A Class X felony is the most serious felony you can commit in Illinois. If convicted of a Class X felony, the judge must sentence you to a minimum number of years in jail.
With other categories of certain felony convictions, the judge may have discretion to provide an alternative to jail time. This is not the case with a Class X felony. Illinois law sets strict parameters for sentencing in Class X felony cases.
Minimum mandatory jail sentence for a Class X felony
The minimum mandatory jail term for a Class X felony in Illinois is six years. What this means is that if the courts convict you of a crime within this class, the judge has no choice but to sentence you to at least six years in prison. The maximum sentence for a crime in this class is 30 years, although certain offenses can result in a life sentence under Illinois habitual offender laws. A Class X felony conviction renders you ineligible for the state’s impact imprisonment program or for periodic imprisonment.
Alternatives to jail time aren’t available
For some crimes, the judge may use his or her discretion to dole out alternative sentences. Alternative sentences include credit for home detention, electronic monitoring and home detention in lieu of jail time, and probation. For individuals who commit Class X felonies, these alternatives are not an option.
Parole upon release
Not only is alternative sentencing not an option, but also, once released, the courts will require you to undergo a minimum of three years of supervision. This term is non-negotiable.
As you can see, the penalties for a Class X felony are severe and life-changing. If you face Class X felony charges, it is critical that you enlist an experienced attorney to defend your case.