A DuPage County Weapons Charges Attorney Will Help Resolve Charges

Illinois has some of the toughest weapons laws in the country. Prosecutors are extremely aggressive; if you are convicted, you could face years in prison and excessive fines. If you are facing weapons charges, you need a DuPage County weapons charges attorney who knows how to provide an aggressive and effective legal defense.

A DuPage County Weapons Charges Attorney Handling All Types of Weapons Cases

Illinois has several laws concerning the possession and use of various weapons. In addition to firearms, these laws address the use and possession of anything considered a dangerous or deadly weapon, including knives, razors, clubs, and even a piece of broken glass. As a result, it is easier to find yourself facing a weapons charge than you might expect. We handle all types of weapons cases, including the following:

• Concealed carry issues
• Armed robbery
• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Unlawful possession, sale, or delivery of firearms

Whatever offense you have been charged with, you need to understand that the consequences, if convicted, are severe. Furthermore, your weapons charge may be in addition to other criminal charges you face. As a result, it is vital that you work with a knowledgeable and experienced DuPage County weapons charges attorney if you want to avoid the harshest possible outcome.

Unlawful Use of a Weapon

Illinois state law 720 ILCS 5/24-1 defines the offense of unlawful use of a weapon and prohibits the following:

• The sale, manufacture, possession, or purchase of a variety of weapons, including bludgeons, brass knuckles, throwing stars, and switchblade knives
• Possession of a dangerous or deadly weapon with intent to use it unlawfully against another person, such as a dagger, razor, stiletto, or broken bottle
• Carrying a firearm inside a place of religious worship with the intent to use it
• Carrying on your person or in your vehicle any tear gas gun projector or bomb or any object containing noxious liquid gas or substance
• Carrying a firearm on your person or in your vehicle outside of your own property or place of business without a concealed carry permit

Offenses concerning the unlawful use of a weapon are typically Class A misdemeanor charges, the most serious misdemeanor charge you can face. If convicted, you could be sentenced to up to one year in jail and ordered to pay fines of up to $2,500. The best way to protect yourself is to work with an experienced DuPage County weapons charges attorney.

Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Firearm

Aggravated unlawful use of a firearm is a felony offense. Under Illinois law 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6 it can be charged in the following situations:

• The firearm was not in a case, was loaded, and was immediately accessible, or if unloaded, the ammunition was immediately accessible; and
• You did not possess a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card or concealed carry permit

The first offense is a Class 4 felony, but subsequent offenses will be charged as a Class 2 felony. The consequences of a conviction could result in a minimum of up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. You need to contact a DuPage County weapons charges attorney immediately if you have been charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

Whatever Weapons Charges You Are Facing, DuPage County Weapons Charges Attorney Michael Stefanos Can Help

Do not leave your future in the hands of the prosecution. Get the help you need by contacting the Law Offices of Michael Stefanos. Call or email us today to schedule a free consultation.

We represent clients all over DuPage County, including Addison, Aurora, Bartlett, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Bolingbrook, Burr Ridge, Carol Stream, Clarendon Hills, Darien, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn, Glendale Heights, Itasca, Lemont, Lisle, Naperville, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Roselle, Schaumburg, St. Charles, Villa Park, Warrenville, Wayne Chicago, West Chicago, Westmont, Wheaton, Willowbrook, Winfield, Wood Dale, and Woodridge.