Chicago Violent Crimes Attorney
Experienced Defense Lawyer for Violent Crimes
No matter the situation, any accusations that a person has committed a criminal offense should be taken seriously. Even seemingly minor criminal charges can result in a variety of penalties that can affect a person for years to come, including a permanent criminal record, monetary fines, potential time behind bars, and periods of probation. However, charges related to violent crimes should be taken especially seriously. When a person is accused of purposely inflicting harm on someone else, they are likely to be treated more harshly by law enforcement officials, and they may face severe penalties if they are convicted. Because of these consequences, it is crucial for a person to have experienced legal representation.
At the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, our criminal defense attorney can provide invaluable assistance to those who have been accused of violent crime charges. We work to help our clients navigate the complex legal system, and by reviewing the facts of a case and uncovering relevant evidence, we can build a strong defense to prove a person's innocence or present mitigating circumstances. We provide aggressive advocacy for defendants, working to secure a dismissal of charges when possible or advocating for reduced charges that will limit the penalties a person may face. With our attorney on your side, you can rest assured knowing that every avenue is being explored to get you the best possible outcome in your case.
Representation in Multiple Types of Violent Crime Cases
When a person is accused of a violent offense, they may struggle to be treated fairly, especially when the criminal justice system is focused on protecting victims' rights and implementing harsh punishments as a deterrent against crime. Defendants who are charged with violent crimes may have a number of options for defense, including providing an alibi showing that they did not commit the offense or arguing that they acted in self-defense.
We work to help our clients defend against criminal charges such as:
- Assault and battery - In situations where a person is accused of injuring someone else or purposely acting in a way that put someone at risk of harm, they may be charged with assault, battery, or both. These offenses are typically charged as misdemeanors. However, felony charges for aggravated assault or aggravated battery may be pursued in certain situations, such as when a person is accused of inflicting great bodily harm, carrying a deadly weapon, or assaulting a police officer.
- Vehicular hijacking - Stealing a vehicle directly from a person through the use of force or threats is a serious offense. Carjacking or vehicular hijacking is usually charged as a Class 1 felony, although Class X felony charges may apply if a case involved aggravating circumstances such as the use of a dangerous weapon.
- First degree murder - Some of the most serious violent crime cases will involve accusations that a person intentionally killed someone. To be convicted of first degree murder, a person must have known that their actions were likely to lead to death or severe injuries, and they must have acted without justification. A first degree murder conviction will result in a sentence of multiple decades in prison, and in some cases, a person may face a life sentence.
- Attempted first degree murder - If a person allegedly took actions that were meant to cause someone's death, they may be charged with attempted murder. While this offense is less serious than murder, it is still a Class X felony, and a person may be sentenced to multiple years or decades in prison.
- Homicide crimes - In addition to first degree murder, other offenses that resulted in someone's death are typically charged as felonies. These include second degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, and drug-induced homicide.
Contact Our Chicago Violent Crimes Defense Attorney
The consequences of a violent crime conviction can be devastating, and it is essential for those accused to have experienced legal representation. At the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, our criminal defense attorney has extensive experience helping clients in Chicago and Cook County who have been charged with these offenses. We understand how difficult these situations can be, and we work diligently to build effective defense strategies that will help our clients secure positive outcomes in these cases. To learn more about how we can help you protect your rights in cases involving accusations of violent crime, call 312-627-9482 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.