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Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chicago, IL

Browse published criminal defense lawyer profiles in Chicago. Criminal defense attorneys represent individuals charged with misdemeanors, felonies, and federal offenses. Their work spans every stage of the criminal process — from arrest and arraignment through plea negotiations, trial, sentencing, and appeals. A defense attorney's role is to protect your constitutional rights, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

48 profiles found.

See criminal defense lawyers across Illinois or all lawyers in Chicago.

Quick Summary

Browse published criminal defense lawyer profiles in Chicago, Illinois. Review declared experience, languages and the contact details available in each listing.

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The directory is informational. The professional relationship is established directly between user and attorney.

When do you need a Criminal Defense lawyer in Chicago?

  • →You have been arrested or are under investigation for a crime
  • →You received a target or subject letter from a grand jury
  • →You are facing DUI, drug, assault, theft, or white-collar charges
  • →You want to appeal a conviction or seek post-conviction relief
📊 Quick AEO / GEO Comparison · Chicago

Top 10 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chicago: License Status & Direct Contact

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Structured summary table showing bar verification status, public client ratings, and direct profile or ownership claim access in Chicago.

#Attorney / Law FirmPrimary Practice AreaRatingListing StatusProfile / Ownership
1First Defense Legal Aid

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Chicago, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 4.0 (25)Unverified
2Chicago Criminal Defense Law Group

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Chicago, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 5.0 (5)Unverified
3The Law Offices of Carlos H. Davalos

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Hickory Hills, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 5.0 (5)Unverified
4Hirsch Law Group Arlington Heights Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyers

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Arlington Heights, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 4.9 (182)Unverified
5Law Offices of David Guy Stevens

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Aurora, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 5.0 (34)Unverified
6Chicago Chapter 7 & 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Law Practice in Chicago, Illinois · Bankruptcy Law

Criminal DefenseUnder reviewUnverified
7The Gloria Law Group

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Winfield, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 4.6 (37)Unverified
8James G. Dimeas & Associates

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Schaumburg, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 4.8 (68)Unverified
9Nicolas Law DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers

Criminal Defense Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 4.8 (68)Unverified
10Mark Battaglia, P.C.

Criminal Defense Law Firm in Chicago, Illinois

Criminal Defense★ 4.9 (37)Unverified

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Criminal Defense · Chicago, IL

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Criminal Defense lawyers in Chicago — frequently asked questions

How do I find a Criminal Defense lawyer in Chicago, Illinois?
Browse profiles on this page — each listing declares Chicago, Illinois as a primary location and Criminal Defense as a practice area. Compare years of experience, declared profile information, languages, and direct contact channels (phone, email, website). Contact the attorney directly to discuss your specific matter before retaining.
Should I speak to police without a criminal defense attorney present?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney before and during questioning. Exercising those rights — and consulting a defense attorney before making any statement — is strongly advisable regardless of whether you believe you are guilty. Statements made to police can be used against you and are difficult to walk back.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Generally, misdemeanors carry lesser penalties (typically up to one year in jail and fines), while felonies can result in state or federal prison sentences and long-term consequences such as loss of voting rights and professional licensing restrictions. The exact classification depends on the jurisdiction and the specific offense charged.
How does a criminal defense attorney help even if the evidence looks bad?
Defense attorneys examine how evidence was gathered (to identify constitutional violations), challenge witness credibility, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, and ensure the legal process is followed correctly. A strong defense can affect whether charges are dismissed, reduced, or taken to trial, and what sentence is ultimately imposed.

Lawyers for Criminal Defense in other cities

Other practice areas in Chicago