Chicago Weapons Charge Defense Attorneys
Chicago Has Strict Gun Laws. We Know How to Fight Them.
Illinois weapons charges carry mandatory prison time. But these cases are beatable. We challenge illegal searches, possession claims, and constitutional violations.
Understanding Weapons Charge Defense
Illinois and Cook County have some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. Unlawful Use of Weapon (UUW) and Aggravated UUW charges carry serious consequences, including mandatory prison sentences. But weapons cases often involve constitutional issues—illegal stops, improper searches, and possession disputes. We fight every charge aggressively.
Weapons Charge Defense Charges We Handle
Unlawful Use of Weapon (UUW)
variesCarrying or possessing a firearm in violation of Illinois law
Aggravated UUW
felonyUUW with aggravating factors like prior convictions or loaded weapon
Felon in Possession
felonyFirearm possession by someone with a felony conviction
FOID Card Violations
variesPossession without valid Firearm Owner ID card
Armed Violence
felonyCommitting a felony while armed with a weapon
Armed Habitual Criminal
felonyWeapons possession with multiple prior violent/drug felonies
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Illinois Weapons Charge Defense Penalties
These are the potential consequences you face. We fight to reduce or eliminate them.
UUW (Class A Misdemeanor)
Aggravated UUW (Class 4 Felony)
Armed Habitual Criminal (Class X Felony)
Common Defense Strategies
Every case has potential defenses. Here's how we challenge weapons charge defense charges.
Illegal Search
The 4th Amendment prohibits unreasonable searches. If the gun was found illegally, it may be suppressed.
Lack of Possession
Merely being near a gun isn't possession. We challenge constructive possession claims.
Valid FOID/CCL
If you had a valid license, many charges don't apply. We verify license status.
Second Amendment Challenges
Recent Supreme Court decisions have expanded gun rights. We challenge unconstitutional restrictions.
Self-Defense Possession
In some circumstances, possessing a weapon for self-defense may be justified.
Knowledge Defense
You must know you possessed a weapon. Lack of knowledge is a defense.
These are just starting points. Your specific case may have unique defense opportunities.
Discuss Your Defense OptionsUnderstanding Weapons Charge Defense in Illinois
Watch Attorney Castellano explain weapons charge 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
Illinois Law: Key Statutes
Unlawful Use of Weapons - defines prohibited possession and carry.
Aggravated UUW - enhanced penalties for certain factors.
FOID Card Act - requirements for firearm possession in Illinois.
This is general information only. Consult with an attorney about how these laws apply to your specific case.
Weapons Charge Defense Case Results
Real results for clients facing similar charges. Every case is different, but these outcomes show what's possible.
Aggravated UUW
Gun suppressed due to unconstitutional traffic stop
Felon in Possession
Negotiated to misdemeanor, probation only
Armed Habitual Criminal
Constructive possession not proven
Frequently Asked Questions: Weapons Charge Defense
Is Illinois a constitutional carry state?
Can police search my car for weapons?
What is constructive possession?
Can a felon ever possess a gun in Illinois?
What are the penalties for carrying without a FOID card?
Related Practice Areas
Facing Weapons Charge Defense Charges?
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