Rolling Meadows, Illinois Criminal Defense Attorneys

Lawyers for Theft, Drug Charges, Assault, and More in Rolling Meadows

When you have been arrested for a criminal offense, your freedom, career, and reputation may be at risk. Whether you have been accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, dealing with the criminal justice system can be intimidating, and you may be unsure about how to proceed. It is important to take steps to defend against the charges, because a criminal conviction can follow you for years, and a criminal record may limit your future opportunities.

From the moment charges are filed, prosecutors will begin building a case against you, and they will work to secure a conviction. You need to make sure you have a legal advocate of your own who can determine the ideal defense strategy while protecting your rights. With an experienced attorney on your side, you can take steps to prevent a criminal conviction and minimize the consequences that could affect your future. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we can provide the strategic defense you need.

With decades of courtroom experience, a history of success in high-profile cases, and numerous awards, our lawyers can handle challenging criminal matters effectively. We have helped thousands of clients defend against all types of criminal charges, and we know the best strategies that can be used to resolve cases successfully. With our history of representing well-known clients such as athletes, politicians, and entertainers, and our ability to secure dismissals or acquittals or negotiate favorable plea agreements, we can protect your rights and help you achieve success in your case.

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

Defense Against Theft Charges

Under Illinois law, theft may include taking property without permission, deceiving someone to obtain property, or possessing stolen goods. The severity of theft charges will typically depend on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the offense. Our lawyers can help defend against charges of:

• Misdemeanor Theft: In general, when the value of property that was allegedly stolen is $500 or less, an offense will be classified as a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction may be punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fines of up to $2,500.
• Felony Theft: Theft of property valued at more than $500, or theft involving aggravating factors such as stealing from a school, church, or government agency, will typically result in felony charges. Felony offenses carry a minimum sentence of one year in prison, and in cases involving the alleged theft of more than $100,000, the maximum sentence can be as high as 30 years. Felony convictions may also result in fines of up to $25,000.
• Retail Theft: Shoplifting charges may apply if a person is accused of stealing merchandise from a retail store or taking actions meant to obtain items for less than their full price. While theft of items worth less than $300 will typically result in misdemeanor charges, theft of more than that amount may lead to felony charges.

Our attorneys will analyze every aspect of a theft case, from surveillance footage to witness testimony. We will take steps to challenge the evidence, demonstrate a person's innocence, and work to achieve a dismissal or reduced penalties.

Drug Crime Allegations

Drug-related charges are taken seriously in Cook County. The penalties can be harsh even for first-time offenders. In general, the penalties for drug crimes will depend on the specific substances involved in a case and the amount that a person allegedly possessed or intended to distribute. Our lawyers can defend against charges of:

• Drug Possession: Knowingly possessing illegal substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or LSD can lead to felony charges, even for small amounts. In cases involving large quantities, charges may be elevated to possession with intent to distribute, which carries more serious penalties.
• Distribution of Controlled Substances: Any activities related to the sale or distribution of drugs, including transporting drugs or giving drugs to others, may lead to felony drug charges. These offenses carry much harsher penalties than would typically apply to people charged with drug possession.
• Drug Manufacturing: Producing, cultivating, or creating controlled substances can result in severe felony charges. Manufacturing of controlled substances may include creating or synthesizing drugs as well as processing and packaging drugs for distribution.

In cases involving drug charges, our attorneys will evaluate whether searches and seizures were conducted lawfully, challenge the reliability of chemical testing by drug labs, and negotiate for reduced penalties or diversion programs when appropriate. We work to help our clients avoid convictions and receive treatment for substance abuse, ensuring that they will be able to avoid long-term penalties.

Defense Against Assault, Battery, and Domestic Violence

Allegations of violent crimes can be particularly serious. Claims that a person inflicted physical harm or threatened to injure someone can lead to orders of protection and criminal charges. Our lawyers can defend against charges of:

• Assault: Under Illinois law, assault involves placing someone in fear that they will suffer bodily harm. Even if no physical contact occurs, a person may still face criminal charges.
• Battery: When an accusation involves physical contact or bodily harm, charges of battery may apply. These charges are typically more serious than assault charges, especially in cases involving allegations of inflicting serious injuries or using a weapon, which may be classified as aggravated battery.
• Domestic Violence: Allegations of abuse against a family member, a current or former romantic partner, or a person who lives in someone's household can lead to both criminal penalties and civil consequences.

Our attorneys will carefully examine the evidence involved in a violent crime case, looking for inconsistencies in witness statements or other options for defense. We work to protect clients against both criminal penalties and the collateral consequences of a conviction or order of protection.

Sex Crime Charges

Accusations of sexual offenses can lead to severe legal consequences while also damaging a person's reputation, affecting their career, and harming their personal relationships. Our lawyers can provide a strong defense against a wide range of sex crime charges, including:

• Sexual Assault: A person who is accused of engaging in sexual intercourse or sexual conduct without consent or through the use of force or threats may face serious criminal charges. A conviction may result in years of imprisonment, as well as mandatory registration as a sex offender.
• Possession of Child Pornography: Crimes against children can lead to harsh penalties in Illinois. In cases involving child sexual abuse material (CSAM), our attorneys can review digital evidence, take steps to protect our clients' constitutional rights, and work to prevent convictions.
• Prostitution and Solicitation: Offenses involving the exchange of money or anything else of value in return for sexual activity can lead to serious penalties. Our lawyers can help determine the best defense strategies, which may include questioning the conduct of law enforcement officers during "sting" operations.

Representation in Cook County Courts

Following an arrest in Rolling Meadows, the proceedings in a person's case will typically be held at the local Cook County Courthouse, located at:

• 2121 Euclid Avenue, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

We serve clients from our office in Rolling Meadows, located at:

• 1813 Hicks Road, Suite B, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

Other Criminal Offenses

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we can provide a strong defense against criminal charges such as:

• Traffic Crimes: Serious offenses such as reckless driving, fleeing the scene of an accident, or driving with a suspended license can result in criminal penalties including fines, license suspension, and the possibility of jail time.
• Weapons Charges: Our attorneys can address crimes involving firearms or other weapons, helping to protect our clients' rights. We can assist with cases involving accusations of unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of firearms, or using a deadly weapon during a criminal offense.
• Juvenile Crimes: When minors are accused of offenses such as theft, drug possession, or assault, the consequences can affect their future opportunities. Our lawyers work to keep cases within the juvenile system and seek outcomes that will limit the long-term penalties that may affect children.

Contact Our Rolling Meadows, IL Criminal Defense Lawyers

When dealing with criminal charges, the decisions you make can affect your freedom and your future. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we have decades of experience handling complex criminal cases, and we will help you protect your rights as we defend against a conviction. Contact our Rolling Meadows criminal law attorneys at 847-465-8743 to arrange your free consultation today.