Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in chicago | 265 available

265 Criminal Defense lawyers are available in chicago, Illinois, including Blaire Dalton, Bonnie Varner Attorneys at Law, Bradford Lyerla, and Brian E. King. These lawyers are rated between 3.6/5 to 4.0/5 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.

Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5

Blaire Dalton

Firm: Dalton Law, LLC
53 W. Jackson Blvd. , Chicago , Illinois 60604
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Blaire Dalton is the leading lawyer at the Chicago criminal defense firm, Dalton Law, LLC. Dalton is known to be compassionate and dedicated to her clients, while also aggressive and creative in the courtroom.. Attorney Dalton was selected as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers in 2016; recognition that only 2.5% of practicing lawyers aged 40 years or younger have received. She is also nationally ranked as one of the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in Illinois by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys.
Avvo Review
“Amazing attorney with successful results and great communication skills with clients. She works hard”
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Lawyers.com Review
“As a law student, I had the opportunity to work for Blaire. I saw firsthand her vigorously fight for her clients with unrelenting dedication. Ms. Dalton is an outstanding lawyer wh…”
Avvo Rating: Rated 3.3 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 5.0 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

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

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

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

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 2.0 out of 5

Bonnie Varner Attorneys at Law

Firm: Bonnie Varner Attorneys at Law
22 W Washington , Chicago , Illinois 60602
Practice Areas: Tenant and Eviction, Criminal Defense, Real Estate
Yelp Review
“Thank goodness for Tenant Protectors. They helped me out tremendously. I was dealing with a SLUMLORD who was evicting me who said I owed way more than I...”
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Google Review
“This attorney represented, or pretended to represent, a neighbor and attempted to intimidate myself and my neighbors for her alleged client’s repeated radiator leaks which repeated…”
— Justin Greer
Yelp Rating: Rated 5.0 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 1.0 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 2.0 out of 5

Bryant Chavez

Firm: Bryant Chavez Law Office, LLC
1055 W. Bryn Mawr Ave , Chicago , Illinois 60660
Practice Areas: Expungement, Criminal Defense, General Practice, Estate Planning, Trusts, Wills
Avvo Review
“ny sense to refuse the documents. Called directly to the court house and there was a big bold note t”
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Lawyers.com Review
“I send clients to Attorney Bryant Chavez when they need expert advice on expungements, sealing of records, and related matters. Mr. Chavez is a well-respected attorney among his co…”
Google Review
“He's a SCAM!!! I would give him -100 stars if I could. This guys is a nothing but a fraud. I …”
— Kon Kruglyak
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5

Brian Freiman

Firm: Freiman Law
2260 N Elston Ave , Chicago , Illinois 60614
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Avvo Review
“I had hired Mr. Freiman for a dui case. I was offered many offers but Brian didn't stop fighting for”
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Lawyers.com Review
“I highly recommend this attorney. He is an excellent and attentive counsel for criminal defense and DUI law. I have discussed criminal cases with him and he is knowledgeable of the…”
Avvo Rating: Rated 4.0 out of 5

Brian E. King

Firm: Drunken Driving Defense Lawyers of Illinois, Ltd.
One North La Salle Street 4200  6 , Chicago , Illinois 60602
Practice Areas: Appellate ,Criminal Defense ,DUI/DWI
Avvo Review
“I hired Brian to help me with a custody case and I have to say he worked very hard for me. My case was a bit unique, but he fought hard for my rights...”
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Avvo Rating: Rated 3.3 out of 5

Bradford Lyerla

Firm: Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP
233 South Wacker Drive , Chicago , Illinois 60606
Practice Areas: Civil , Criminal Defense
Avvo Rating: Rated 4.1 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 1.0 out of 5

Carolyn Gurland

Firm: White & Case
111 S Wacker Dr Ste 5100 , Chicago , Illinois 60606
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, General Practice, Litigation, Consumer Protection, Tax
Avvo Review
“She a b**** that thinks women hate her cause she's more beautiful than them . Have a video of her k”
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Avvo Rating: Rated 1.0 out of 5

Burton Brown

Firm: Law Offices of Burton A Brown
205 W Wacker Dr Ste 922 , Chicago , Illinois 60606
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Avvo Review
“Burton will tell you what you want to hear to get your money no matter what the law states. He does”
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Lawyers.com Review
“I endorse this lawyer.”
Avvo Rating: Rated 5.0 out of 5

Christine Farrell

Firm: Cabrini Green Legal Aid Clinic
206 West Division Street , Chicago , Illinois 60610
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Avvo Review
“This woman is amazing. She is honest, upfront about what you will get and wont get. Plays her card”
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Lawyers.com Review
“I endorse this lawyer.I endorse Christine. She is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.”
Yelp Rating: Rated 2.4 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
Yelp Rating: Rated 3.0 out of 5

Criminal Defense Lawyer of Chicago

Firm: Criminal Defense Lawyer of Chicago
53 W Jackson Blvd , Chicago , Illinois 60604
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense
Yelp Review
“Aaron Rosenblatt is easily the greatest attorney I've ever had the pleasure of working with. An easy going intellect with a "yes we can" mentality. He...”
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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.