Chicago, IL Gun Crimes Defense Attorney

Dedicated Lawyer for Weapons Charges and Related Offenses in Chicago, Illinois

Illinois has strict gun laws, and there are many reasons why people may be arrested for violations of these laws and charged with weapons offenses. A conviction for a gun-related offense can lead to serious consequences, and in addition to the possibility of jail time and large fines, a person's ability to possess and use firearms in the future could be affected. Even a first-time offense involving a firearm may result in felony charges with mandatory prison time, so it is essential to determine the best defense strategies in these situations.

When facing gun charges, you will need to work with a skilled criminal defense attorney who understands Illinois weapons laws and knows how to fight back against these accusations. Miranda Law Office, LTD works with clients who are facing accusations of gun crimes in Chicago and the surrounding areas. Attorney Miranda previously worked as a Cook County prosecutor, and he has over 20 years of experience in matters related to criminal law. With deep roots in the local community and the ability to serve clients in both English and Spanish, our firm can provide the legal help you need during your criminal case.

Common Firearms and Weapons Charges in Illinois

Illinois law strictly regulates the possession, carrying, and use of firearms and other weapons. Some of the offenses that people may be charged with include:

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) – 720 ILCS 5/24-1: This statute covers a wide range of conduct, including carrying a concealed firearm without a concealed carry license. A person can be charged with UUW even if a weapon was not fired or displayed. Many offenses under this statute are charged as Class A misdemeanors, but felony charges may apply in some situations.
• Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6: This is a felony offense that applies in situations where a firearm is carried in a vehicle or on one's person without proper licensing, particularly in areas where firearms are prohibited. In these cases, a person may face Class 4 felony charges.
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.1: Certain people are prohibited from possessing guns, including those who have been convicted of felony offenses in Illinois or other states. This offense can lead to Class 3 felony charges.
• Reckless Discharge of a Firearm – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.5: A person may be charged with this offense if they fire a gun in a way that puts the safety of others at risk. This is a Class 4 felony.
• Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.2: More serious charges may apply if a person is accused of firing a gun at a building or vehicle that they know is occupied or firing a gun toward certain people, such as police officers or first responders. This offense may lead to Class 1 felony charges, although Class X felony charges may apply if a gun was allegedly fired in a school or on school property.
• Unlawful Sale or Transfer of Firearms – 720 ILCS 5/24-3: Selling or giving a firearm to someone without following the applicable state and federal regulations is a criminal offense. Class 4 felony charges will usually apply in these cases, although an offense may be classified as a more serious felony if a gun was sold or given to a minor or a person who is addicted to drugs.
• Possession of a Firearm With an Altered Serial Number – 720 ILCS 5/24-5: Purposely altering serial numbers on a gun is a Class 2 felony offense, while knowingly possessing a gun with a serial number that has been defaced or removed is a Class 3 felony

Defense Strategies for Firearms and Weapons Charges

To protect your rights when you are charged with gun crimes, you will need an experienced attorney on your side. At Miranda Law Office, LTD, we will evaluate every aspect of your case to identify the strongest defense strategies, which may include:

• Challenging Unlawful Searches: If police violated your constitutional rights during a traffic stop, a search of your vehicle or home, or an arrest, evidence related to firearms that were seized may be suppressed.
• Questioning Possession: Our attorney may be able to show that you were unaware of a firearm and did not know that it was on your property.
• Valid Licensing or Exemptions: We may take steps to demonstrate that you had a valid FOID card or concealed carry permit or were covered by an exception to Illinois law.
• Negotiating for Reduced Charges: In some cases, it may be possible to resolve a case through plea agreements that will reduce the potential penalties and help you avoid a felony conviction.

Contact Our Chicago Gun Crimes Defense Lawyer

Following an arrest for a firearms or weapons offense, it is important to work with a defense attorney who understands Illinois gun laws and who will fight to protect your rights. Miranda Law Office, LTD can provide you with aggressive representation, helping you take steps to resolve your case successfully. Contact our Chicago, IL weapons crimes attorney at 773-588-3822 to arrange a confidential consultation.