St. Charles, IL Weapons Charges Defense Lawyers

Knowledgeable Weapons Charges Attorneys Defending Individuals in St. Charles, Illinois

People may use weapons in a variety of situations, including to defend themselves and their loved ones against potential threats. However, guns and other weapons can put people at risk of harm, and because of this, they are closely regulated. People who are accused of violating weapons laws may face criminal charges. Whether an alleged offense involves unlawful possession or illegal use of weapons, a conviction can result in multiple types of penalties that may affect a person's rights and their future opportunities.

Residents of St. Charles and the surrounding areas who are facing weapons will need to understand what steps they can take to mount a strategic defense. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our attorneys understand the issues involved in these cases, and we can help our clients build strong defense strategies. Our attorneys are known for thorough preparation, relentless advocacy, and a commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of people who have been accused of weapons crimes in Kane County and other parts of the Chicago area.

Types of Weapons Offenses in Illinois

Illinois has strict gun laws, and it also regulates other types of weapons. Violations of these laws can result in misdemeanor or felony charges. Some of the most common weapons-related crimes include:

• Unlawful Possession of Weapons: Various types of dangerous weapons are prohibited by state law, including switchblade knives, brass knuckles, and throwing stars. Other weapons, such as knives, razors, broken bottles, and stun guns, can result in criminal charges if a person allegedly intended to use them against someone else. In many cases, this offense is a Class A misdemeanor, but it may be elevated to a felony in certain situations. Possession of certain types of prohibited firearms, such as machine guns or assault weapons, may lead to more serious felony charges.
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW): This offense does not necessarily involve the active use of a firearm. It may apply when a person allegedly carries or transports a firearm without a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card or Concealed Carry permit. may also lead to weapons possession charges. While this is usually a Class A misdemeanor offense, a person may face felony charges if they allegedly carried a firearm in a school, public park, or courthouse.
• Reckless Discharge of a Firearm: Knowingly or recklessly firing a gun in a manner that endangers the safety of others can result in Class 4 felony charges. However, charges may be elevated to more serious felonies in certain situations, such as when a person allegedly fired at a police officer or first responder. Law enforcement takes these cases seriously, and a conviction may lead to prison time even if no one was harmed.
• Weapons Trafficking: Offenses involving illegal firearm sales are often aggressively prosecuted in Illinois. These offenses may involve selling firearms without performing the required background checks or transferring guns to people who are prohibited from possessing firearms due to felony convictions or other factors. Bringing firearms into Illinois from another state for the purposes of unlawful distribution may also lead to weapons trafficking charges. These offenses are typically charged as felonies, with more serious charges applying if a weapon was sold or transferred near a school, park, or public housing.

How Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. Can Defend Clients Facing Weapons Charges

Weapons cases often involve complex legal issues related to constitutional rights, including the right to bear arms under the Second Amendment and the protections against unlawful search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our attorneys can identify appropriate legal defenses and challenge procedural errors in these cases. We can address issues such as:

• Unlawful Traffic Stops or Searches: If law enforcement violated a person's rights when discovering a weapon, we may file a motion to suppress evidence.
• Lack of Knowledge or Possession: We may be able to demonstrate that a person did not knowingly possess a weapon that was found in a shared vehicle or residence.
• Valid FOID or CCL Status: We will look at whether the defendant had a valid firearm license at the time of the arrest or whether licensing issues were affected by administrative errors.

We will also explore options such as deferred prosecution, probation, or a reduction of charges, working to achieve outcomes that will minimize the potential penalties for our clients.

Contact Our St. Charles, IL Weapons Charges Defense Attorneys

When you are facing criminal charges related to firearms or other weapons, the attorneys at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. are ready to provide the aggressive defense you need. Get in touch with us today by calling 630-786-6062 to schedule a free consultation.