Hoffman Estates, IL Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorneys for Drug Charges, Property Crimes, Traffic Crimes, Probation Violations, and More in Hoffman Estates, Illinois

When you are facing criminal charges, the impact on your life can be massive, and a conviction could put your future at risk. The stress of an arrest, the fear of possible penalties, and the complexity of navigating the criminal justice system can feel overwhelming. In these critical moments, effective legal representation is essential.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we provide legal help for clients in Hoffman Estates who have been accused of criminal offenses. Our legal team has successfully handled thousands of cases, helping clients secure acquittals or negotiate agreements that have minimized their potential penalties. With our substantial courtroom experience and our deep understanding of how to build strong, effective defenses, we can provide you with effective representation while working to prevent serious consequences that could affect your life for years to come.

Every case is different, and our attorneys understand the importance of crafting a defense strategy that is tailored to the facts of your case and your overall goals. Whether negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges or presenting a compelling case before a judge and jury, we are committed to protecting your rights, freedom, and future. From the start of an investigation through every phase of a criminal case, you can benefit from our commitment to client service.

Attorney Spotlight

Attorney Spotlight

Donald Ramsell

Attorney Profile

Donald Ramsell is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney who has represented clients in more than 500 bench trials and 100 jury trials. He is the author of leading publications on DUI defense in Illinois, and he has defended more than 10,000 DUI cases. He has handled numerous appeals in Illinois, and he also 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

Drug Crime Defense

Offenses involving controlled substances can carry severe penalties depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved in these cases. Whether you are facing drug crime charges involving the possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine, we can advise you on the best strategies that may be used in your case.

Possession of even a small amount of certain controlled substances can result in felony charges. The charges may increase if there are allegations that you intended to sell or deliver drugs to other people. Charges related to manufacturing drugs can also be very serious, and a conviction can lead to a lengthy prison sentence and significant fines. In many cases, the outcome of a drug case will hinge on whether law enforcement acted lawfully when conducting searches, seizures, or arrests.

Our attorneys will thoroughly review every aspect of a drug case to determine whether evidence can be challenged or suppressed. We may question the validity of a search warrant or the chain of custody for seized substances. When appropriate, we can help determine whether diversionary programs, drug treatment, probation, or reduced sentencing may be available.

Defense for Property Crime Charges

Property crimes generally involve accusations of unlawfully taking or damaging someone else's belongings. These offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances of a case and the value of property that was allegedly stolen or destroyed. Our lawyers represent clients in a broad spectrum of property-related criminal cases, including:

• Theft: Multiple types of offenses may fall under this category, and they typically involve taking property without consent. The specific penalties will typically be based on the value of the property.
• Retail Theft: Commonly known as shoplifting, this offense includes pocketing merchandise, concealing items, altering price tags, or using devices to avoid detection in stores.
• Burglary: Entering a building or vehicle without permission and with the intent to commit theft or another felony can lead to charges of burglary. The penalties may be more serious if an offense allegedly took place in a residence or if a person was armed with a weapon.
• Robbery: This offense involves taking property directly from another person by force or threat of force. Robbery is a felony offense, and charges may be elevated to armed robbery if a weapon was allegedly used.

Defending against property crime allegations often requires a careful evaluation of surveillance footage, witness statements, and the timeline of events. Our attorneys know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and build a defense that supports the client's version of events or raises doubt about intent or identity.

Serious Traffic Offenses

While many traffic offenses are treated as civil infractions, others carry criminal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and jail time. In Hoffman Estates, our lawyers can help address allegations of serious traffic crimes such as:

• Reckless Driving: Operating a vehicle with a willful disregard for safety, including excessive speeding, weaving through traffic, or other dangerous behavior, can lead to criminal charges, and a conviction may result in serious penalties.
• Driving Without a License: Whether due to never obtaining a license or driving with a suspended or revoked license, this charge can lead to an arrest and penalties that may include increased terms of license suspension, fines, and more.
• Texting While Driving: The use of handheld cell phones or other electronic devices while a person is operating a vehicle is prohibited under Illinois law. Violations may result in fines. In some cases, criminal charges may apply if the offense results in an injury.
• Aggravated Speeding: Driving 26 miles per hour or more above the posted limit is more serious than a simple speeding ticket. This is a misdemeanor offense that may lead to a criminal record and potential jail time.

In each case, we work to minimize or avoid penalties by questioning the circumstances of a traffic stop, the accuracy of radar or speed detection equipment, and whether the driver's rights were respected. We take steps to help our clients regain their driving privileges as quickly as possible.

Representation in Probation Violation Cases

Probation may sometimes be an alternative to incarceration, but it comes with strict terms and conditions. Failing to comply with those terms, such as by missing a meeting with a probation officer, failing a drug test, or being arrested for a new offense, may result in a probation violation that could carry serious consequences. In some cases, the term of probation may be extended, additional restrictions may be put in place, or a person could even be sentenced to jail time.

The attorneys at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. understand the importance of quickly addressing probation violations before they escalate. In many cases, we can negotiate with the court to continue probation, modify conditions, and prevent incarceration. We advocate for clients by presenting mitigating evidence, demonstrating that they have made good-faith efforts to comply with their requirements, and arguing that violations were minor or unintentional.

Representation in Cook County Courts

Following an arrest in Hoffman Estates, the proceedings in a person's case may be held at the Rolling Meadows Courthouse in Cook County, located at:

• 2121 Euclid Avenue, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

We serve clients from our office in Schaumburg, located at:

• 1900 E. Golf Road, Suite 950R, Schaumburg, IL 60173

Additional Criminal Charges

Our lawyers represent clients who have been accused of a wide range of other offenses, including:

• DUI: We can defend against allegations of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and we can provide representation during license suspension or revocation proceedings.
• Sex Crimes: We represent clients who are facing charges such as sexual assault, indecent exposure, prostitution-related offenses, and other allegations that carry serious consequences.
• Violent Crimes: We handle cases involving assault, battery, domestic violence, and more serious offenses such as attempted murder.
• Weapons Offenses: We can defend against charges of illegal possession of firearms, concealed carry violations, unlawful use of a weapon, and more.

Contact Our Hoffman Estates Criminal Defense Attorneys

During a criminal case, it is important to act quickly to protect your rights and your future. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, the attorneys at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. are prepared to stand with you during every stage of your case. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact our Hoffman Estates, IL criminal defense lawyers at 630-786-6062 and arrange a free consultation.