Oak Brook Unlawful Use of Weapons Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Defending Clients Against Illegal Use of Firearms Charges in DuPage County

Illinois has very strict laws governing the unlawful use of weapons (UUW). Arrest on UUW charges in DuPage County can be quite serious, leading to a substantial fine and/or jail time if convicted. If you or someone you know is facing weapons charges, you need to retain legal counsel as soon as possible. The experienced attorneys at Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. have successfully represented UUW clients throughout the greater Chicago area.

Unlawful use of weapons involves the possession of a concealed or uncased, loaded firearm, or an unloaded firearm with ammunition that is immediately accessible, in any vehicle or public place, without a valid Firearm Owners Identification Card (FOID) or concealed carry permit. The weapon could be of any pistol, revolver, stun gun, taser, knife, blackjack, or other firearm readily capable of lethal use.

Aggravating Circumstances of UUW in DuPage County

When you commit a criminal offense with a deadly weapon under certain aggravated circumstances, you can receive heavier fines and stiffer sentencing. These circumstances include:

• Lack of a valid Firearm Owner's Identification Card (FOID).
• Previous adjudication as a delinquent minor for an act that if committed by an adult would be a felony.
• Committing a misdemeanor drug violation at the time of UUW.
• Being subject to an order of protection within the previous two years.
• Engaging in the commission or attempted commission of a misdemeanor threat of violence against the person or property of another.
• Being under 21 years of age and in possession of a handgun.
• Discharging or shooting a firearm into a house, vehicle, or any public building that is known to be occupied.

Sentences for UUW in Illinois

Unlawful use of a weapon is typically a Class A misdemeanor, although possession of certain weapons (such as machine guns) or using weapons in certain locations (such as near a school) is a felony offense. The aggravated unlawful use of a weapon is a Class 4 felony with a possible sentence of not less than one year and not more than three years. If a person has previously been convicted of a felony, aggravated UUW is a Class 2 felony that may lead to a sentence of incarceration for not less than three years and not more than seven years.

Call a Hinsdale Criminal Defense Lawyer

The experienced attorneys at Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. provide affordable, professional, and prompt legal representation in unlawful use of weapons cases. You do not want to risk a permanent criminal record and the loss of your freedom. We have had penalties and charges dismissed or reduced.

If you are facing UUW charges or any other criminal charge, contact our DuPage County criminal defense attorneys at 630-472-9700 for a free initial consultation. We serve clients in Downers Grove, Wheaton, Lombard, Hinsdale, Burr Ridge, Westmont, DuPage County and surrounding areas.