Free Consultations | Available Six Days a Week | 30+ Years of Trial Experience | Chicago Loop – Across from the Daley Center
Free Consultations | Available Six Days a Week | 30+ Years of Trial Experience | Chicago Loop – Across from the Daley Center
100% FREE CONSULTATION
Illinois State Criminal Defense Attorneys
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Not-guilty verdicts in murder, attempted-murder, and Class X felony trials.
By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted, to our terms, and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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Across from the Daley Center
Leonard Trial Lawyers is a Chicago-based trial firm led by nationally recognized veteran trial attorney Mike Leonard, an Adjunct Professor of Trial Practice at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. The team is respected for its creativity, energy, and preparedness in the courtroom, building unique defense strategies based on the charges, the venue, and the unique circumstances of each case. Mike Leonard is believed to be the only currently practicing attorney to have obtained six or more complete not guilty jury verdicts on all counts and charges in federal criminal prosecutions brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois, and he has secured comparable results in Illinois state courts across Cook, DuPage, Kane, and Lake Counties.
Testimonials do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.
Secured a complete not guilty verdict in a state court murder trial after our client had been detained for seven years awaiting trial.
Won acquittal on all counts for a client charged with attempted murder in Cook County.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
We meet with you to learn the facts, review any charging documents, and identify immediate risks. This initial evaluation helps us determine the strongest defense strategy from the outset.
Our team gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and scrutinizes police reports, search warrants, and forensic materials. We identify weaknesses in the state's case and prepare to challenge unlawful evidence.
We file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, and limit the prosecution's proof. When beneficial, we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges.
If your case proceeds to trial, we bring decades of courtroom experience and a track record of not-guilty verdicts to your defense. We plan closing arguments from day one and fight for a favorable resolution.
Every state criminal case is different, but acting quickly can make a significant difference. Learn what to expect, how the legal process works, and the steps you can take to protect your future.
State crimes are prosecuted by county State's Attorneys under Illinois law and heard in Illinois state courts, while federal crimes are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office under federal law. State charges in Illinois can range from misdemeanors to Class X felonies such as murder or armed robbery.
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present, and politely invoke your right to remain silent and to counsel. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately so your rights are protected from the very first interaction.
Illinois felonies are graded from Class 4 (lowest) to Class X (highest), with penalties ranging from probation and short prison terms to decades in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Class X felonies such as aggravated criminal sexual assault and armed robbery carry mandatory prison time of at least 6 to 30 years.
Yes. Charges can be reduced or dismissed through pretrial motions, suppression of illegally obtained evidence, or negotiations with the prosecutor. A thorough investigation and aggressive motion practice often create leverage for a better outcome.
No. Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right not to testify, and the jury cannot use your silence against you. Whether or not to testify is a strategic decision made with your attorney based on the facts of your case.
When you’re facing state criminal charges, every decision matters. Our attorneys bring decades of courtroom experience, strategic case preparation, and a proven record of defending clients against felony and misdemeanor charges throughout Illinois. We investigate every detail, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to protect your freedom and future.
Contact Leonard Trial Lawyers today – free, confidential consultations for Illinois state criminal charges. The sooner we hear the facts, the more options you keep.
By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted, to our terms, and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.
The information on this page is for general information only and is not legal advice. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Testimonials do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.
