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Chicago Violent Crime Defense Attorneys

Violent Crime Charges Demand Aggressive Defense

The stakes couldn't be higher. Prison, permanent record, destroyed reputation. We've defended clients facing the most serious charges—and we know how to fight back.

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Understanding Violent Crime Defense

Violent crime charges carry some of the harshest penalties in the Illinois criminal justice system. From simple assault to first-degree murder, these cases require experienced trial attorneys who understand how to challenge witness testimony, forensic evidence, and the prosecution's theory of the case. Your freedom depends on having the right defense.

Violent Crime Defense Charges We Handle

Simple Assault

misdemeanor

Threatening physical harm

Aggravated Assault

felony

Assault with weapons or against protected persons

Battery

misdemeanor

Causing physical harm or offensive contact

Aggravated Battery

felony

Battery causing great bodily harm or using weapons

Attempted Murder

felony

Intent to kill with substantial step taken

First-Degree Murder

felony

Intentional killing with premeditation

Manslaughter

felony

Killing without premeditation

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Illinois Violent Crime Defense Penalties

These are the potential consequences you face. We fight to reduce or eliminate them.

Simple Battery (Class A Misdemeanor)

Jail/Prison:Up to 1 year
Fines:Up to $2,500
Possible anger management
Protective orders
Criminal record

Aggravated Battery (Class 3 Felony)

Jail/Prison:2-5 years
Fines:Up to $25,000
Extended term eligible
Mandatory supervised release
Firearm restrictions

First-Degree Murder

Jail/Prison:20-60 years to life
Fines:Up to $25,000
No probation
Truth-in-sentencing (100%)
Death penalty eligible in rare cases

Common Defense Strategies

Every case has potential defenses. Here's how we challenge violent crime defense charges.

Self-Defense

Illinois law allows you to use reasonable force to defend yourself or others from imminent harm.

Defense of Others

You may use force to protect another person from unlawful attack.

Defense of Property

Limited force may be used to protect your property from theft or damage.

Lack of Intent

Many violent crimes require specific intent. Accidents and negligence may not meet this standard.

Mistaken Identity

Eyewitness identification is notoriously unreliable. We challenge identification procedures and evidence.

False Accusations

False allegations are common, especially in domestic situations. We investigate the accuser's credibility and motives.

These are just starting points. Your specific case may have unique defense opportunities.

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Video Guide

Understanding Violent Crime Defense in Illinois

Watch Attorney Castellano explain violent crime defense charges, potential penalties, and how we build winning defense strategies.

  • What prosecutors must prove
  • Common weaknesses in these cases
  • What to expect in your case
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HeyGen AI Video3:45

Illinois Law: Key Statutes

720 ILCS 5/12-1

Assault - threatening imminent battery.

720 ILCS 5/12-3

Battery - causing bodily harm or offensive contact.

720 ILCS 5/9-1

First Degree Murder elements and penalties.

This is general information only. Consult with an attorney about how these laws apply to your specific case.

Violent Crime Defense Case Results

Real results for clients facing similar charges. Every case is different, but these outcomes show what's possible.

NOT GUILTY

Aggravated Battery

Self-defense successfully argued at trial

REDUCED

Attempted Murder

Reduced to aggravated battery, 3 years probation

DISMISSED

First-Degree Murder

Key witness recanted, evidence insufficient

View All Case Results

Frequently Asked Questions: Violent Crime Defense

What's the difference between assault and battery?
Assault is the threat of physical harm that puts someone in reasonable fear of imminent battery. Battery is the actual physical contact—causing bodily harm or making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature. You can commit assault without touching anyone.
What is self-defense under Illinois law?
Illinois allows you to use force to defend yourself when you reasonably believe such force is necessary to prevent imminent unlawful force against you. The force used must be proportional to the threat. Deadly force is only justified when you reasonably believe it's necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm.
Can I be charged with murder if I didn't kill anyone?
Yes. Under Illinois' felony murder rule, if someone dies during the commission of a forcible felony (like robbery or burglary), all participants can be charged with first-degree murder—even if they didn't pull the trigger or intend for anyone to die.
What is aggravated battery?
Battery becomes "aggravated" when it involves: great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement; use of a deadly weapon; battery against certain protected persons (police, teachers, seniors); or battery in certain locations (schools, public transit).
What are the penalties for attempted murder?
Attempted first-degree murder is a Class X felony carrying 6-30 years in prison. With personal discharge of a firearm causing injury, the sentence can be 20-80 years. Illinois has mandatory minimums and truth-in-sentencing for violent crimes.

Related Practice Areas

Domestic ViolenceWeapons ChargesView All Practice Areas →

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