Naperville Gun Crimes Defense Lawyer

After getting arrested in Illinois, you may feel like there is no one in the world who is on your side, especially if you’ve been charged with a gun-related crime, but this is not true. The Naperville gun crimes defense lawyers at Wolfe & Stec LTD are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of Illinois residents throughout the criminal justice process. We can evaluate the unique details of your case to create a personalized defense strategy designed to pursue the best possible outcome on your behalf.

If you are facing gun crimes charges in the Prairie State, turn to our experienced team for skilled advocacy you can trust.

Were you arrested and charged with a firearm offense in Illinois? Contact a seasoned gun crimes defense lawyer at Wolfe & Stec LTD at 630-305-0222 to learn how we can help defend your rights today.

Why Choose Us?

Trusted Gun Crimes Defense Attorneys in Naperville

The criminal justice system can be extremely difficult to navigate. While you have rights, they can be easily sidestepped if you don’t have an experienced criminal defense attorney representing you. Our gun crimes defense attorneys in Naperville have access to extensive criminal defense resources that can safeguard your rights throughout the process.

From the moment you contact us, we act in your best interests. We can shut down further interrogation and challenge any inappropriate government actions. After a thorough investigation and examination of the evidence, we can help you determine the best path forward.

At Wolfe & Stec LTD, our Naperville gun crimes defense lawyers explain your situation fully and describe every possible choice and the likely outcomes. You deserve to make informed choices when navigating the legal process, and we have decades of experience helping clients fully understand their rights.

Gun Laws in Illinois

The gun laws in Illinois are quite strict, with one notable exception. While you are required to have a permit to purchase firearms, you are not required to register them. This surprising loophole may not mean much, however, in the greater context of the state’s additional laws that apply to gun ownership.

If you own a gun or want to own a firearm in Illinois, it’s essential to make sure you are aware of the following laws.

Conceal Carry and Open Carry

If you want to carry a handgun concealed, you must have a concealed carry license. The State Police issue these licenses. They have limited discretion to deny a license, but in most cases, the law requires them to issue one when you apply for it. If you are carrying a concealed firearm without this license, you can be arrested.

Furthermore, only licenses issued by Illinois are respected in the state. If you have a concealed carry license from another state, it does not transfer to Illinois. However, if your license is from a state that has similar licensing requirements, you can apply for an Illinois non-resident license.

There is not a way to open carry in the state as a private citizen. You can’t be licensed for open carry, and you aren’t allowed to do so without a license, either. Out-of-state gun owners who regularly open carry can be easily caught off guard by this law.

Vehicle Carry

Your concealed carry license also permits you to carry handguns in your vehicle. It does not allow you to carry long guns in your vehicle, though.

Keep in mind that there is a pre-emption to this regulation for non-Illinois residents who are legally able to carry a firearm in public in their home state. They can transport handguns and ammo under peaceable journey laws, as long as those firearms are concealed in the vehicle.

Private Sales

Private sales in Illinois are legal but heavily restricted. They must be done through a gun dealer who has a federal firearms license (FFL), and the seller must verify that the buyer is licensed to own a firearm in Illinois. If you sell a firearm without taking these steps, you can be arrested.

Ghost Guns

While guns aren’t registered in Illinois, that doesn’t mean it is legal to own a gun without a serial number. Illinois explicitly bans ghost guns.

What to Do After You Are Arrested for a Gun Crime in Naperville

How to Best Protect Your Rights

The first thing you should do after getting arrested is ask to speak to a criminal defense attorney. You might be tempted to defend yourself to the police or explain your side of the story. This is a mistake, as anything you say to the police can be used against you in court. Furthermore, by talking to the police, you surrender your right to remain silent. Generally, the only questions you should answer are identifying information, like your name and where you live. Beyond this, wait until your Naperville gun crimes defense attorney from Wolfe & Stec LTD is present before saying anything else.

Once we are present, tell us everything about your case. It is important that you are honest and that you don’t leave anything out. It can be difficult to admit that you might have done something wrong, but the more we know about your circumstances, the better we can represent you. It’s important to note that we are legally bound to keep everything you tell us confidential unless you permit us to share it with other parties. This means that nothing you say to us can be used against you.

The next step will depend on the circumstances of your case and what results you are looking for. In some cases, we can get the charges dismissed due to a lack of evidence or mistakes made by the authorities. When that isn’t an option, we may consider negotiating for reduced charges with the prosecution. Our primary goal in these scenarios is to help you avoid jail time and keep any penalties to a minimum.

FAQ

You may understandably have many questions if you are facing gun crimes charges. One of the most vital steps you can take after an arrest in Illinois is to equip yourself with knowledge. Consider these questions our criminal defense attorneys at Wolfe & Stec LTD frequently receive from clients.

Can I be sent to jail if I am convicted of a gun possession charge in Illinois?

Yes. Even the least serious gun possession crime is charged as a class A misdemeanor. This means you can potentially be sentenced to up to one year in jail if you are convicted. If you otherwise have a clean record and this is a first-time offense, though, you may be able to avoid jail time.

What is the biggest penalty I can receive for a gun charge?

The most serious penalty for gun-related crimes is for a crime known as aggravated firearm discharge. This means that you discharged a firearm at an occupied building or vehicle or you knowingly shot at a government official. This crime is often penalized by a prison sentence of between six years and 30 years. Additionally, if your firearm discharge resulted in someone getting injured or killed, you could also be charged with assault or murder.

If I have a concealed carry license, can a business refuse to let me carry a concealed firearm?

Yes. Businesses still have the right to refuse to allow firearms on the property, regardless of whether a gun owner possesses a concealed carry license or not. The business must post a sign indicating that firearms are not permitted. If you violate that rule, you are trespassing under the law and can risk an arrest.

Can a gun crimes defense lawyer in Naperville help me after my gun license is revoked under red flag laws?

Yes. The gun crime lawyers at Wolfe & Stec LTD can help you prove that you are not a danger to yourself or others. We believe that everyone deserves due process and can fight to help you keep your right to bear firearms.

Do you still have questions about gun crimes in Illinois? If so, contact our law firm to speak to one of our Naperville gun crimes defense attorneys for more information.

Contact a Gun Crimes Defense Lawyer in Illinois Today

Gun crimes are taken seriously in Illinois. It is known as one of the least friendly states for gun rights in the country, and prosecutors are often tough on people charged with these crimes. You need an experienced legal team in your corner if you are accused of a gun crime in Illinois. This is where Wolfe & Stec LTD comes in.

Our knowledgeable team has a proven track record of successfully protecting the rights of clients dealing with gun crime charges throughout Illinois, and we’ve earned a long-standing reputation as skilled trial lawyers who offer exceptional customer service. Don’t wait to take steps to safeguard your future.

Facing firearms charges in Illinois? Time is of the essence to protect your rights and future. Contact Wolfe & Stec LTD at 630-305-0222 immediately.