Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in CHICAGO | 196 available

196 Criminal Defense lawyers are available in CHICAGO, Illinois, including C. Norris Law Group, Charles M. Baum, Chicago Trusted Attorneys, and Chris Brockman. These lawyers are rated between 4.2/5 to 4.6/5 and 70% provide free consultation.

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.

Yelp Rating: Rated 1.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

C. Norris Law Group

Firm: C. Norris Law Group
900 W Jackson Blvd , Chicago , Illinois 60607
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Yelp Review
“Hi girls and guys! I can't say this attorney is good or bad but what I can say is that I needed a civil rights attorney and so I contacted Ms.C.Norris her...”
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Google Review
“Attorney Cierra Norris is truly dedicated to her clients. She gives every case her full attention, respect, and time, and she goes above and beyond to fight for the best outcome. C…”
— Kelli Rivers
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Daniel Kessler

Firm: Law Office of Joel Kessler
4311 N Ravenswood Ave Ste 210 , Chicago , Illinois 60613
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
At our law office in Chicago, we are not just legal professionals; we are a dedicated father and son team with a passion for upholding justice. With extensive experience in both Criminal and Family Law, we approach each case as seasoned trial attorneys. Our philosophy is simple yet profound: we are committed to defending our clients' rights with unwavering dedication and integrity. We believe in providing personalized, compassionate support during the most challenging times in our clients' lives, ensuring they receive the legal guidance they deserve in the heart of Chicago.
Avvo Review
“nkful they did. Mr. Kessler took on the case, explaining everything clearly without talking down to”
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Lawyers.com Review
“Daniel is caring, competent, effective and efficient. I trust my clients to him in traffic court.”
Avvo Rating: Rated 3.7 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Dorothy Johnson

Firm: Johnson & Associates, P.C.
887 North La Salle Street , Chicago , Illinois 60610
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense , Family , Probate , Real Estate , Criminal Defense
Google Review
“I had the same problem as the other review. Terrible attitude. Didn't explain anything. Took my money and took me for a ride. Big mistake. Do yourself a favor and stay away. She ga…”
— Nick Zayed
Avvo Rating: Rated 4.2 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Diane Ainsworth

The Transportation Building   203 North La Salle S , Chicago , Illinois 60601
Practice Areas: Civil ,Civil Rights,Contracts,Corporate ,Criminal Defense ,Estate ,Estate Planning,Guardianship and Conservatorship,Leases and Leasing,Probate ,Trusts,Wills
Avvo Review
“Ms. Ainsworth represented me in 2004 on a high profile probate case. She went against was one of the larger firms in the Chicago area and did not hesi...”
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Google Review
“If anyone from this firm reads this your name is being used as part of a debt collections scam.”
— Jesse Curtis
Avvo Rating: Rated 3.6 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Denise Nalley

Firm: Denise M. Nalley
2134 W. Chicago Ave. , Chicago , Illinois 60622
Practice Areas: Assault & Battery, Criminal Defense , Domestic Violence, Drug Crimes, DUI/DWI, Felonies, Traffic Violations, Violent Crime
Lawyers.com Review
“As a prosecutor I handled many cases against Denise and always appreciated her preparedness for court and pleasant disposition. Denise has been a fixture in the criminal courts of …”
Avvo Rating: Rated 3.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Dena Singer

Firm: Bedi & Singer, LLP
910 West Van Buren Street , Chicago , Illinois 60607
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Avvo Review
“She told me she didn’t want her clients to fight they case from the world she was steady trying to”
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Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

David Freidberg

Firm: David L. Freidberg, P.C.
70 West Madison Street , Chicago , Illinois 60602
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
My firm is here for your protection, first and foremost.  If you have been accused or arrested for criminal activity, we provide the best representation. Our skilled criminal defense team practices aggressive, proactive and highly-creative defense strategies to protect your rights. Why? Because we know there are thousands of innocent people spending time in prison for something they didn't do! The driving force behind this law firm is our desire to protect your rights and your liberty. Our results are outstanding. In fact quite often our experience in the courtroom ensures that many cases avoid the necessity of everhaving to go to trial.  Our extensive relationships with the prosecutors, courtroom personnel and the judiciary resuilt in numerous charges being dismissed entirely or at the very least having your charges reduced so as to avoid ANY prison or jail incarceration and avoiding ANY criminal record that would affect future employment, education, the ability to obtain housing or even obtaining a loan from a financial institution.. Each criminal case is unique, and only an experienced specialist can anticipate the infinite variables in every criminal case. We provide the type of representation that a criminal defendant needs to successfully protect their rights. The truth is, no matter what the person's intelligence or educational background, the criminal justice system makes it virtually impossible to do a competent job of representing oneself. That’s our job. We have represented thousands of clients in Cook, Lake, DuPage, Will, McHenry and Kane counties, in addition to Federal Courts in Illinois.. Regardless of who you employ for legal representation, allow us to offer this piece of advice:you should strongly avoid discussing your case or signing any statements against your interest without having an experienced criminal defense attorney at your side.  As you may be aware, any statement made can and will be used against you by the prosecution.. Additionally, you would be well-advised to avoid entering a plea of guilty on any offense without the sound advice of a defense attorney.  It makes no difference whether the crime is a small misdemeanor or a serious felony.  Any conviction on your criminal record may have adverse affects to your future employment.. It may seem dauting at first, but contacting an attorney at the very beginning of a case can be the smartest move you make.  We are available 24/7 to provide you with a FREE consultation with no obligation.  Mr. Freidberg will provide you with general guidance and straight forward answers to the questions that are probably going through your mind right now. CALL US:
Avvo Review
“I highly recommend David Freidberg to anyone seeking legal representation. He is not only a skilled”
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Lawyers.com Review
“David is a thorough and caring attorney committed to helping individuals clear their records within Cook County, Illinois. I am proud to be in his group of peers.”
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Darryl Goldberg

Firm: Law Offices of Darryl A. Goldberg
33 North Dearborn Street, Suite 1830 , Chicago , Illinois 60602
Practice Areas: Civil , Criminal Defense , Drug Crimes, Personal Injury, White Collar Crime, Federal Crime
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 Review
“ton DC prosecuted me in California. My prospects were grim. Other defendants in my case had previous”
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Lawyers.com Review
“I highly endorse Mr. Goldberg. Very knowledgeable and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first…”
Yelp Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Daniel S Khwaja

Firm: Daniel S Khwaja
1115 N Asland , Chicago , Illinois 60622
Practice Areas: Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense
Yelp Review
“Won my case. Mr. Khwaja is extremely tenacious and knowledgeable. From the first consultation that we met I knew this was the guy. The mortgage lender had...”
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Google Review
“Dan is an excellent attorney and I’m so happy that I met him when I did. His skill and experience in the areas of foreclosure defense and bankruptcies is unmatched by any attorney …”
— Peter Ciesielski
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Daniel Herbert

Firm: The Herbert Law Firm
206 S Jefferson St Ste 100 , Chicago , Illinois 60661
Practice Areas: 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 Review
“ompassionate, and helpful are some of the words that come to mind.”
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Avvo Rating: Rated 3.3 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Charles M. Baum

Firm: Schwartz Cooper Chartered
180 North La Salle Street 2700  60 , Chicago , Illinois 60601
Practice Areas: Civil ,Corporate ,Criminal Defense
Avvo Rating: Rated 4.1 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Daniel Hartnett

Firm: Martin, Brown and Sullivan, Ltd.
135 South Lasalle Street, Suite 3200 , Chicago , Illinois 60603
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense , Taxation - State & Federal, Tax
Built on the foundation of his service as a federal prosecutor and a civil trial attorney with the U.S. Justice Department's Tax Division, Mr. Hartnett's practice now focuses on assisting individuals and entities in 6 areas: - federal criminal prosecutions, - federal civil tax controversies, - conducting corporate internal investigations, - professionals before licensing authorities, - witnesses in federal investigations, and - federal and state appeals.
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Dan Tsataros

Firm: The Tsataros Law Office
800 S. Wells , Chicago , Illinois 60607
Practice Areas: 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 Review
“r me. Throughout the process of waiting to hear from the courts (which can be a long process); my”
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Lawyers.com Review
“Attorney Tsataros is one of the most ethical and reputable attorneys in the practice of law. His knowledge of the law and professionalism, both with his clients and in the courtroo…”
Yelp Rating: Rated 1.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Dailey Law Firm

Firm: Dailey Law Firm
30 N Lasalle St , Chicago , Illinois 60602
Practice Areas: Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, Medical
Yelp Review
“Run! This law firms communication is zero, it's been almost 4 years and finally I gave up”
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Google Review
“Kinnan Ghali is an excellent attorney who really goes above and beyond for his clients. I would trust him with anything so please do not hesitate to call him.”
— Penny Siebert
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Christopher Wright

Firm: Law Office of Christopher M. R. Wright
11528 S Halsted , Chicago , Illinois 60628
Practice Areas: Drug Crime, Criminal Defense
Christopher has been instrumental in facilitating positive outcomes for criminal and civil cases. With well over half a decade of industry experience, Christopher is the sole principal owner of the Law Office of Christopher M.R. Wright.. Most notably, Christopher has successfully represented a variety of clients. He is a graduate of Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He is an active member of the Illinois Bar Association and the Cook County Bar Association. Outside of the office, Christopher enjoys watching sports, traveling, art, and staying active. He grew up in Illinois and he currently lives in the Chicagoland area. His practice specializes in the following areas: dui/dwi, traffic, criminal, plaintiff evictions, and family law.
Avvo Review
“He's a great person he do a good job! He helps and cares for the citizens. He gets the results you a”
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Lawyers.com Review
“I endorse attorney Wright in the field of criminal defense. Attorney Wright is a competent and caring attorney.”
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Christopher Syregelas

Firm: Law Offices of Christopher C. Syregelas
312 N. May Street , Chicago , Illinois 60607
Practice Areas: 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.
Lawyers.com Review
“I endorse this lawyer. Chris is a fabulous attorney that I have known since law school! Chris is truly one of the kindest and most honest attorneys that I know! Chris has excellent…”
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Chris Brockman

Firm: Law Office of Chris R. Brockman
625 N. Michigan Avenue , Chicago , Illinois 60611
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
While attending school at the University of Dayton School of Law, I focused on gaining as much practical experience as possible.  Clubs and the Law Review sounded nice on paper, but I wanted the practical experience you just cannot get in school.  I initially clerked for a small civil litigation firm.  Later, I worked closely with a solo criminal defense attorney on a variety of cases ranging from traffic violations to rape.  During this time, I learned the fundamentals of being an effective criminal defense advocate.Upon graduating law school, I came back home to Chicago to study for the bar exam.  I quickly inserted myself in the criminal defense arena by joining the Chicago Bar Association’s Criminal Defense Committee as well as the Young Lawyers Section.  At the same time, I was reaching out to every Chicago defense attorney to volunteer my time and learn new skills.  I've had the opportunity to try a variety of cases including a felon in possession of a handgun jury, and a murder jury.Currently, my practice is located in the West Loop of Chicago.  I focus on criminal law, although I take on any case that involves complex litigation.  I love getting in front of a judge or jury.  When I am not practicing, I like to volunteer my time as a mentor to local youth on probation.
Avvo Review
“him to anyone in need of legal service. He was genuine, resourceful, clever, and really cared about”
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Lawyers.com Review
“It was a pleasure to have Chris as opposing counsel on a recent divorce case, both in and out of court. He was a strong advocate for his client, while being practical in terms of s…”
Yelp Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Chicago Trusted Attorneys

Firm: Chicago Trusted Attorneys
444 W Lake St , Chicago , Illinois 60606
Practice Areas: DUI, Criminal Defense, Traffic Ticketing
Yelp Review
“I am writing this review to express my most sincere thanks for the most professional representation. Chicago Trusted Attorneys Team and Attorney Isioma...”
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Google Review
“I researched attorneys in the Chicago area that could handle my case and after several interviews with other law firms, I found Chicago Trusted Attorneys. David Smith took the time…”
— Betsy Muery
Yelp Rating: Rated 4.2 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Driver Defense Team

Firm: Driver Defense Team
53 W Jackson Blvd , Chicago , Illinois 60604
Practice Areas: DUI, Traffic Ticketing, Criminal Defense
Yelp Review
“Once upon a time, I got a couple tickets. I was in the process of moving so I didn't get that little card that you got from the court telling you when your...”
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Google Review
“Gerard Igoe is an exceptional attorney whose expertise is evident in every aspect of his work. He approached my case with a deep understanding of the law, combined with genuine car…”
— Rene Lampos
Yelp Rating: Rated 2.4 out of 5
Google Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Consumer Law Group

Firm: Consumer Law Group
6232 N Pulaski Rd , Chicago , Illinois 60646
Practice Areas: Immigration, Divorce & Family, Criminal Defense
Yelp Review
“Muy buen Servicio quede satisfecha con la atencion de la srita Iris Gabriel.”
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Google Review
“I reached out to consult with someone. I felt off about the situation, I felt as if someone was reading a script. He kept mentioning their google reviews and how great they were et…”
— JM

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.