Protecting Your Gun Rights: Chicago Criminal Firearm Defense Attorney
Police in Chicago and the surrounding areas have seized tens of thousands of guns and arrested thousands of people on gun charges in recent years. The reality is that arresting people for gun violations is a major focus for state and federal authorities in Illinois, and anyone facing a gun charge will need an experienced criminal defense attorney on their side as soon as possible.
Even gun owners who thought they had taken the proper steps to get a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card and a Conceal Carry License (CCL) find themselves facing felony gun charges in Illinois.
If this is your situation, you are not alone. Don’t let a mistake or misunderstanding threaten your rights and freedom. Put Fenbert & Associates on your side today. Founding attorney, Richard Fenbert, has extensive experience in FOID revocation cases, as well as defending clients against firearm offenses, including federal gun charges.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Strategies For Illinois Gun Crimes
There are many different types and degrees of gun charges. At Fenbert & Associates, attorney Fenbert helps clients who are accused of:
- The unlawful use of a weapon
- Aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and violent crime charges involving guns
- Possession of a gun without a valid FOID card or Concealed Carry License (CCL)
- Unlawful use of a weapon by a convicted felon
- Armed habitual criminal
- Unlawful sale of a weapon
- Aggravated discharge of a firearm
- Aggravated battery involving the use of a firearm
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Armed robbery
- Possession of a weapon during a drug offense
In many gun crime cases, a felony charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor charge with help from an experienced weapons defense attorney. An experienced attorney can dig deep into the prosecution’s case and fight to get the charge reduced or dismissed.
Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Crimes
Being accused of a gun crime can raise a lot of questions. In his many years of practice, criminal defense attorney Fenbert has compiled answers to some of the more commonly asked questions. For answers about your specific case, he also offers clients a free consultation.
What are the legal consequences of being charged with a gun crime in Chicago?
Being charged with a gun crime in Chicago can lead to serious legal consequences. Illinois has strict gun laws, and penalties can include hefty fines, probation, and imprisonment. For instance, unlawful possession of a firearm can result in a prison sentence, especially if the weapon was loaded or carried without a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card.
Aggravating factors, such as possessing a firearm in a school zone or during the commission of another crime, can increase the severity of the penalties. Additionally, a gun crime conviction may affect your ability to legally own firearms in the future. It’s important to understand that the specific consequences depend on the details of your case and your criminal history.
Can I be charged with a gun crime even if I wasn’t carrying the weapon in Illinois?
Yes, you can be charged with a gun crime in Illinois even if you weren’t physically carrying the weapon. Illinois law includes offenses such as unlawful possession or use of a firearm, which can apply if you had control or access to a weapon, even if it wasn’t on your person.
For example, if a firearm is found in your vehicle or home, you might face charges if you don’t have the proper permits or if the gun is linked to illegal activity. Additionally, being involved in a crime where a firearm was used, even if you didn’t personally handle the weapon, can lead to charges like armed robbery or conspiracy. Understanding the nuances of gun-related charges is important, and consulting with a criminal defense lawyer can help clarify your situation and explore defense options.
How can a criminal defense lawyer help with a gun crime charge in Illinois?
An experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands the Illinois gun laws and the criminal justice system will guide you through the legal process, protecting your rights and looking out for your best interests. A lawyer will be able to analyze the details of your specific case and identify if any of your rights were violated during the investigation or your arrest.
When appropriate, an attorney can challenge the legality of the search and seizure or question the validity of evidence presented by the prosecution. They can also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or seek alternative sentencing options. For example, probation or community service might be an option instead of jail time. A skilled lawyer will be your adviser throughout the legal process and can also represent you in court to present a strong defense on your behalf.
Defense Against State And Federal Gun Charges
Sometimes, gun charges in Illinois do not involve a violent act and instead result from alleged registration violations. In other cases, a person’s FOID card may be revoked in connection with a domestic violence charge or other criminal charge. Even if a separate charge is ultimately dropped, the accused individual will need to take steps to get their FOID card reinstated.
Federal gun charges require representation from an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer. Not every defense attorney handles federal cases. At Fenbert & Associates, attorney Fenbert does. The sooner you get an experienced lawyer involved in your case, the sooner someone is fighting on your behalf to protect your rights and freedom.
Contact A Chicago Guns Crime Lawyer For A Free Consultation
If you have been accused of a gun crime, an experienced Chicago weapons defense lawyer can significantly help the outcome of your case.
From his office in downtown Chicago, attorney Fenbert represents clients throughout Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will and the surrounding counties and can meet at any place or time that is convenient for you.
To schedule your free appointment, call Fenbert & Associates at 630-917-2051 or complete the online contact form.