According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Illinois ranks second in animal protection laws among other U.S. states. Still, many people don’t know about animal abuse laws or the penalties associated with violating these laws. Our Illinois animal crime defense attorney prepared this guide to help Illinois residents understand what actions these laws criminalize and the severity of the punishment imposed.
If you’re facing charges for animal crimes in Illinois, contact The Jordan Law Firm to discuss your case.
Illinois Animal Crimes: An Overview
Illinois defines “animal” as every living creature, both domestic and wild. That means the statutes apply to household pets like cats and dogs as well as other animals that most people do not consider “domestic.”
At the lowest level, Illinois requires animal owners to provide their animals with:
- A sufficient quantity of good quality food and water;
- Adequate shelter and protection from the elements;
- Veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering; and
- Humane care and treatment.
A failure to comply with these requirements warrants charging the owner of the animal with a violation of this law, which amounts to a Class B misdemeanor. A Class B misdemeanor carries the potential of up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,500 in fines. Additionally, the court may order the defendant to undergo psychological or psychiatric evaluations at his or her own expense.
The statute specifically allows dog owners to tether the dog outdoors, as long as the owner complies with certain requirements described in that section.
If you have questions about these requirements, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Illinois animal crime defense lawyer at The Jordan Law Firm.
Animal Cruelty
510 ILCS 70/3.01 defines the cruel treatment of animals. This statute prohibits all individuals from beating, cruelly treating, tormenting, starving, or otherwise abusing any animal. The statute also prohibits pet owners from abandoning their pet in a place where it could become a public charge or suffer injury, hunger, or exposure. The section also states that dog and cat owners may not expose their pets in a manner that places the dog or cat in a life-threatening situation for a prolonged period of time. Illinois considers a violation of this section a Class A misdemeanor. Class A misdemeanors carry a potential of up to 364 days in jail and up to a $2,500 fine.
Additionally, the court may order the defendant to undergo psychological or psychiatric evaluations at their own expense.
Aggravated Animal Cruelty
Illinois defines aggravated animal cruelty as an intentional act that causes a companion animal to suffer serious injury or death. Knowingly or intentionally euthanizing or allowing the euthanasia of a companion animal without a licensed veterinarian is also considered aggravated animal cruelty. Illinois considers aggravated animal cruelty a Class 4 felony. A Class 4 felony carries the potential of up to three years in prison. If an extended time period applies, the Class 4 felony carries the potential of up to six years in prison.
Additionally, the court may order the defendant to undergo psychological or psychiatric evaluations at their own expense.
Animal Torture
510 ILCS 70/3.03 defines animal torture. Animal torture occurs when a person knowingly or intentionally tortures an animal without legal justification. The statute defines torture as the infliction of or subjection to extreme physical pain. Illinois considers animal torture a Class 3 felony. A Class 3 felony carries the potential of up to five years in prison. If an extended time period applies, the Class 3 felony carries the potential of up to 10 years in prison.
Additionally, the court may order the defendant to undergo psychological or psychiatric evaluations at their own expense.
Contact an Illinois Animal Crime Defense Attorney Today
At The Jordan Law Firm, we understand the seriousness of facing any criminal charge. We are committed to providing the best possible defense to help our clients obtain the most favorable result possible under the law. Our founding lawyer Anisa Jordan previously worked as a prosecutor, litigating hundreds of cases on behalf of the state. Now, our lawyer Jordan uses her in-depth knowledge of how the prosecution will attempt to prove its case to defend her clients in court. Our Illinois animal crime defense attorney Jordan has earned the reputation of a hard-working, aggressive trial lawyer who is well respected by her peers. When your freedom is on the line, don’t settle for less than the very best. Contact our office today to book an appointment with an Illinois animal crime defense lawyer.
