Glendale Heights, Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers

Respected Criminal Defense Attorneys Defending Clients in Glendale Heights, IL

If you are accused of a crime in Glendale Heights, you could face serious, life-altering consequences. Whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor offense, a conviction can result in steep fines, probation, a potential prison sentence, and a permanent criminal record that may impact your life in many ways. When facing criminal charges in DuPage County, it is critical to work with an attorney who understands the law, the courts, and how to protect your rights.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our experienced attorneys have defended clients in thousands of cases, helping them avoid convictions and working to minimize the ways they may be affected. We provide aggressive, strategic representation for clients in Glendale Heights and throughout the surrounding communities. Whether you are facing your first arrest or have prior convictions, we will work to build a strong defense to help you avoid harsh penalties.

Defense for Drug Crimes

Drug offenses often carry significant penalties, even for first-time offenders. Drug charges can range from simple possession to serious felony allegations involving the distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances.

Drug Possession

You may be charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance if you are found with illegal drugs. Possession of certain types of drugs without a valid prescription may also lead to criminal charges. The penalties for drug possession will usually depend on the type and quantity of the drug, and felony charges may apply even in cases involving a few grams of drugs like cocaine or heroin.

Our attorneys will examine the legality of searches performed by law enforcement. We may also be able to question whether a person knowingly possessed a drug and whether constitutional violations occurred during an investigation or arrest. We can help determine whether treatment or probation may be options to help a person avoid a conviction for drug possession.

Drug Distribution

Possession with intent to deliver or actual distribution of drugs to others is a more serious offense than simple possession. Drug distribution charges may be based on the amount of a drug that a person allegedly possessed, how drugs were packaged, the presence of items such as scales or baggies, or text messages indicating that a person intended to sell drugs to others.

Charges of drug distribution will often carry mandatory prison sentences upon conviction. Cases involving large amounts of controlled substances or accusations of selling drugs near schools or parks may lead to more serious charges and increased penalties.

Drug Manufacturing

Charges involving allegations of growing, producing, or chemically altering controlled substances are typically classified as drug manufacturing. While these charges may be based on accusations of operating a meth lab or compounding synthetic narcotics, they may also involve packaging drugs and preparing them for distribution.

Drug manufacturing charges are often classified as felonies, and in cases involving large amounts of substances, a conviction may lead to a multi-decade prison sentence. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we can challenge the evidence, question the reliability of lab results, and scrutinize search warrants to protect our clients from these severe penalties.

Weapons Charges

Illinois law prohibits certain types of weapons, and it also places requirements on people who own firearms. A person will typically be required to obtain a firearm owner's ID (FOID) card, and they must obtain a concealed carry license if they wish to carry concealed weapons. Violations of these laws may lead to weapons charges. We defend clients in Glendale Heights who are facing charges such as:

• Unlawful Use of Weapons (UUW): These charges may apply if a person is accused of carrying a firearm without a valid FOID card or concealed carry license. Possessing a weapon in a prohibited area, such as a school zone, or using a weapon in a way that put others at risk of harm may also lead to criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances, this offense may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon: A person with a felony conviction is prohibited from possessing a firearm under Illinois law. This offense is typically charged as a Class 3 felony, and a person could face a sentence ranging from two to 10 years in prison. In these situations, we can investigate whether the weapon was lawfully possessed, challenge how it was discovered, and seek reduced charges when possible.

Other Criminal Charges

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we provide comprehensive defense against a full range of criminal charges. Our attorneys have experience handling both misdemeanor and felony cases involving:

• Theft and Property Crimes: We represent clients accused of retail theft (shoplifting), burglary, auto theft, arson, or other related offenses. We will challenge the prosecution's evidence, identify potential defenses involving mistaken identity or lack of intent, and pursue diversionary programs to help avoid convictions when possible.
• Violent Crimes: Violent offenses carry serious consequences, including prison time and a lasting criminal record. We defend against charges such as assault, battery, domestic violence, robbery, and manslaughter/murder. Our team will investigate every detail of a case, examine physical and testimonial evidence, and explore defenses such as self-defense or defense of others.
• Sex Crimes: Being accused of a sexual offense can severely damage your reputation and future. We represent clients facing charges of sexual assault, sexual abuse, possession or distribution of child pornography, online solicitation of a minor, and other internet sex crimes and crimes against children. We work to challenge witness credibility, uncover inconsistencies, and prevent wrongful convictions.

Contact Our Glendale Heights Criminal Defense Attorneys

When addressing criminal charges in Glendale Heights, Illinois, do not wait to seek experienced legal representation. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we have the knowledge, resources, and courtroom experience needed to fight for your rights. Contact our office by calling 630-786-6062 and scheduling a free consultation.