Most crimes are charged and prosecuted at the state level. While the types of conduct considered criminal are relatively constant throughout the U.S., each state is unique and Illinois is no exception. For instance, Illinois lawmakers abolished the death penalty in 2011 and banned the sale or importation of shark fins in 2013. Other laws affect criminal sentencing and procedures. If you have been charged with a crime in Illinois or are just curious, FindLaw's Illinois Criminal Laws section covers everything from drug possession and wire fraud to sexual assault and murder. Click on a link below to learn more.
