RESOURCE CENTER
Legal information, resources, and guidance for understanding arrest records and the criminal justice process in Effingham County
Know Your Rights
IF YOU ARE STOPPED BY POLICE:
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you are going, where you came from, or what you are doing.
- You have the right to refuse consent to a search of yourself, your car, or your home.
- If you are not under arrest, you have the right to calmly leave.
- You have the right to a lawyer if you are arrested. Ask for one immediately.
- Stay calm and keep your hands visible. Do not argue, resist, or obstruct the officer.
IF YOU ARE ARRESTED:
- You have the right to remain silent. Say: "I wish to remain silent."
- You have the right to a lawyer. Say: "I want to speak to a lawyer."
- Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney.
- You have the right to make a local phone call.
- You should be taken before a judge within 48 hours (72 hours on weekends/holidays).
MIRANDA RIGHTS:
"You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you."
⚠ IMPORTANT: This is general information only. For specific legal advice, consult an attorney.
Legal Terminology Guide
Arrest
The act of detaining a person by legal authority, typically for allegedly committing a crime.
Bail
Money or property pledged to the court to temporarily release someone from jail with the promise they will return for trial.
Bond
A written agreement to pay a specific amount if the defendant fails to appear in court.
Charge
A formal accusation of a criminal offense.
Misdemeanor
A minor criminal offense, typically punishable by fine or up to one year in jail.
Felony
A serious criminal offense, typically punishable by more than one year in prison.
Arraignment
The first court appearance where charges are read and the defendant enters a plea.
Plea
The defendant's formal response to criminal charges (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
Disposition
The final outcome or resolution of a criminal case.
Probation
A sentence allowing a person to remain in the community under supervision instead of going to jail.
Warrant
A legal document issued by a judge authorizing law enforcement to make an arrest or conduct a search.
Indictment
A formal written accusation charging someone with a crime, issued by a grand jury.
DUI/DWI
Driving Under the Influence / Driving While Intoxicated - operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Battery
Intentional and unlawful physical contact with another person.
Assault
An attempt or threat to cause bodily harm to another person.
Burglary
Unlawful entry into a building with intent to commit a crime, typically theft.
Common Offense Categories
TRAFFIC OFFENSES
- • DUI/DWI
- • Suspended License
- • Reckless Driving
- • No Insurance
- • Speeding
PROPERTY CRIMES
- • Theft/Larceny
- • Burglary
- • Criminal Damage
- • Trespassing
- • Shoplifting
VIOLENT CRIMES
- • Battery
- • Assault
- • Domestic Battery
- • Robbery
- • Aggravated Assault
DRUG OFFENSES
- • Possession
- • Manufacturing
- • Distribution
- • Paraphernalia
- • Trafficking
PUBLIC ORDER
- • Disorderly Conduct
- • Public Intoxication
- • Resisting Arrest
- • Obstruction
- • Weapons Violations
OTHER OFFENSES
- • Warrant
- • Probation Violation
- • Fraud
- • Forgery
- • Identity Theft
Legal Aid & Resources
Effingham County Public Defender
Provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford an attorney.
Phone: (217) 342-6535
Address: Effingham County Courthouse, 101 N 4th St, Effingham, IL 62401
Effingham County Circuit Clerk
Court records, case information, and filing services.
Phone: (217) 342-6535
Website: co.effingham.il.us/circuit-clerk
Land of Lincoln Legal Aid
Free civil legal services for low-income individuals in Illinois.
Phone: (877) 342-7891
Website: llls.org
Illinois State Bar Association
Lawyer referral service and legal information.
Phone: (800) 252-8916
Website: isba.org
4th Judicial Circuit Court
Effingham County court schedules and information.
Phone: (217) 342-6535
Address: 101 N 4th St, Effingham, IL 62401
Local Bail Bond Services
24-hour bail bond services available in Effingham County.
Contact the Effingham County Sheriff's Office at (217) 342-2101 for information about bail procedures and approved bail bond agents.
Arrest Process in Effingham County
How to Read Arrest Records
The information provided on this page is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws and procedures vary and change over time. For specific legal guidance regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified attorney licensed to practice in Illinois.