Chicago Weapons Crimes Lawyer

Cook County Gun Crimes Attorney

The state of Illinois closely regulates firearms and other dangerous weapons. Those who are accused of violating the state's weapons laws may face serious criminal charges. These offenses may be prosecuted as either felonies or misdemeanors, depending on the types of weapons involved and the circumstances of a case. Anyone who owns firearms or other items that may be classified as dangerous weapons will need to be aware of the activities that could lead to criminal prosecution, and those who have been arrested and charged with weapons offenses can work with a criminal defense attorney to determine how to handle these types of cases.

If you have been accused of any type of gun or weapons crime, the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro can provide you with strong, effective legal representation. Our experienced lawyer knows the laws that affect the ownership and use of guns and other weapons, and we understand the complexities of these cases. We can work to protect your rights as a gun owner while helping you take the proper steps to have your charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible. With our aggressive approach, we will do everything we can to help you resolve these matters successfully while avoiding a conviction.

Types of Weapons Offenses in Illinois

The laws in Illinois address multiple types of weapons, ranging from high-caliber rifles and automatic weapons to handguns that may be concealed, as well as knives, clubs, explosives, and stun guns. There are multiple types of offenses that may apply to those who are accused of violating weapons laws, including:

• Illegal weapons possession - Certain types of weapons are illegal to possess in Illinois, such as brass knuckles, sawed-off shotguns, and machine guns. Charges for possession of illegal weapons can range from Class A misdemeanors to Class 2 felonies. Firearm possession is also prohibited for convicted felons, and those who violate this law may be charged with Class 3 or Class 2 felonies. Certain other people, such as drug addicts or former mental patients, are also prohibited from possessing firearms, and a person who violates these restrictions may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor or Class 4 felony depending on the type of weapon in question.
• Possession of a stolen firearm - A person may be charged with a Class 2 felony if they possess a gun that they knew was stolen, including when they should have known that the weapon was stolen because its serial number had been altered or removed.
• Unlawful sale or delivery of firearms - Dealing in firearms without holding a valid license, selling or transferring guns to people who are prohibited from possessing them, or failing to follow the proper procedures when selling or delivering firearms may result in charges that can range from a Class 4 to a Class 1 felony.
• Unlawful use of weapons (UUW) - This offense covers a variety of actions, including carrying a weapon without a valid Firearm Owner's ID (FOID) card, carrying a concealed firearm without a concealed carry license (CCL), carrying a gun with the intent of using it against someone in a place of religious worship, or carrying a firearm in a place that sells alcoholic beverages. The specific charges for this offense will generally range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class 2 felony.
• Reckless discharge of a firearm - A person may be charged with this offense, a Class 4 felony, if they fire a gun in a manner that puts someone else at risk of suffering bodily harm. A charge may be elevated to aggravated discharge of a firearm if a person fired a gun toward a vehicle or building when people are inside, toward a police officer or first responder, or toward a teacher or school employee on the grounds of a school. This offense may be charged as either a Class 1 or Class X felony.

Contact Our Cook County Weapons Charges Lawyer

If you have been accused of any type of gun or weapons crime, Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro can provide you with the legal help you need. Our experienced attorney knows the importance of protecting people's rights to own and possess weapons. With our experience representing clients in cases involving firearm and weapons charges, we can determine the ideal defense strategies in your situation. Get in touch with us today by calling 312-627-9482 and arranging your complimentary consultation.