Criminal Defense Backed by Over 25 Years of Combined Courtroom Experience
Facing felony charges in Peoria or the Greater Peoria Area can be overwhelming. Your freedom, record, and future may all be at risk. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we’ve defended clients throughout Central Illinois against serious charges ranging from drug offenses and aggravated assault to weapons violations and white-collar crimes.
With thousands of criminal cases handled, and a former prosecutor on our team, we approach every case with courtroom preparation from the start. We understand how prosecutors build their strategies because we’ve been on that side, too. That insight helps us build strong, clear defenses for the people we represent.
Call (309) 250-1871 or contact us online for a free consultation—virtual options available.
Local Representation That’s Trial-Ready from Day One
From the moment you contact us, our focus is protecting your rights, challenging the evidence, and guiding you forward with clarity. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we don’t overpromise, we do the work. That means reviewing police reports, questioning probable cause, challenging search warrants, and tailoring your defense to the facts of your case.
What Counts as a Felony in Illinois?
In Illinois, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison.
Felonies are classified into five categories based on severity:
Class X - 6 to 30 years in prison. Includes charges like armed robbery and aggravated criminal sexual assault.
Class 1 - 4 to 15 years. Includes offenses such as aggravated robbery or second-degree murder.
Class 2 - 3 to 7 years. Covers crimes like burglary and certain drug offenses.
Class 3 - 2 to 5 years. Examples include aggravated battery and theft over a certain value.
Class 4 - 1 to 3 years. Often charged for possession of controlled substances and some DUI offenses.
Note: In some cases, extended-term sentencing can apply, increasing the potential prison time based on prior convictions or aggravating factors.
Felony convictions carry consequences that go beyond time behind bars, such as difficulty finding work, loss of firearm rights, and a lasting criminal record. We’re here to help you understand your options and fight for your future.
Felony Charges We Handle
We represent individuals facing a wide range of felony charges across Peoria and Central Illinois, including:
Drug Possession & Distribution
Aggravated Assault & Battery
Armed Robbery
Burglary & Theft
Gun & Weapons Offenses
White-Collar Crimes (Fraud, Embezzlement)
Repeat or Aggravated DUI
Criminal Sexual Conduct
Felony Domestic Battery
Probation Violations
Vehicular Crimes (Hit & Run, Reckless Homicide)
What to Do If You’ve Been Charged
Whether your charges stem from a traffic stop, a domestic incident, or a recent arrest, getting legal guidance early can make a real difference. We’re here to listen, provide honest feedback, and help you navigate your next steps, without pressure or judgment.
With a background in prosecution, we know how the other side thinks—and how to build stronger defenses and smarter injury claims.
Local Experience, Proven Results
Born and raised here, we’ve handled thousands of cases across Illinois and recovered millions for clients in your community.
Trial-Ready Custom Strategy
Every case is prepared as if it’s going to court, giving you maximum leverage whether we’re negotiating or litigating.
24/7 Availability & Clear Communication
We’re always just a call away—and we make sure you’re informed at every stage of your case.
Why People in Peoria Turn to Schierer & Ritchie, LLC
We’re not a high-volume firm based out of town. We live and work in Peoria, and we bring over 25 years of combined local courtroom experience to every case. Our team includes a former prosecutor, which means we understand what you’re up against and how to push back. Clients come to us for reliable answers, respectful treatment, and tough defense strategies that make sense.
Let’s Talk—Start with a Free Consultation
Whether you’ve been arrested or just have questions about your situation, we’re ready to talk, virtually or in person.
Call (309) 250-1871 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.
“The results of having them on my case were better than I could have ever imagined and the level of care and compassion I received was next to none. On top of all of that, their skills and knowledge prevented me from receiving an undeserved felony charge.”
