Lisle Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorneys for Misdemeanor or Felony Criminal Charges in Lisle, IL

If you have been arrested for an alleged crime, your future may be at risk. Whether the accusations involve misdemeanor or felony charges, a conviction could lead to multiple types of serious penalties. In addition to facing the possibility of large fines and potential jail time, you may find that your employment opportunities, professional licenses, family relationships, housing, and other areas of your life may be affected. You will need to determine what steps you can take to defend against criminal charges and minimize the effect they will have on your life, and you can do so with the help of a skilled lawyer.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our attorneys are committed to standing beside clients during every phase of a criminal case. When you work with us, we will take the time to understand the accusations you are facing and the evidence that may play a role in your case. We will explain your rights and the options available to you, and we will help you build a defense strategy that will allow you to put this matter behind you and move forward with your life.

What to Do When You Are Arrested in Illinois

The steps you take following an arrest are critical. What you say and do during that time can significantly affect your case. The most important thing you can do after being arrested is to remain calm and avoid self-incrimination. Under the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, you are not required to answer questions from law enforcement officers beyond providing them with basic identifying information like your name, address, and driver's license. Anything you say when interacting with police officers could potentially be used against you, so you can avoid this by asserting your right to remain silent.

You also have the right to be represented by an attorney. It is important to invoke this right immediately. Once you state that you want a lawyer, officers are required to stop questioning you. By stating that you will not answer any questions until you have spoken with an attorney, you can make sure you do not say or do anything that could be incriminating.

Depending on the charges you are facing, a bond hearing may be held where a judge will determine whether you can be released before your trial and under what conditions. Our lawyers can provide you with representation during your bond hearing. We will argue for a lower bond or take steps to have you released on your own recognizance. We can also help ensure that the conditions that will apply on your release will not be too restrictive, allowing you to go about your daily life as you prepare to defend against criminal charges.

How Our Lawyers Can Help With Your Defense

Reviewing the Evidence

Every criminal case begins with evidence, which may be gathered by police officers during searches or investigations. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough review of everything the prosecution intends to use against you. This may include police reports, witness statements, security camera footage, chemical test results, and more. We will look for inconsistencies, gaps, and errors that can form the basis of an effective defense.

In cases involving scientific or technical evidence, such as DNA analysis from blood found at the scene of an alleged crime, our lawyers can determine whether the proper procedures were followed when gathering evidence and performing tests. Evidence that was improperly collected or analyzed may be challenged. We can also gather exonerating evidence and take steps to prove your innocence.

Protecting Your Constitutional Rights

Law enforcement officials are required to follow strict rules when investigating and prosecuting crimes. When those rules have been violated, our team will take action. If police conducted a search without a valid warrant, we will work to have any evidence they obtained suppressed. If you were questioned by police without being informed of your Miranda rights, the statements you made may be inadmissible. We will file motions to challenge constitutional violations and protect your rights.

Building a Defense Strategy

After reviewing the evidence and other facts involved in your case, we will develop a strategy for defense, which may involve:

• Challenging the Evidence: We may argue that the prosecution cannot prove every element of an offense beyond a reasonable doubt
• Presenting an Affirmative Defense: We may be able to demonstrate that you acted in self-defense or that there are other reasons why you should not be charged with the offense in question.
• Negotiating With Prosecutors: If your case cannot be dismissed, we can advise you on whether it may be beneficial to negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing options such as probation or diversion programs.
• Taking a Case to Trial: When the facts and law support it, our lawyers are fully prepared to advocate on your behalf before a judge or jury.

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

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

Our legal team can help defend against multiple types of charges, including:

• DUI: When you have been accused of drinking and driving or driving under the influence of drugs, you may face penalties that could include license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. Our attorneys can review all aspects of your case, from the reason for a traffic stop to field sobriety tests or chemical testing, helping you avoid a DUI conviction whenever possible.
• Drug Charges: Whether you are facing a misdemeanor drug possession charge or a felony charge involving manufacturing or distributing controlled substances, our team will review how evidence was gathered, whether officers conducted illegal searches, and other factors as we develop a defense strategy.
• Sex Crimes: When an offense involves allegations of sexual conduct that was committed without a person's consent, a conviction may require you to register as a sex offender. Our lawyers can defend against charges of sexual assault, online solicitation of a minor, and other offenses classified as sex crimes.
• Violent Crimes: Charges involving allegations of assault, battery, domestic violence, or homicide can lead to severe penalties. Our attorneys will examine the facts of your case closely and explore defenses such as self-defense or defense of others.
• Traffic Crimes: Traffic violations that can lead to criminal charges in Illinois include reckless driving, driving on a suspended or revoked license, leaving the scene of an accident, and street racing. Our team can help you understand what charges you are facing, and we will work to resolve these cases successfully.
• Probation Violations: If you are on probation, you could be accused of a violation such as failing a drug test, missing a required appointment, or a new criminal offense. These violations could result in the revocation of probation and other penalties. Our lawyers can provide representation during probation violation hearings, helping you avoid serious penalties while working to ensure that you can complete probation successfully.
• Theft and Property Crimes: Charges of retail theft, burglary, robbery, or other property crimes may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the value of the property and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Our law firm can defend against all levels of theft and property crime charges, working to challenge the prosecution's evidence and protect your future.

Contact Our Lisle, Illinois Criminal Defense Attorneys

Criminal charges can be serious, but you do not have to face them alone. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our attorneys are ready to stand beside you, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact our Lisle misdemeanor and felony defense lawyers at 630-665-8780 to schedule your free consultation.