Plainfield Criminal Defense Lawyers

Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyers Advocating for Clients in Plainfield, Illinois

Being charged with a crime is one of the most serious legal challenges a person can face. Whether the accusation involves a misdemeanor or a felony, the outcome of a criminal case can have long-lasting consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. From the moment an arrest is made or an investigation begins, it is essential to work with a criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for your future.

The tenacious lawyers at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. have defended thousands of clients throughout our firm's multi-decade history. We provide aggressive representation for clients in Plainfield and throughout Will County. Our goal is to minimize the impact of criminal charges and help our clients move forward with their lives.

The Consequences of a Criminal Conviction

A criminal conviction in Illinois can carry a wide range of penalties, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. These may include:

• Prison or Jail Sentences: Felony convictions can result in years of incarceration, while misdemeanor offenses may still involve months of jail time.
• Large Fines: Convictions may include court-imposed fines of thousands of dollars, along with additional fees and surcharges.
• Restitution: Courts often require defendants to pay restitution to victims, especially in cases involving theft, fraud, or property damage.
• Probation: Even when incarceration is avoided, probation can include strict conditions such as curfews, mandatory reporting, drug testing, and restrictions on travel.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A criminal conviction will appear on background checks, limiting your ability to secure employment, receive approval to rent housing, pursue educational opportunities, or obtain a professional license.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Navigating the criminal justice system without a qualified attorney is risky. Prosecutors are focused on securing convictions, and even if a defendant is trying their best to cooperate with law enforcement, they can easily make statements or take other actions that could harm their case. Our criminal defense attorneys provide numerous advantages, including:

• Knowledge of the law and local court procedures in Will County
• Strategic case evaluation and investigation
• Experience negotiating with prosecutors
• The ability to challenge evidence and raise legal defenses
• Protection of your constitutional rights
• Representation in court hearings and at trial

We approach each case with careful attention to detail and a clear focus on achieving the most favorable outcome possible. We can work to achieve a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or a not guilty verdict at trial.

Types of Criminal Charges We Handle in Plainfield

Our firm provides skilled defense across a wide range of criminal matters. We understand the complexities of Illinois criminal law, and we know how to craft strong defenses for a variety of cases, including:

• Violent Crimes: We can help address charges of assault and battery, robbery, or homicide. We can also help clients respond to accusations of domestic violence and defend against orders of protection. We may be able to challenge the prosecution's evidence, demonstrate that actions were taken in self-defense, or present other arguments and evidence that will allow for reduced charges.
• Sex Crimes: We understand the serious nature of accusations of offenses like sexual assault or sexual abuse. We can also help defend against allegations of crimes against children, such as child pornography or solicitation of a minor. Sex crime convictions may result in mandatory sex offender registration, and our attorneys will handle these sensitive cases with discretion.
• Drug Crimes: Offenses involving controlled substances may include drug possession, drug manufacturing, or drug distribution. We can challenge unlawful searches, examine the results of lab tests, and seek alternatives to conviction when appropriate, such as substance abuse treatment programs.
• Traffic Offenses: Criminal charges may apply for certain traffic violations, including aggravated speeding, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. We can help defend against criminal penalties, working to prevent a license suspension or disqualification whenever possible.
• Theft and Property Crimes: We can provide a strong defense against charges related to the theft or destruction of property. We can represent clients who have been charged with retail theft, burglary, grand theft auto, arson, or criminal damage to property. We will analyze surveillance footage, question witness accounts, and raise defenses such as lack of intent to help prevent convictions.
• Weapons Charges: We work to protect our clients' rights and defend against charges related to firearms or other weapons. We can address offenses such as unlawful use of a weapon (UUW), possession of a firearm by a felon, or possession of illegal weapons such as machine guns or explosives. We will investigate whether searches conducted by police were lawful and whether a firearm or other weapon was legally possessed.
• Juvenile Offenses: We work with families to help minors defend against juvenile delinquency charges, including assault, vandalism, underage drinking, theft, shoplifting, drug possession, or sex offenses involving minors. Our attorneys work to protect young people from outcomes that could affect their future opportunities.

Contact Our Plainfield, Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers

When dealing with criminal charges in Plainfield, Illinois, the attorneys at Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. are ready to help you. With decades of experience and a proven track record in criminal matters, we will advocate for a positive resolution to your case. Contact our office by calling 630-786-6062 and setting up a free consultation.