Chicago Violent Crimes Lawyer

Illinois Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are being investigated for a violent crime or have been charged with a criminal offense in Illinois, it is important to retain an experienced Chicago violent crimes attorney as soon as possible. Having an attorney with the knowledge and experience to understand what the charges mean and how the case will be built to support the charges is crucial. Hal M. Garfinkel has more than 25 years working in the criminal justice system, both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney, so he understands how best to represent his clients’ interests.

The Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney have the experience to handle all types of Chicago violent crimes cases. Here are some of the most common criminal offenses for which we defend clients:

• Murder
• Sex Offenses including Prostitution, Rape, and Sexual Assault
• Child Sex Offenses
• Domestic Violence including Orders of Protection and Restraining Orders
• Domestic Battery
• Weapons Charges

Violent crimes charges carry with them serious penalties, including extended prison terms, large fines, and possible lifetime registration as a sex offender. The type of penalty largely is determined by whether the crime is charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. The nature of the charge often is contingent on whether a weapon was used in the perpetration of the crime, the age of the victim, or the extent of the injuries.

Defending Against Violent Crime Charges

There are many different defenses that can be asserted for a person who has been charged with a violent crime, including:

• Identification of the wrong suspect;
• Improper investigation technique, including violation of a person’s due process rights;
• Flawed identification procedures, including improper line-ups;
• Self-defense; and
• Defense of others.

A person needs a skilled criminal defense attorney regardless of whether or not he committed the crime. These cases are exceptionally complex and the penalties are extreme. In the State of Illinois, violent crime cases are among the offenses that most often are prosecuted. A person faces the potential for significant prison time, even if he did not participate directly in the criminal activities. As an accessory to the crime, he may face the same penalties as those who committed the actual crime. This routinely is prosecuted under the Law of Accountability here in Illinois. Therefore, it is crucial to retain counsel, even if the person believes that he is safe from prosecution because he was not an active participant.

Contact a Knowledgeable Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

The Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney are committed to getting the best possible outcome for our Chicago criminal defense clients. We are available to discuss your case 24 hours per day, seven days a week. We will come to you if it is easier for you, including coming to the jail for the meeting. To discuss your case, call us at 312-629-0669 or complete our online contact form.