Miller, Charles Matthew

After graduating from Illinois Valley Central High School in Chillicothe, Illinois, I enlisted in the United States Navy where I spent the next four years serving my country at home and overseas. I was stationed at many places throughout the country, including Illinois, California and Texas. I served overseas for over two years at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I still value and use the many skills I learned in the military such as discipline, hard work, integrity, toughness and persistence.

When my enlistment was up, I came back to Illinois and attended Illinois State University. I pursued a degree in Political Science, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree, Magna Cum Laude. While a student at Illinois State University, I became a member of Golden Key International Honor Society and President of Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society).

After graduating from Illinois State University, I enrolled in law school at Northern Illinois College of Law where I was on the Dean's list for four semesters. During law school I became fascinated with criminal law and the criminal justice system. I worked as a student attorney at the Peoria County State's Attorney's Office and completed my first jury trial while still in law school. I then became a student attorney at the Northern Illinois College of Law Criminal Defense Clinic, defending indigent clients under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

After graduating from law school and passing the Illinois Bar Examination, I accepted a position as an Assistant State's Attorney in Peoria County, where I was in court everyday of the week trying cases. While at the Peoria County State's Attorney's Office, I received rapid promotion, from traffic to misdemeanor prosecutor after only three months (the normal promotion time is nine months to one year).

While an Assistant State's Attorney, I gained a lot of experience in the courtroom, often undergoing a trial every week, which enhanced my trial skills.

In April 2008, I opened my own law practice with my business partner and former prosecutor, Robert Pugh. Criminal, Traffic and DUI defense continue to be my areas of concentration. I enjoy the work and derive a great deal of satisfaction utilizing my knowledge and skills fighting to achieve the best results for my clients and protecting their constitutional rights.