Bloomingdale, IL Criminal Defense Lawyers

Respected Criminal Defense Attorneys Defending Clients in Bloomingdale, Illinois

Being charged with a crime can be very frightening. Whether you are facing allegations of a misdemeanor or felony offense, the consequences of a conviction may include a prison sentence, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record that could affect your ability to find work, secure housing, or maintain a good reputation. If you are facing criminal charges in Bloomingdale or elsewhere in DuPage County, you need a defense team that will fight for your rights and work to secure the best possible outcome to your case.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our attorneys have been representing clients in criminal matters since 1986, and we have the knowledge and courtroom experience necessary to handle even the most serious charges. We are committed to protecting your freedom and your future, and we can develop a strategic approach that will help you achieve success.

Defense Against Violent Crime Charges

Violent crimes are among the most aggressively prosecuted offenses in Illinois. These charges often involve significant prison sentences, and they are frequently classified as felonies. However, not all allegations of violence are as clear-cut as they seem. Many cases involve self-defense, mutual confrontations, or unreliable witness accounts.

We represent clients in Bloomingdale who have been charged with offenses such as:

• Assault and aggravated assault
• Battery and aggravated battery
• Domestic battery
• Homicide or attempted murder

Self-Defense and Other Legal Defenses

In many violent crime cases, self-defense or defense of others may apply. Illinois law allows the use of force when a person reasonably believes it is necessary to protect themselves or someone else from imminent harm. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we can analyze police reports, medical records, surveillance footage, and witness statements to support a self-defense claim when appropriate.

Other viable defenses may include:

• Lack of intent to cause harm
• False accusations made during heated personal disputes
• Mistaken identity
• Violations of constitutional rights, such as coerced confessions

We will work to uncover the full context of what happened and build a strong case to fight for a dismissal, acquittal, or reduction in charges.

Property Crime Defense

Property crimes can range from minor theft offenses to major felonies involving significant financial losses. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we defend clients accused of property-related offenses, including:

Theft and Shoplifting

Theft involves taking someone else's property without consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Shoplifting, or retail theft, includes actions like concealing merchandise, altering price tags, or failing to scan items at self-checkout. Depending on the value of property that was allegedly stolen, a person may be charged with either a misdemeanor or felony offense. In these cases, we can challenge the prosecution's evidence, question claims of intent, and explore alternatives such as diversion or court supervision when appropriate.

Robbery and Burglary

Robbery involves taking property from a person by force or through threats. It is a Class 2 felony, with enhanced penalties for aggravated robbery or armed robbery. Burglary occurs when a person unlawfully enters a building or vehicle with the intent to commit theft or another felony. It is typically charged as a Class 2 felony, but charges may increase if the location is a residence or if damage was allegedly caused during the break-in. We can explore defenses against robbery or burglary charges, such as mistaken identity, lack of intent, and challenges to how evidence was obtained.

Arson

A person may be charged with arson if they are accused of purposely damaging someone else's property by setting a fire or causing an explosion. Arson is a felony, but if the offense involves occupied structures, religious buildings, or injuries, charges may be elevated to aggravated arson, a more serious felony offense. We work with fire investigators and forensic experts to challenge claims that a fire was intentionally set and dispute the prosecution's interpretation of the evidence.

Weapons Charges

Illinois enforces strict laws regarding the possession and use of firearms and other weapons. People may be charged with weapons offenses even if they never brandished or discharged a weapon. Common weapons charges include:

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW): This offense may involve possessing a firearm in a vehicle or public place without a valid FOID card or concealed carry license, and other unauthorized uses of firearms.
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms or Ammunition: Certain people, such as those who have been convicted of felonies, are prohibited from possessing firearms, and they may face criminal charges if they are accused of doing so.
• Possession of Illegal Weapons: Machine guns, silencers, switchblades, short-barreled rifles, and bombs or explosives are illegal to possess in Illinois. Illegal weapons uncovered in searches by police officers may result in criminal charges.
• Reckless Discharge of a Firearm:Firing a gun in a way that put other people at risk of injury is considered a criminal offense.
• Unlawful Sale or Transfer of Firearms: A person who sells or distributes firearms to others without a valid license and without following the correct legal procedures could be charged with a weapons offense.

Contact Our Bloomingdale, Illinois Criminal Defense Attorneys

Do not delay in seeking legal counsel after being charged with a crime. The Bloomingdale criminal defense lawyers at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. are ready to fight for your rights and protect your future. To arrange your free consultation, call us today at 630-786-6062 or contact us online.