Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chicago | 173 available

173 Criminal Defense lawyers are available in Chicago, Illinois. These lawyers are rated between 4.7/5 to 5.0/5 and 59% provide free consultation.

Criminal Defense Lawyers Nearby Chicago (by distance)

Within 1 mile near you

Criminal Defense Attorney (Chicago Area) 60604 0.6 miles (28 lawyers)

Within 5 miles near you

Criminal Defense Attorney (Chicago Area) 60612 3.4 miles (4 lawyers)

Within 10 miles near you

Criminal Defense Attorney (Cicero Area) 60804 7.7 miles (2 lawyers)

Within 25 miles near you

Criminal Defense Attorney (Park Ridge Area) 60068 14.4 miles (6 lawyers)

Criminal Defense Attorney (Palos Hills Area) 60465 16.7 miles (3 lawyers)

Criminal Defense Attorney (Oak Brook Area) 60523 17.4 miles (8 lawyers)

Criminal Defense Attorney (Clarendon Hills Area) 60514 18.3 miles (4 lawyers)


Criminal Defense Case Statistics Overview

Criminal Defense Case Timeline

Min2Max18

Criminal defense cases in Chicago typically resolve within 2 to 18 months, depending on case complexity, court schedules, and whether the matter proceeds to trial.

Chicago Court Backlog

Low500Medium1500High3000

The Cook County court system often manages a backlog ranging from 500 to 3,000 criminal cases, reflecting both new filings and ongoing matters.

Criminal Defense Chicago Filing Volume

Min700Max1800

Estimated monthly criminal case filings in Chicago range from 700 to 1,800, based on recent public court data.

Criminal Defense Case Outcomes

Pre-litigation25Post-filing35Trial10

Resolution rates vary: approximately 25% of cases resolve before formal charges, 35% after filing but before trial, and about 10% result in favorable trial outcomes for defendants.


173 Criminal Defense Lawyers Found Near You

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60601
Firm: Law Offices of George M. Sanders, P. C.
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

John Yetter finished Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics, earning University Honors and NCAA Academic All-American status. He graduated in 1996 from the University of Dayton School of Law, earning University awards for his studies in Advocacy and Property Law while also giving time to the tax and disability law clinics.. Mr. Yetter’s practice is dedicated to complex litigation and appeals. In the last twenty years, he tried over forty jury trials as first chair counsel in addition to over one hundred bench trials and numerous administrative and regulatory hearings. This history includes capital, complex financial, transactional, health care and anti-trust cases.. He has written and argued dozens of appeals to Illinois Appellate Courts, the Illinois Supreme Court and the Federal Circuit Court. In 2007 he was the lead author of a Petition for Writ of Certiorari to the United States Supreme Court.. Mr. Yetter is a member of the Illinois Bar (1996), the U.S. District Court of Northern Illinois Trial Bar (2001), Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals (2003), and the United States Supreme Court (2005). He has been admitted, pro hac vice, in Indiana, Wisconsin and New Mexico.. An active member of the Chicago, Illinois and Kane County Bar associations, Mr. Yetter has written and presented Continuing Legal Education seminars on topics including jury selection, administrative hearing procedures and appellate practice.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.5 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60606
Firm: Joel Gould Law Offices
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

Joel Gould has more than 30 years of experience defending clients in the Chicago-land area and surrounding counties against a wide range of criminal charges, including DUI, gun crimes, drug crimes, and felonies.  Mr. Gould is an experienced trial attorney who has handled thousands of cases and more than 400 trials.  In 2014, he was named by The National Trial Lawyers as one of the "Top 100 DUI Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers." Membership into The National Trial Lawyers is by invitation only and extended to those attorneys who exemplify superior qualifications, trial results, and leadership in their respective state. In 2013, Mr. Gould was also named as one of the “Top 100 DUI Attorneys in the State of Illinois” by the National Advocacy of DUI Defense. The National Advocacy for DUI Defense recognizes and selects those it has determined are the nation’s best private DUI attorneys in the nation.   In addition to criminal law matters, Mr. Gould also handles cases involving personal injury, medical malpractice, and worker's compensation.  He has helped recover millions of dollars for his clients and their families in cases ranging from motor vehicle and construction accidents to nursing home abuse and wrongful death.. Mr. Gould is a graduate of the John Marshall Law School and was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1981. He is married and has three sons.  For a free consultation, contact Joel Gould at his downtown office at 205 W. Randolph Street or his neighborhood office on Belmont Avenue.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.2 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60607
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

James F. DiQuattro is an accomplished criminal defense attorney practicing in Chicago, IL. With over a decade of experience handling both misdemeanors and felonies, he offers comprehensive representation at both the state and federal levels including sex crimes, drug crimes, violent crimes, DUI/DWIs, white collar crimes and more. When dealing with situations like this, where potential penalties such as large fines, imprisonment, or probation may arise, it is crucial to ensure you have proper legal representation. James DiQuattro is seasoned that will provide aggressive and dedicated representation.. To schedule your consultation with the Chicago attorney, visit his website and reach out through the online contact form or a quick phone call.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.5 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60602
Firm: Galhotra Law
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

In my law practice,  deep expertise meets unwavering dedication. With decades of experience navigating the complexities of Illinois Criminal and Juvenile law, I have built a reputation as a trusted advocate and advisor. As an adjunct faculty member at Chicago-Kent College of Law, I am not only shaping the next generation of legal professionals but also staying at the forefront of legal developments. My leadership roles in the Illinois Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Illinois State Bar Assocation reflect my commitment to advancing the profession, ensuring lawyers across the state remain informed and prepared for the ever-evolving legal landscape. When you work with me you gain a partner who combines knowledge, insight, and a passion for achieving the best outcomes for you and your case.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60602
Firm: Gruszeczki & Smith Law, LLP
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I've been a lifelong resident of Cook County, born and raised on the northwest side of the city. After graduating from law school, I worked as a prosecutor in Cook County.  I've taken what I've learned there to represent my clients vigorously. I pride myself in helping my clients get results.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 3.3 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60601
Firm: Law Offices of Ferris, Thompson, & Zweig
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I'm a Chicagoland native born and raised, now happy to offer my legal services to the community I love.  In my free time I enjoy fitness and weightlifting, riding my motorcycle, and trading stocks and cryptocurrencies.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.9 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60606
Firm: John D. Donlevy
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I place a strong emphasis on providing my clients with personalized attention and responsive legal service. I treat every client with respect, care and compassion and work my hardest to develop innovative and winning strategies for each client’s legal problems.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60612
Firm: Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I have practiced law now for more than 1/2 of my life, focused primarily in the areas of Criminal Defense, DUI/Traffic Defense, Driver's License Reinstatement, and Immigration. In my 29 plus years of practicing law, I have tried cases ranging from First Degree Murder, on down to defending minor traffic and local ordinance tickets. I have appeared in Federal Courts, other State Courts on a pro hoc vice basis, such as Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Arizona. I believe that everyone, regardless of their "station in life" is entitled to the best defense that I can give them. I believe that our system of justice, while not perfect, is still the greatest in the world, and the Constitution and Bill of Rights offer the best chance of achieving Justice.. I like to think that no case is too big, or too small, for me to take on. The day that I can no longer find the words to speak on behalf of even the most unpopular client will be the day that I retire. I said that when I was in Law School, and I still say that today.

Avvo Rating: Rated 2.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 3.3 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60604
Firm: Steven D. Pick, P.C.
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I have over 27 years experience on the defense side in dealing in all Cook County Criminal Trial Courts, Misdemeanor Trial Courts, Felony Branch Courts, Suburban Courts, Misdemeanor Branch Courts, Traffic Courts, Illinois Appellate Court, Illinois Supreme Court, Federal District Court, the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court.. I am licensed to practice in all Illinois State Courts and Federal District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.. I successfully represented clients charged with first degree murder to narcotics possession to criminal trespass to speeding.  I believe every client has constitutional rights that need to be proctected.. I provide reasonable fees and honest representation for all.. I realize that most clients and their family members have not dealt with the criminal justice system.  This leaves them feeling scared and confused.  I am familiar with the criminal justice system, the judges, and the prosecutors.  I have an excellent working relationship with the courts, and I strive to offer the best representation possible to my clients.. In the wake of the recent immigration frenzy over the last few years, I have been growing an immigration practice.  I have counseled many clients in obtaining legal status in the United States.  I have helped U.S. citizens that marry foreign spouses, I have assisted in asylum related cases, change of status situations, work authorizations, and employment-based immigration and naturalization.  I have appeared at the USCIS and U.S. Immigration Court.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.1 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60661
Firm: Todd Projansky
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I have been practicing since 1993.  My practice consists of traffic, DUIs, Driver License Restoration, Administrative Law, and Criminal Law.  I have also handled bankruptcy matters, personal injury cases and some Civil matters.. My sole form of advertisement is the good old fashioned business card.  I work hard for my clients and hope that they will refer others based on the positive results.

Lawyers Rating: Rated 3.6 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60612
Firm: Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I have 20 years of experience in Criminal Defense, DUI/Traffic law, civil litigation and Immigration Law. I am a tireless litigator with experience in pre-trial, jury and bench trials, and post-trial litigation. I have tried everything from First Degree Murders, controlled substance cases, criminal sexual assaults, gun cases, armed robberies to DUIs and license reinstatement administrative matters. I have appeared in federal cases and state criminal cases on a pro hac vice basis in Indiana, Texas, Iowa and various counties around Illinois. I have supervised attorneys for over 10 years in the Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender in felony cases, traffic cases, post-trial and appeals, and child protection cases. I have clerked in the Executive Office for Immigration Review and appeared in removal cases Chicago. I am an excellent legal writer and researcher and have had cases I tried overturned on appeal due to my trial work. I have trained attorneys in issues such as collateral consequences for defendant's facing criminal cases and written and edited IICLE articles on pre-trial issues, guilty pleas and defenses.. Facing criminal charges or traffic tickets can be stresssful situations for those involved. As an attorney, my main job is to advocate for my client as forcefully and effectively as possible in whatever legal challenges that the client faces. We have a Constitution and system of justice that can seem overwhelming to ordinary citizens. Therefore, I treat every case with the utmost care it deserves and am always available to answer clients' questions or concerns. I am very experienced, knowledgeable and committed to my clients. As such, I am proud of my reputation for outstanding client care and satisfaction.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60602
Firm: Law Offices of Darryl A. Goldberg
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I consider myself an aggressive, prepared, and determined criminal defense lawyer and I've devoted myself to my profession. I am fascinated by the law and I enjoy fighting to protect the rights of my clients.  Whether you are charged with first degree murder or a misdemeanor marijuana case, I always give 100%.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.7 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60604
Firm: Durkin and Roberts
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am dedicated to protecting your rights and will provide you with the best possible defense.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.8 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60604
Firm: Thedford Garber Law
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am an energetic, motivated, and hard working criminal defense and civil rights attorney. I put my clients first.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60601
Firm: Ciardelli, Cummings & Campagna, LLC
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am a litigator with substantial trial experience in a variety of complex matters. My focus is on work related injuries, personal injury and criminal defense. I also have substantial experience handling business litigation and transactional work incuding representing clients in both residential and commerical real estate deals and representing clients in the purchase and sale of their business.

Avvo Rating: Rated 4.8 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60607
Firm: Steven R. Hunter
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am a graduate of the highly ranked University of Michigan Law School.  My legal education laid the foundation for my career as a criminal defense attorney.  I have specialized in criminal defense for over 35 years.  In that time I have tried thousands of cases, both bench trials and juries, and litigated hundreds of motions. My experience includes Illinois state and federal courts.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60607
Firm: The Tsataros Law Office
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am a former prosecutor with over 25 years of experience handling thousands of cases including speeding and traffic tickets, DUI, and more serious misdemeanor and felony offenses. I am now here to apply my vast knowledge and experience in the criminal justice system to your case.I am licensed to handle all cases across the states of Illinois, Indiana and Florida.. I pride myself on my ethics, my connections and my experience! I listen to my clients, determine what their legal issues may be and then explain in a straightforward manner what penalties or punishments they may be facing and what their options are to resolve their case. I am a seasoned litigator and am not afraid to fight for my clients in and out of the courtroom. I return all client phone calls within the same business day and set very reasonable fees on all matters.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60604
Firm: JPMorgan Chase Tower
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am a criminal defense lawyer that has specialized in criminal defense  since I graduated law school, over 22 years. I have practiced criminal defense both in Houston, Texas and in the Chicago area, where my main focus is federal law.. I attended the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College in 2000 and have been returning as faculty since 2004.  I am  Board Certified  by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in the area of Criminal Law and Criminal Apellate law.. I have always have had a passion for defending people accused by the government and believe that a strong defense is a personalized defense based upon the needs of the individual representing.  I strive to combine my knowledge of the law and my understanding of my client to formulate a defense strategy that best serves each individual I represent.. In addition to the law, I enjoy running marathons, cycling, triathalons and completed tough mudder event in Austin Texas.  I have recently started playing the piano again after 20 years.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60607
Firm: Law Offices of Christopher C. Syregelas
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

I am a Criminal Defense Attorney with experience from both sides of the courtroom. My experience as a prosecutor has helped prepare me to provide the best legal representation for individuals who have been arrested. I handle all types of criminal matters ranging from Murder cases to simple traffic matters. I have tried several hundred felony bench trials and many felony jury trials.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 3.8 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60601
Firm: The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens - Chicago
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

Hello- I am Robert Edens and I  am here to help people navigate the complexities of the legal system. On your behalf, I will aggressively pursue your interests and protect your rights. With over 20 years of experience, I have resolved thousands of cases; relieving clients of the anxiety caused by the financial burden and uncertainty that often accompanies their case.. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or for a free case evaluation.  .

Avvo Rating: Rated 4.8 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.9 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60606
Firm: Kostopoulos Law Group, LLC
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

Gus Kostopoulos is a former prosecutor with over 18 years experience successfully handling criminal law matters. As a prosecutor, Mr. Kostopoulos was nominated to first chair in the courtroom.. Mr. Kostopoulos handles all criminal defense matters including domestic violence, DUI, theft crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, and white collar crimes.. If you have been charged with a crime, call us today for a free consultation.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.8 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60603
Firm: FisherLevine Law Group LLP
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

Former Cook County Prosecutor

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.3 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60661
Firm: The Herbert Law Firm
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

Former Chicago Police Officer- Born and raised on Chicago’s Northside, Dan followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a Chicago police officer and working as a member of Chicago’s Police Department for nearly ten years receiving numerous awards, including a Distinguished Service Award for his role in the shooting apprehension of a dangerous offender. During his tenure on the CPD, he attended night school and earned a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice from Lewis University, then enrolled in law school and earned his Juris Doctorate from DePaul University College of Law.. Former Prosecutor- After earning his law degree, Dan left the CPD and went to work as a Cook County Prosecutor for the following four years. As an assistant state’s attorney, he began by prosecuting DUIs and his continuous hard work and success saw him promoted to the Felony Narcotics Unit where he handled street level and long-term conspiracy cases. He spent his final year in the Felony Trial Division, prosecuting violent crimes including armed robberies, criminal sexual assaults and murders, serving as lead attorney in over 100 trials and further developing his expertise as a litigator and an aggressive advocate.. Former In-house Attorney For the Fraternal Order of the opportunity to serve as in-house counsel for the Fraternal Order of Police, Dan left the state’s attorney office and presided over Chicago Lodge #7 for the ensuing five years. His diverse practice involved the representation of hundreds of officers in criminal, civil, labor and administrative proceedings throughout his five year tenure at the FOP.

Avvo Rating: Rated 4.8 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60601
Firm: Pissetzky Law LLC
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

For the greater part of the past two decades, Gal Pissetzky devotes his life to defending the rights of those accused with a variety of state and federal criminal felony charges. Mr. Pissetzky has taken over 100 cases to trial both before a jury and before a judge. He has litigated countless motions in which law enforcement violated his client's Constitutional rights. Mr. Pissetzky has handled multi-issue complex trials and appeals. He has argued before the Illinois Supreme Court, as well as numerous Illinois and Federal Appellate Courts. His practice focuses only on defending clients accused of federal crimes, white collar crimes, sex offenses, large-scale drug crimes, and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder and gun offenses.. He has been vigorously representing clients in both the state and federal court systems. Located in Chicago, he represents clients throughout Illinois and the country. Mr. Pissetzky prides himself on providing superior client service. He is truly dedicated to protecting the rights of his clients and preserving their future.. Mr. Pissetzky combines his vast legal knowledge with his superior understanding of the court systems to provide the best possible defense for his clients. He will listen to his clients, conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation, and analyze the applicable law in light of the specific facts in order to pursue the best defense possible.. Mr. Pissetzky is a well-respected member of the legal community. He has represented many clients in high-profile cases, and is frequently quoted in the press. He regularly appears on TV as the legal consultan/advisor regarding high profile criminal cases. He was named one of Illinois' Rising Stars 2011™ by Super Lawyers ®magazine, as well as one of the "10 Best Client Satisfaction" attorneys by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, and "Top 100 Trial Lawyers: Illinois" by The American Trial Lawyers Association.. Mr. Pissetzky began his successful career as a defense attorney in 2002 after spending four years with the Cook County State Attorney's Office. He obtained his J.D. from the John Marshall Law School. He is a member of the Illinois Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Lawyers Rating: Rated 4.8 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.4 out of 5

Location: Chicago 60604
Firm: Law Office of Steven Fine
Area(s) of Practice: Criminal Defense

For 20 years, Steven Fine has been practicing law. As a Chicago criminal defense attorney, he knows how to handle all types of charges, from sex crimes to theft offenses. Steven understands the complex nature of the criminal justice system and knows what to expect going into a courtroom. He gained experience as a former prosecutor, building his legal skills and crafting a unique knowledge that now helps him on the other side of the courtroom. Steven holds a 9.5 Superb rating on Avvo and has been included in the Super Lawyers® list. He has the experience, determination, reputation, and will to succeed in your case. Contact his firm at.

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Disclaimer: This content is based on aggregated public information and estimated market trends. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.