Cook County, Illinois, criminal defense and general civil litigation attorney
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Chicago Gun Possession And Violation Charge Defense

My office remains open, and in response to COVID-19 I have expanded my options for remote consultations and virtual meetings. Please contact the office to discuss what meeting option best fits your situation.

Chicago and the state of Illinois have some of the strictest gun control laws on the books. Due to high homicide rates, the state has very specific and firm gun control laws. For example, in Chicago it is illegal to carry or possess a firearm in any bar or restaurant where alcohol is served.

Proven Defense For Gun Charges

With so many restrictions and changing laws, many people find themselves facing unlawful gun use and illegal firearm possession charges. I have helped numerous clients charged with gun possession and related charges including:

  • UUW (Unlawful Use of a Weapon)
    • Reckless discharge
    • Possession without a permit
    • Unlawful use by a felon
  • Class X felony — habitual use

Illegal Firearm Use By A Felon

If you have a felony record then no actual “use” is needed for you to be convicted of this offense; all that the prosecution must prove is that you possessed the firearm. It doesn’t matter if you were going to use the gun or were just taking it somewhere or to someone else. The courts in Chicago offer little leniency when it comes to gun charges.

Getting A Reduced Charge Or Probation

While in most cases it’s not possible to get probation for unlawful use charges, there are some exceptions.

  1. If you have a valid firearm owners identification card (FOID) you may get a reduced charge or probation.
  2. If you under the age of 18 you may also be able to negotiate a reduced charge or probation.
  3. Extenuating circumstances: every case is different. Once I hear your story I will be able to tell you how I can help.

Protecting Your Future

The most important thing is to protect your future. If you are charged with UUW in Chicago or the surrounding area then work with an attorney who will focus on your criminal defense case and who has the know-how and experience to help you.

Get Help Today

Call me at my office, the Law Office of Matthew Prengaman, at 773-598-4696. I’ve helped hundreds of clients in Cook County resolve their gun possession and violation issue. Your call or initial consultation is free.

Or fill out my online form and tell me what happened. I will get right back to you and tell you how I can help. My office hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Evening and weekend hours are available by appointment only. I visit clients in jail when necessary.