Crystal Lake, IL Criminal Defense Attorneys

Lawyers for DUI, Theft, Drug Crimes, and Violent Crimes in Crystal Lake, Illinois

Being arrested and taken into custody by police officers can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, the stakes of your case are high. A criminal conviction may not only result in penalties such as jail time and heavy fines, but you will have a permanent criminal record that may make it more difficult to find work, rent or buy a home, and maintain relationships with your children or other family members.

You need to make sure you take the correct steps when defending against criminal charges. The legal process followed in McHenry County courts can be complex, and without extensive legal experience, you will not know what steps you will need to take to defend against a criminal conviction. Legal guidance from a skilled attorney is essential, and when you have an experienced advocate in your corner, you can make sure your rights will be protected.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we can provide the representation you need as you address criminal charges. We have the experience needed to ensure that your case will be handled correctly. We will work closely with you to develop a defense strategy based on the specific facts involved in your case. At all times, we will fight to protect your rights while advocating for an outcome that will minimize the penalties you may face and ensure that you will be able to move forward with your life.

Our lawyers have decades of trial experience in which we have helped thousands of clients resolve criminal cases. We have a record of success that includes cases involving high-profile clients such as doctors, musicians, politicians, and athletes. We have appeared in news sources throughout the country, which has given us the reputation of being skilled advocates who always advocate aggressively for our clients. With our proven skills, which have been recognized through numerous awards and testimonials from former clients, we are ready to help you resolve your criminal case successfully.

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

DUI Charges

There are many reasons why people may be charged with driving under the influence (DUI). In addition to claims of alcohol intoxication, DUI charges may be based on the use of marijuana, prescription drugs, or controlled substances. The penalties for DUI can be severe, even for a first-time offense. Repeat offenses are likely to result in harsher consequences, including felony charges in some cases.

Our attorneys help clients challenge DUI allegations by questioning the legality of traffic stops, the accuracy of field sobriety tests and post-arrest chemical tests, and the procedures followed by police officers. We can negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing to protect our clients' driving privileges and reduce their long-term consequences.

Theft Charges

Crimes involving allegations of theft may range from misdemeanor offenses involving property valued under $500 to serious felony charges involving higher-value property or aggravating factors. Accusations of retail theft and possession of stolen goods may also lead to property crime charges, and convictions can result in serious penalties.

Our lawyers will examine surveillance footage, review witness testimony, and address violations of clients' rights by law enforcement. We will work to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution's case and achieve dismissals, acquittals, or reduced penalties that will protect clients from long-term consequences.

Weapons Charges

Illinois has strict laws regarding the possession and use of firearms and other weapons. Violations of these laws may result in felony charges. The unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon can result in serious criminal charges. Unlawful use of a weapon is another common charge, and it may be related to carrying a firearm in a prohibited location or brandishing a firearm in an unsafe manner.

Our attorneys can help defend against weapons charges by analyzing whether searches performed by police officers were lawful, whether a person's constitutional rights were violated, and whether the prosecution's evidence is reliable. Our knowledge of Illinois firearm laws ensures that we can build strong defenses for our clients while protecting their rights.

Sex Crime Allegations

Accusations of sex crimes can have devastating personal and legal consequences, including prison time, heavy fines, and the requirement to register as a sex offender for many years or even for life. Our lawyers can help defend against charges such as:

• Sexual assault
• Child pornography and other crimes against children
• Prostitution or solicitation
• Indecent exposure
• Revenge pornography

We handle these cases with discretion, working to minimize the impact on our clients' lives. Our attorneys will review digital evidence, forensic reports, and witness statements, working to uncover inconsistencies. Our goal is to prevent criminal convictions and minimize the impact of sex crime accusations.

Traffic Crimes

Violations of traffic laws can be more serious than they first appear. Offenses such as reckless driving, driving with a suspended or revoked license, or leaving the scene of an accident can result not only in fines but also the possibility of jail time and other consequences. Our lawyers can provide a strong defense against traffic crimes, working to protect our clients' driving privileges while minimizing their potential penalties.

Representation in McHenry County Courts

Following a criminal arrest in Crystal Lake, the proceedings in a person's case will typically be held 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

Drug Crime Charges

Illinois courts will often impose severe penalties for those who are convicted of drug crimes. Our attorneys can help address charges of drug possession and take steps to prevent convictions for more serious offenses such as drug manufacturing or drug distribution. We have experience defending clients in cases involving substances such as cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, LSD, methamphetamine, prescription opioids, and MDMA.

We can defend against drug charges by:

• Challenging unlawful searches and seizures
• Reviewing the accuracy of lab tests used to identify substances
• Identifying flaws in the chain of custody of evidence
• Negotiating for probation, drug treatment, or diversion programs to help clients avoid jail sentences

Violent Crime Charges

Accusations of violent crimes can be very serious, and convictions can lead to lengthy prison terms. Our lawyers can provide a strong defense for clients who have been charged with offenses such as:

• Murder/Manslaughter: When someone has been accused of causing another person's death, either accidentally or intentionally, they may face decades of imprisonment if they are convicted. Defense strategies in homicide cases may include self-defense, mistaken identity, or challenging forensic evidence.
• Assault and Battery: Charges of assault may involve accusations that a person acted in a way that caused another person to fear that they would suffer harm. Charges of battery will involve accusations that a person made insulting or provocative physical contact with someone else or inflicted an injury. Our attorneys can challenge these accusations or show that a person was acting in self-defense or defense of others.
• Domestic Violence: A person who has been accused of committing abuse against a member of their family or household may face criminal penalties, and they may also need to respond to a request for an order of protection. Our lawyers will work to resolve these cases while preventing long-term consequences that could affect a person and their family.

Contact Our Crystal Lake Criminal Defense Lawyers

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our lawyers have decades of legal experience representing clients in criminal cases. We are committed to fighting for our clients' rights, and we are ready to advocate on your behalf to help you resolve your case successfully. Contact our Crystal Lake, IL criminal law attorneys at 630-786-6062 to arrange a free consultation and begin building your defense.