable on family law and criminal law. Person-oriented and family-oriented. Jason puts his client first and their needs to meet the case at hand.”

- Ralph, Metamora

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Criminal Law

What are my rights if I am arrested in Illinois?

You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. It is crucial to invoke these rights and not answer questions from law enforcement without your lawyer present.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

A misdemeanor is a less serious offense, typically punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines. A felony is a much more serious crime that carries a potential sentence of one year or more in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

How is someone formally charged with a crime in Illinois?

After an arrest, the State's Attorney's office reviews the evidence. For a felony, a grand jury or a judge must find that there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed. If probable cause is found, the defendant is formally charged at an arraignment.

How long does the prosecution have to file charges against me?

This is determined by the statute of limitations. In Illinois, the prosecution generally has three years to file charges for most felonies and 18 months for most misdemeanors from the date the offense occurred.

Will I have to serve my full sentence if convicted of a violent crime?

Illinois has "Truth in Sentencing" laws that require individuals convicted of certain serious, violent offenses to serve at least 85% of their prison sentence.

Take Control of Your Case – Contact Our Peoria Defense Team Today

Do not let a criminal charge define your future. The time to act is now. A proactive defense is the most effective defense.

Contact Brave Law Center, P.C. to request a reservation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Let us help you navigate this challenge and fight for the positive outcome you need.

Call our Peoria office today at 309-685-7900 or reach out to us online.