Algonquin, Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorneys Defending Against Misdemeanor and Felony Charges in Algonquin

When you have been charged with a crime in Algonquin, your future is in jeopardy. If you are convicted, you may face penalties such as fines and jail or prison time. You will also have a permanent criminal record, which can have lasting effects on your employment, housing, and family life. Because prosecutors will often seek the maximum penalties available under Illinois law, you will need to make sure you are represented by an attorney who understands the system and who knows how to build a strong legal defense.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we have decades of experience in criminal law. We have represented clients in thousands of cases, addressing both misdemeanor and felony charges. We have been recognized both locally and nationally for our work in high-profile cases, which has included representation of well-known public figures like politicians and musicians, as well as prominent athletes and doctors.

When you are facing some of the most difficult moments of your life, our lawyers are here to help you. While our skill in the courtroom sets us apart, we also focus on meeting our clients' needs and guiding them through cases while fighting for the best possible results. From your initial arrest through pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, or trial, we will fight to protect your rights and make sure you will be able to move forward after your case is complete.

Attorney Spotlight

Attorney Spotlight

Donald Ramsell

Attorney Profile

Donald Ramsell is the author of leading publications on DUI defense in Illinois and has defended more than 10,000 DUI cases. Over the course of his career, he has represented clients in more than 500 bench trials and 100 jury trials, and he has even argued a case before the United States Supreme Court.

• National College of DUI Defense, Sustaining Member
• Top 100 Trial Lawyer Award, National Trial Lawyers
• Super Lawyers
• Elite Lawyer
• Leading Lawyers

Understanding Misdemeanor Charges

Misdemeanor charges may be considered "less serious" than felonies, but they should never be taken lightly. A misdemeanor conviction can lead to significant penalties, including a jail sentence, thousands of dollars in fines, probation, and a criminal record that will follow you for years. In Illinois, misdemeanors are divided into three main classes, each carrying different maximum penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanors: Up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500.
• Class B Misdemeanors: Up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,500.
• Class C Misdemeanors: Up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $1,500.

Examples of misdemeanor charges that Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. can help address include:

• First-time DUI: While some DUI offenses may rise to the level of felonies, a first DUI without aggravating circumstances is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor. In addition to other penalties, a conviction will result in a one-year driver's license revocation. Our attorneys can defend against DUI charges by challenging the legality of traffic stops and addressing field sobriety testing and chemical test results while fighting for a dismissal or reduced penalties.
• Retail Theft: Accusations of shoplifting of items valued less than $300 will typically result in misdemeanor charges. Our lawyers can review video footage in these cases and question the credibility of witnesses as we contest retail theft allegations and work toward outcomes such as deferred prosecution or dismissal.
• Simple Assault: Placing someone in fear of harm, even without physical contact, can lead to misdemeanor assault charges. Our attorneys will look at whether the evidence actually supports the claim that the alleged victim reasonably feared that they would suffer immediate harm.
• Traffic Crimes: Accusations of offenses such as reckless driving or driving with a suspended license can result in misdemeanor charges. These offenses may also lead to administrative consequences with the Illinois Secretary of State. Our lawyers will work to defend against convictions while helping take steps to prevent a driver's license suspension.

In cases involving misdemeanor charges, our attorneys will seek outcomes that will keep our clients out of jail and minimize the long-term damage to their records and reputations. We can negotiate for probation, court supervision, or participation in diversion programs. We may also be able to pursue a dismissal or acquittal by highlighting constitutional violations, evidentiary weaknesses, or procedural errors made by law enforcement.

Representation in McHenry County and Kane County Courts

For most people who are arrested in Algonquin, criminal cases will be handled at the McHenry County Courthouse, located at:

• 2200 N. Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, IL 60098

We serve clients in McHenry County from our office in Lake in the Hills, located at:

• 9 Crystal Lake Road, Suite 220, Lake in the Hills, IL 60156

Some parts of Algonquin are located in Kane County, and criminal cases may be handled at the Kane County Judicial Center, located at:

• 37W777 Route 38, St. Charles, Illinois 60175

We can provide representation in Kane County criminal cases from our St. Charles office, located at:

• 1121 E. Main Street, Suite 124, St. Charles, IL 60174

The Serious Consequences of Felony Charges

Felonies are the most serious offenses under Illinois law. Unlike misdemeanors, which may involve months in county jail, felony convictions can result in years or even decades in state prison. Illinois law categorizes felonies into five main classes:

• Class 4 felony: One to three years in prison
• Class 3 felony: Two to five years in prison
• Class 2 felony: Three to seven years in prison
• Class 1 felony: Four to 15 years in prison
• Class X felony: Six to 30 years in prison

Fines for felonies can reach up to $25,000, and collateral consequences often include the loss of voting rights while incarcerated, difficulty obtaining housing or employment, and restrictions on firearm ownership.

Common felony charges in Algonquin include:

• Drug Distribution or Drug Manufacturing: Possession of large amounts of controlled substances, an intent to sell or distribute drugs, or evidence that drugs are being produced or packaged with the intent of distribution can result in serious felony charges. Our lawyers can address issues such as illegal searches, lack of probable cause, or testing procedures to help defend against felony drug crime convictions.
• Burglary and Felony Theft: The theft of property valued at more than $500 may result in felony charges. Theft directly from a person using force or threats may lead to robbery charges. Burglary charges may apply if a person is accused of entering a home, business, or vehicle with the intent to commit theft or any other crime classified as a felony. Our attorneys can provide guidance on the best defense strategies in these cases, including demonstrating a lack of intent, mistaken identity, or inconsistencies in forensic evidence.
• Weapons Charges: Offenses such as unlawful use of a weapon or possession of a firearm by a felon may be classified as felonies. Our lawyers can address constitutional issues in these cases, working to protect our clients' Second Amendment rights or address unlawful and unreasonable searches.
• Aggravated Assault or Aggravated Battery: When a person is accused of inflicting serious bodily harm or using a weapon when committing assault or battery, the charges may be upgraded to felony-level offenses. Our attorneys can defend clients in these cases by highlighting self-defense claims, insufficient evidence, or witness credibility.
• Sex Crimes: Accusations of sexual assault, possession of child pornography, or other sexual offenses will typically be classified as felonies. These charges carry the possibility of lengthy prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Our lawyers can review digital evidence, forensic reports, and the credibility of witnesses to build strong defenses against these charges.
• Homicide Offenses: Murder and manslaughter are among the most serious charges a person can face. Our attorneys will provide aggressive representation in these cases, developing strategies that may include self-defense, challenging forensic analysis, or exposing flaws in the prosecution's timeline of events.

Contact Our Algonquin, IL Criminal Defense Attorneys

Whether you are facing misdemeanor charges or have been accused of a serious felony, you will need to make sure you take the right steps during your defense. The attorneys at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. have the legal knowledge and courtroom skills to help you develop a successful strategy that will help prevent a conviction or minimize your potential penalties. Contact our Algonquin misdemeanor and felony defense lawyers at 630-786-6062 to set up a free consultation.