Hinsdale, Illinois Criminal Defense Attorneys
"Jeff Muntz was steady, practical, and clear throughout my case. He took the time to explain options and consequences without overcomplicating things, which I appreciated."
Lawyers Defending Against Criminal Charges in Hinsdale
Being charged with a crime is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. A criminal charge for a minor misdemeanor, a serious felony, or anything in between can affect a person in many ways. Their freedom may be at risk, and they may face penalties that could lead to financial losses, loss of employment, and damage to their reputation. People who are facing criminal charges can benefit from working with a lawyer who understands both the laws that will apply in their cases and the local court system.
At Goostree Law Group, our attorneys provide dedicated representation for people in Hinsdale who are facing criminal charges of all kinds. We have the experience needed to represent clients in criminal courts, and with our thorough understanding of Illinois criminal statutes, we can provide guidance on the ideal defense strategies. We will take time to listen to each client's situation, examine the evidence in a case, and take steps to resolve a case successfully while protecting a person's rights.
Call 630-584-4800 and let us help your family.
Understanding Misdemeanor and Felony Charges
Criminal offenses can generally be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. When a person faces felony charges, they will be at risk of more severe penalties, including longer prison sentences and fines that may be as high as $25,000 or more. Misdemeanor charges may not be as serious as felonies, but they may still lead to jail time and thousands of dollars in fines.
Regardless of whether a person is convicted of a misdemeanor or a felony, they will have a criminal record that could limit their employment opportunities and affect other areas of their life. Our lawyers can help clients take steps to minimize the potential penalties that they may face. We will fight to prevent convictions whenever possible and help clients find solutions that will protect their futures.
Assault and Battery Charges
A person who is charged with assault or battery could face misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances involved in a case. A simple assault charge may involve accusations of words or conduct that caused another person to fear that they would suffer harm, while battery charges may involve actual physical contact or injuries. Aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon, the identity of the alleged victim, or the location where the incident occurred, can lead to more serious charges. Our attorneys will examine the specific facts of each case and help clients defend against convictions for assault and/or battery.
Domestic Violence Allegations
When arguments or other forms of conflict arise between family members, romantic partners, or people who live in the same household, a person may face accusations of domestic violence. These cases can lead to both criminal charges and civil protective orders. A conviction can lead to multiple types of consequences, including restrictions on firearm possession or unfavorable decisions in family law cases involving child custody or other related issues. Our lawyers will work to protect our clients' rights while addressing criminal charges and protective orders.
Drug Possession Offenses
People who are accused of drug-related charges may face harsh penalties that will be based on the types of substances involved in a case and the quantities of these drugs. While drug possession may be charged as a misdemeanor in some cases, felony charges will often apply in cases involving "hard drugs" like methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl. Our attorneys can provide guidance on the defense strategies that may be used in drug crime cases, such as challenging illegal searches or seizures by law enforcement.
Attorney Spotlight
Jeffrey D. Muntz
- Best Lawyers, Ones to Watch, 2023 - Present
- Elite Lawyer, 2018 - Present
- "10 Best" for Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
- "10 Best" for Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
- Leading Lawyers, Emerging Lawyers, 2016
- Lead Counsel Rated
Theft and Shoplifting Charges
A person who is accused of stealing property may face misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of an alleged offense. Whether a person is charged with theft from a person, burglary involving breaking and entering with the intent to commit theft, or shoplifting from a retail store, our lawyers can review the evidence and take steps to defend against a conviction.
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Illinois has strict laws governing the possession and use of firearms and other weapons. Charges related to the unlawful use of a weapon may involve carrying a gun without a valid Firearm Owner's Identification Card or concealed carry license, carrying a weapon in a prohibited location like a school or government building, or possessing a prohibited weapon like a machine gun or sawed-off shotgun. Convicted felons and others who are prohibited from possessing firearms may face serious felony charges if they are accused of using weapons. Our attorneys can provide the legal help needed to defend against gun and weapons charges.
Traffic Violations and Related Charges
While many traffic violations will result in fines, some offenses may result in criminal penalties, including the possibility of jail time. Charges such as driving under the influence, driving with a suspended or revoked license, or reckless driving are more serious than traffic tickets. Our attorneys can help clients understand the potential consequences of these charges, and we will work to minimize the ways a person's driving record and daily life may be affected.
Diversion Programs in Illinois
Depending on the nature of a criminal charge and a person's criminal history, a person may be able to participate in diversion programs that will allow their case to be resolved without a criminal conviction. Court supervision, deferred prosecution agreements, or probation may be available in some cases. First-time drug offenders may be eligible for probation or drug court, allowing them to receive substance abuse treatment while avoiding the penalties of a criminal conviction. Our lawyers can evaluate whether a client may qualify for a diversion program, and we will advocate for solutions that will minimize the impact of a criminal charge on a person's life.
Expungement and Record Sealing
To help a person move forward after being arrested or convicted, options for relief may be available. Taking steps to clear a criminal record can help a person avoid issues that could affect their ability to obtain employment or find housing in the future. An expungement will completely remove criminal records, and it may be available if a case did not result in a conviction. If records related to an offense are not eligible for expungement, record sealing may be available, and it will prevent most records from being accessible to the public. Our attorneys can determine whether a person may qualify for expungement or sealing, and we can make sure the right steps are followed to clear their record.
Trusted Award-Winning ExperiencedProtecting what you hold close when it Matters Most.
"Jeff M. was great! Always communicated to me quickly and explained level of detail that was understandable."
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Cases FAQs
Answer: In an arrest, a person will be taken into custody based on the suspicion that they have committed a crime. A conviction will occur after a person pleads guilty or is found guilty in a criminal court. While a person may be held in custody by police after being arrested, the penalties for a criminal offense will not apply until they are convicted.
Answer: Most criminal charges require at least one court appearance. Many cases can be resolved without a full trial by negotiating agreements with prosecutors or participating in diversion programs. Our lawyers can help clients understand when they will be required to go to court, and we will provide representation during legal proceedings.
Answer: In some cases, a felony charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor through negotiations with the prosecution. If a case involves mitigating factors, if the evidence does not support a felony charge, or if a case can be resolved through a plea agreement, a person may be able to avoid a felony conviction. Our attorneys can advise clients on the best steps to take to minimize their charges and avoid serious penalties.
Answer: Even if a criminal offense may seem minor, it can still result in serious penalties, including a permanent criminal record. Representation by an attorney during a criminal case can help you protect your rights and avoid problems that could affect you in the future.
Contact Our Hinsdale, IL Criminal Defense Lawyers
At Goostree Law Group, we can provide compassionate, experienced representation for people who are facing criminal charges. We will help clients understand their legal options, and we will advocate for their rights as we work to resolve criminal cases. Contact our Hinsdale criminal law attorneys at 630-584-4800 to schedule a free consultation.














