Chicago Defense Attorney For Unlawful Possession Of Firearm Charges
In Illinois, particularly Chicago, charges of unlawful possession of a firearm carry severe consequences. The state maintains strict regulations on who can legally possess weapons, and violations of these laws often result in serious criminal penalties.
Attorney Frank Tedesso has defended clients facing weapon charges throughout the Chicago area for over 30 years. At The Law Office of Frank A. Tedesso, he works directly with clients from the first phone call, providing personalized attention and strategic defense against firearm possession charges.
Types Of Unlawful Possession Charges
Illinois law establishes multiple categories of prohibited weapon possession, each with specific requirements and elements that prosecutors must prove. These include:
- Felon in possession charges apply when someone with a prior felony conviction possesses any type of firearm, including a handgun, rifle or shotgun, regardless of whether the weapon was loaded.
- Possession by minors involves cases where individuals under 21 possess firearms without proper adult supervision, approved training programs or hunting licenses.
- Carrying without proper licensing occurs when someone carries a concealed gun without obtaining the mandatory Illinois Concealed Carry License.
- FOID card violations arise when individuals possess firearms without obtaining or maintaining a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification card or failing to update the required information.
Understanding these distinct categories helps identify potential defense approaches based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Serious Penalties For Unlawful Firearm Possession
The Illinois criminal justice system treats weapon possession violations with particular severity. Years of experience defending these cases have shown how these consequences can impact every aspect of a person’s life:
- Felony convictions carry mandatory minimum prison sentences from two to 10 years without probation eligibility.
- Fines can reach $25,000 plus mandatory court costs and fees.
- Permanent revocation of firearm ownership rights at both state and federal levels.
- Career impacts affect employment opportunities, housing applications and immigration status.
- Probation requirements include regular reporting and restrictions on travel.
- Mandatory surrender of all firearms results in a lifetime prohibition on future possession.
These penalties underscore the importance of mounting an aggressive defense from the outset of the case with the help of a skilled lawyer.
Contact A Chicago Gun Possession Defense Lawyer
If you face an unlawful possession of a firearm charge in Chicago or surrounding counties, call 312-761-1072 or contact his office online. Frank Tedesso will review your case details and explain potential defense options during an initial consultation.