Assault And Violent Crime Defense Lawyer In Lake County And Waukegan

In Illinois, violent crimes are among the most serious criminal offenses and carry harsh penalties. If you have been arrested or are under investigation, you need an assault and violent crime defense lawyer who knows how to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

At Soffietti, Johnson, Teegen, Argueta, Bawcum & Barone, we have been defending clients across Lake County, including Waukegan, since 1956. We understand how much is at stake, and we know how to fight for your freedom.

What Is Considered A Violent Crime In Illinois?

In Illinois, violent crimes cover a range of offenses where physical harm or the threat of harm is involved. Types of offenses that fall under this broad category include:

• Assault and aggravated assault: These involve causing apprehension of harm or actual harm, with aggravated forms often involving weapons or severe injury.
• Battery: Unlawful physical contact or causing bodily harm.
• Homicide: This includes murder (unlawful killing with malice aforethought) and manslaughter (unlawful killing without malice).
• Domestic violence: Violent acts committed against family or household members.

Illinois law carefully distinguishes between different degrees and types of violent crimes. For instance, the distinction between first-degree murder and manslaughter significantly impacts the potential sentences. Our Lake County assault and violent crime defense lawyers can explain these critical differences.

Building Your Defense In Lake County And Waukegan

Common legal defenses that may apply to your situation include:

• Self-defense or defense of others
• Mistaken identity
• Lack of intent to commit the alleged crime
• Alibi or proving you were elsewhere

At Soffietti, Johnson, Teegen, Argueta, Bawcum & Barone, we believe that defense attorneys should only negotiate from a position of strength. We are not lawyers who think “plea bargain first, trial second.” Instead, we prepare every case for trial and will not even begin to consider a plea agreement until we have exhausted all other options. Law enforcement does not always get it right, and a thorough investigation by our team often uncovers crucial evidence or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s narrative. Witness testimony, when properly presented, can also be pivotal in supporting your defense.

Long-Term Consequences And Our Steadfast Support

A conviction for a violent crime extends far beyond potential jail time or fines. It can create lasting barriers to employment opportunities, make it difficult to find housing and even impact your fundamental civil rights.

Our experienced defense lawyers are committed to minimizing these risks. We strive not only to fight the immediate charges but also to protect your future. We know each client has questions and deep concerns. Our lawyers treat you as a person, not just a case file, taking the time to answer all your questions and help ensure your case is in capable hands.

Call Today

Let Soffietti, Johnson, Teegen, Argueta, Bawcum & Barone‘s heritage of helping work for you. If you are in Waukegan, Lake County or surrounding areas, call us toll-free via 888-351-2429 or contact us online.