Chicago Weapon Possession Offenses Lawyer

Illegal Gun Possession Lawyer in Chicago

In Illinois, the laws related to weapons possession are not always easy to understand. Some guns and other weapons may be legal to possess, but certain requirements must be met when doing so. In some cases, certain people may be prohibited from possessing firearms, or criminal charges may apply if a person does not have the proper license. Other types of firearms and dangerous weapons are totally prohibited. The penalties for weapons charges can be serious, ranging from significant fines to long-term imprisonment. To protect your rights in cases involving accusations of illegal weapons possession, you can seek legal representation from a qualified criminal defense attorney.

At the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, our lawyer understands the laws regarding firearm possession and other related weapons offenses that apply to defendants in Chicago and Cook County. If you have been accused of illegal weapons possession, we will work to ensure that your rights are protected during the legal process. We will aggressively challenge any evidence against you and work hard to help you achieve the best possible outcome to your case. With our knowledge of the applicable statutes and local court procedures, we can help you navigate through this difficult situation with confidence.

Criminal Charges Related to the Possession of Firearms and Other Weapons

Illinois residents are allowed to own and possess certain types of firearms, although they will be required to apply for a Firearm Owner's ID (FOID) card. In general, a person must be 21 years old to qualify for an FOID card, although minors may be allowed to own firearms if they receive sponsorship from an eligible parent or guardian. Those who possess firearms without a valid FOID or who possess other types of illegal weapons may face criminal charges.

In general, carrying a firearm without an FOID or possessing weapons such as brass knuckles, throwing stars, or switchblade knives is a Class A misdemeanor, and someone who is convicted on these charges may be sentenced to up to one year in jail and fined up to $2,500. Possession of sawed-off shotguns or rifles or explosives such as bombs or grenades may result in Class 3 felony charges, which carry a sentence of between two and five years. Possession of machine guns is usually charged as a Class 2 felony that can be punished by a sentence of three to seven years.

It is also illegal for felons to possess firearms or ammunition. Anyone who has been convicted of a felony offense in Illinois, another state, or at the federal level will be prohibited from having a gun on their person or storing a firearm on their property. A violation of this law will generally result in Class 3 felony charges, and a person may be sentenced to two to 10 years in jail. In situations where a person was convicted of a forcible felony, stalking, or drug crimes classified as Class 2 felonies or greater, they may be charged with a Class 2 felony, and they may be sentenced to three to 14 years in jail. A second conviction of illegal possession of a firearm by a felon or an offense committed while a person was on probation or parole will also be charged as a Class 2 felony.

Possession of firearms or ammunition is also prohibited for drug addicts, people who have been patients in mental institutions within the previous five years, people with intellectual disabilities, or minors under the age of 21 who have been convicted of misdemeanors other than traffic offenses. In these cases, possession of a firearm other than a handgun is a Class A misdemeanor, while possession of a handgun is a Class 4 felony.

Contact Our Chicago Illegal Firearm Possession Lawyer

At the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, we understand how serious criminal charges involving gun and weapons possession can be. With our understanding of the state statutes that address firearms and other dangerous weapons, we can provide a strong defense for anyone who is charged with weapons violations. If you have been arrested for offenses related to firearm possession or other weapons crimes, do not hesitate to contact our office for a free consultation by calling 312-627-9482.