Arlington Heights, Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers

Respected Criminal Defense Attorneys for Clients in Arlington Heights

A criminal accusation can jeopardize your immediate future as well as your long-term goals. Navigating the legal system after an arrest is often overwhelming without legal guidance, and it is in stressful situations like these where people tend to make mistakes. For legal advice and counsel, reach out to an Arlington Heights criminal defense attorney.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we have received over 200 5-star reviews for our client-focused advocacy in serious misdemeanor and felony cases. Among other successful victories, we have covered high-profile criminal defense cases involving doctors, athletes, and public figures. You can count on our firm to fight for your rights in court as we seek an ideal outcome to your case.

Attorney Spotlight

Attorney Spotlight

Donald Ramsell

Attorney Profile

Donald Ramsell is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney who has represented clients in more than 500 bench trials and 100 jury trials. He is the author of leading publications on DUI defense in Illinois, and he has defended more than 10,000 DUI cases. He has handled numerous appeals in Illinois, and he also argued a case before the United States Supreme Court.

• National College of DUI Defense, Sustaining Member
• Top 100 Trial Lawyer Award, National Trial Lawyers
• Super Lawyers
• Elite Lawyer
• Leading Lawyers

How to Challenge a DUI Charge in Arlington Heights

A DUI arrest can be stressful, but an arrest is not a conviction. Illinois prosecutors must prove the stop, investigation, testing, and arrest were lawful and reliable. Our firm wrote the book on DUI defense in Illinois, and we approach these cases by looking for pressure points the state may overlook. Possible DUI defenses may include:

• Lack of reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop
• Improper field sobriety testing or unclear officer instructions
• Medical conditions, fatigue, injury, or anxiety mistaken for impairment
• Unreliable breath, blood, or urine test results
• Problems with machine calibration or testing procedure
• Rising blood alcohol levels after driving
• Lack of probable cause for the arrest
• Video evidence that conflicts with the police report

A strong defense may also address the driver's license consequences that begin quickly after an arrest. A first DUI conviction can result in a loss of full driving privileges, fines, and possible jail time. The sooner a defense lawyer reviews the evidence, the easier it may be to preserve video, challenge the suspension, and identify weaknesses before the case gains momentum.

Punishment for Retail Theft and Robbery in Illinois

Retail theft can involve shoplifting, switching price tags, under-ringing merchandise, using theft detection shielding devices, or leaving a store without paying. In Illinois, the value of the property, prior record, and facts of the alleged incident can change the charge dramatically. A lower-value retail theft may be charged as a misdemeanor, but higher-value allegations or prior theft-related convictions can lead to felony charges.

Robbery is more serious because it involves taking property from a person or in someone's presence by force or threat of force. Aggravating factors, such as injury, age of the alleged victim, or the alleged use of a weapon, can expose a person to severe felony penalties. These cases often center on particular details, such as the alleged stolen property, whether force was used, if the accused person was correctly identified, and whether or not the state can prove intent.

Facing Drug Possession or Distribution Charges?

Drug cases in Cook County may involve allegations of possession, possession with intent to deliver, delivery, manufacturing, or trafficking. The difference between simple possession and distribution often depends on surrounding facts, such as the amount of the substance, packaging, statements, cash, scales, messages, or alleged hand-to-hand transactions.

Police must have a lawful reason to stop a person, search a car, enter a home, or seize property. When officers overstep, evidence may be challenged. In other cases, our defense strategy may challenge if the prosecution can prove possession. Issues can also be raised about lab testing or the reliability of witness statements.

Contact an Arlington Heights, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we can examine the evidence, explain the risks, and build a defense based around your specific circumstances. Call 847-465-8743 or contact our Arlington Heights, Illinois criminal defense lawyers to schedule a free consultation.