Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC
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Chicago Criminal Defense Attorneys

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Looking for a Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer? Results Matter

Since 1990, Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC has successfully represented more than 20,000 satisfied clients in Chicago, Cook County, and other counties across Illinois. The Chicago criminal defense attorney team has represented people like you for over three decades. We strive everyday to obtain superior results and give 100% effort to each case.

You may have been arrested, ticketed, or charged with a crime and facing any number of accusations ranging from driving while under the influence to assault with a deadly weapon. If this is the first time that you've been involved with the police or the Illinois legal system, you're likely wondering what comes next. For those who have had previous encounters with law enforcement officials, you may already have a good idea of what comes next. But regardless of your experience in these matters, it's expected to be worried about what this might mean for you, your family, and your future.

Depending upon your criminal history and circumstances surrounding your arrest or ticket, you may be looking at a wide range of potential personal and legal troubles. So, it's OK to be nervous. But right now, the most important thing that you can do is to remain calm and keep in mind that help is only a phone call away.

No matter what the state accused you of, our experienced attorneys are here to preserve your rights.

It's been said that the best defense is a superior offense. That means the sooner you contact our law offices and speak with a criminal defense lawyer, the greater your odds of avoiding serious difficulties.

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30 +

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20000 +

PeopleHelped

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2126 W Van Buren St. Chicago, IL 60612

Mitchell S. Sexner - Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in CHicago

Our firm law office’s founder, Attorney Mitchell S. Sexner, is highly regarded in the Illinois legal community and holds an “AV Preeminent” rating from the nearly 150-year-old nationwide legal rating service Martindale-Hubbell. He has been recognized by “Who’s Who” in American Law, named to The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Attorneys, and has secured admission to the U.S. District Courts in Illinois, Hawaii, Texas, and Wisconsin. Mr. Sexner has also appeared on television as a legal commentator.

Before founding his firm in 1990, Mr. Sexner aggressively prosecuted criminal cases in Chicago as an Assistant State’s Attorney. He now leads the law office at Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC. He remains dedicated to providing his clients with the highest levels of effective legal representation during every step of the legal process. Whether vigorously defending clients charged with misdemeanor and felony crimes at a criminal trial or fighting insurance companies on behalf of injured families, he and his team of legal professionals leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice.

Our Success Stories

Fist Not Guilty

Aggravated Assault

Despite multiple witnesses testifying our client had pulled a knife on a family member, we were able to convince the Judge to find our client not guilty.

Indecency Icon Reduced Charge

Felony Public Indecency

Registered sex offender previously faced mandatory lifetime registration if convicted. The prosecutor agreed to reduce the felony charge to a misdemeanor.

cannabis Icon Dismissed

Felony Cannabis Possession

Our client was arrested for a felony amount of cannabis. We filed a motion to suppress and quash the arrest and successfully won the case.

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Avvo Client Choice Award
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Rue Ratings Best Attorneys of America
Client Champion Gold 2022
The National Top 100 Trial Lawyers
AV Preeminent Rated Lawyers
Avvo Rating 10.0 Logo
National Association of Distinguished Counsel
BBB Accredited Business
Best Business of 2024 Three Best Rated
10 Best Attorney Ameerica Institute of Legal Counsel
Expertise Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Chicago
Top 10 Attorney and Practice Magazines
American Insittute of Criminal Law Attorneys

Types Of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle

The Criminal defense legal team at Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC represents those charged with a wide variety of criminal offenses ranging from misdemeanors such as retail theft to the most serious of felony cases, including murder. Since 1990, our experienced attorneys have successfully defended virtually every type of offense while representing clients in Chicago and across the state, including those charged with:

Aggravated Speeding

Aggravated speeding is defined as exceeding the speed limit by 26 mph or more and may be charged as a Class A or Class B misdemeanor criminal charge in Illinois. Convictions for aggravated speeding may also result in significant fines, imprisonment, and, depending on the person’s driving record, the possible suspension or revocation of their driver's license.

DUI

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal offense in Illinois and may result in significant fines, imprisonment, and/or the loss of driving privileges. Although typically charged as a misdemeanor, repeat offenses may result in a felony charge for aggravated DUI with the possibility of even harsher penalties.

Suspended or Revoked Driver's License

Driving with a suspended or revoked license in Illinois may result in fines, jail time, and/or the further loss of driving privileges. A skilled traffic attorney will also explore the source of the client’s suspension or revocation to help them regain their ability to drive and thereby lessen the court’s potential penalties.

License Reinstatement

Reinstating a suspended or revoked driver's license in Illinois involves appearing in front of the Secretary of State for an informal or formal hearing. An experienced traffic attorney can help individuals navigate the procedure and increase their chances of successfully obtaining a hardship license (RDP) or full reinstatement of privileges.

Traffic Violations

Traffic violations such as speeding, reckless driving, and driving without a license may result in fines, traffic school, community service, or other court-ordered requirements in Illinois. Repeat offenses or serious violations can also sometimes be charged as misdemeanors or even felonies, subjecting the defendant to possible imprisonment and/or the loss of driving privileges in addition to other penalties.

Criminal Damage to Property and Criminal Trespass

Criminal damage to property and criminal trespass involves damaging or entering someone else's property without permission. These offenses can range from misdemeanor to felony level and may result in penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and/or restitution to the property owner for any damages caused.

Retail Theft

Retail theft, also known as shoplifting, is a common criminal offense in Chicago and across Illinois. It occurs when a person takes, carries away, hides, or transfers merchandise from a retail establishment (store) with the intention of keeping or permanently depriving the business of the item. This includes fraudulent returns, under-ringing, and self-checkout crimes.

Theft, Robbery & Burglary

Theft, robbery, and burglary are all criminal charges in Illinois, with different levels of severity and penalties. Theft involves taking someone else's property without permission, while robbery involves using force or the threat of force. Burglary involves entering a building with the intent to commit a crime, while Residential Burglary involves the burglary of a home.

Assault & Battery

Assault and battery are separate crimes in Illinois, with assault being the threat of harm or injury and battery being the actual physical contact. Although these crimes are usually charged as misdemeanors, they may be upgraded to a felony depending upon the severity of the crime, injuries sustained by the victim, and who the victim is (such as a police officer).

Domestic Violence

Domestic battery is a severe crime in Illinois that involves physical harm to a family or household member. In contrast to a regular battery, a domestic battery is not eligible for a supervision sentence. Such charges can sometimes be upgraded to a felony and may result in significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping involves the unlawful taking or confinement of another person and is closely related to such crimes as forcible detention and unlawful restraint. A kidnapping can occur whenever someone is hidden or taken without their agreement or consent, and the law does not require the use of force. Crimes involving children or those with a disability carry higher penalties.

Drug Crimes and Controlled Substances

Drug crimes in Illinois can range from a misdemeanor involving possession of a small amount of marijuana to a serious felony related to large-scale trafficking of controlled substances such as cocaine and heroin. Although some cases carry long potential penitentiary terms, others may be eligible for alternative prosecution programs that may ultimately result in a full dismissal.

Marijuana Possession

Possession of marijuana is now legal in Illinois, but recent changes to state law still strictly regulate the possession, growth and sale of cannabis. Possession of larger quantities or distribution of marijuana can still result in criminal charges and penalties, with some criminal charges carrying penalties of up to 15 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.

Pre-Trial Release Violations

Cash bail has been replaced in Illinois by “Pre-trial Release”. For some crimes, the Defendant is brought before a Judge who determines whether they should be held in custody or released with conditions on a “Conditions of Pre-trial Release Order”. If someone then violates this Order, they may be brought back before the Judge who may choose to hold them in custody instead.

Expungement

Expungement is the process of erasing a criminal record. It can be filed by individuals who have been acquitted, released without charge, or completed a sentence for an offense that resulted in supervision. Expungement can provide individuals with greater opportunities for employment, housing, and other life-long benefits.

Crimes By a Minor

Crimes committed by minors in Illinois are handled in juvenile court, which focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. In some circumstances, a juvenile may be placed into custodial detention. Depending on their age, serious offenses may sometimes result in the minor being tried as an adult, leading to harsher penalties and possible jail time.

Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is a broad charge that encompasses a wide variety of behaviors, including filing a false police report, interfering with a funeral, pointing a laser pointer at police, and many other situations that provoke a breach of the peace. Penalties for disorderly conduct may include fines, community service, and/or potential jail time.

Guns & Weapons

Illinois has strict laws regarding possessing, using, and transporting firearms and other weapons. Violations of these laws may result in a criminal conviction and significant other penalties, including imprisonment and the loss of certain rights and privileges, especially for defendants without a valid FOID or a Concealed Carry Permit.

Harassment

Harassment involves a pattern of behavior intended to intimidate, annoy, or alarm another person. Depending upon the severity of the behavior and the impact on the victim, harassment may result in misdemeanor or felony charges. Harassment may occur in person, by phone, or by electronic means such as text or social media.

Identity Theft

Identity theft involves using someone else's personal information (such as social security number or name) for financial gain or other purposes, including applying for a loan, buying items, or opening a fraudulent bank account. When this theft involves a crime against someone over age 60, it may be charged as a felony with even more significant potential penalties.

Petty Offenses, Misdemeanors, & Felonies

Petty offenses, misdemeanors, and felonies are all considered criminal charges in Illinois, although each classification involves different levels of severity and penalties. Petty offenses are the least serious and generally carry no potential for jail time, while felonies are the most serious and carry potential penalties of at least a year in the penitentiary.

Resisting & Obstruction

Resisting arrest or obstructing a police officer in performing their duties is usually charged as a misdemeanor in Illinois. A person resists the police when they refuse to submit to arrest peacefully or without a struggle. Obstruction refers to a situation in which the defendant is accused of interfering with an officer’s investigation or arrest procedure.

Sex Crimes

Sex offenses in Illinois can range from misdemeanor charges such as indecent exposure to felony charges such as aggravated criminal sexual abuse or predatory criminal sexual assault. A criminal conviction for a sex offense may result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and the requirement to register as a sex offender for a period of either 10 years or for life.

Solicitation & Prostitution

Solicitation and prostitution are both criminal offenses in Illinois, with penalties that may include fines and imprisonment. Prostitution is offering and agreeing to perform any sexual act in exchange for anything of value. In contrast, solicitation involves soliciting or asking another to perform such an act in exchange for money or something of value.


These are just a few of the many criminal and traffic cases we handle, so don't hesitate to call us today. Our experienced and knowledgeable team of criminal defense lawyers in Chicago can help you protect your rights. Your consultation is always free. Call us now at (312) 644-0444.

Our Chicago Criminal Defense Law Firm Gets Results

Thousands of highly satisfied criminal and traffic clients in the Chicago area have been helped by the experienced attorneys of Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC. How has our law firm consistently achieved successful client results since 1990?

Straight Talk

Starting with your first free consultation, our attorneys will give it to you straight. Things look good? We'll tell you. Do things look not so good? We're going to tell you that, too. So, if you're looking for a lawyer to tell you what you want to hear, please look elsewhere! Our attorneys only want the best for our clients, and we've found that to accomplish that, we need our clients to be true partners in this process and proceed with eyes wide open. After more than 30 years in business, our legal team knows what needs to be done to get you where you need to be. So come to us with your questions, and we'll gladly give you the answers you need to succeed.

Team Effort

When facing traffic charges in the Chicago area, it's important to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side, but at Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC, we take that idea one step even further. Whether your offense is a minor driving ticket or a major felony charge, we consider every case serious because every case is important to you and your future. So, once you've chosen to hire us, your file will be immediately assigned to one of our knowledgeable lawyers with many years of experience. Then, your attorney will work closely with Mr. Sexner and our other highly qualified attorneys to provide you with the highest service levels and help you navigate the criminal justice system. Our focus on team effort is just one of the things that separates us from the rest.

Hard Work

Our attorneys know that nothing beats hard work. So, to obtain the very best outcome for our clients, the legal team at Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC works hard in between court dates as well as when at court. We'll review all the police reports, videos, photographs, and available evidence. We may travel to view the crime scene location in the Chicago area, contact potential witnesses, or engage in ongoing negotiations with the prosecutor. Your attorney may conduct legal research on your case, draft motions, and have them filed with the court. We'll constantly contact you to ensure you're updated on essential case developments. We'll do what it takes to bring you the best results possible.

Why Should You Hire Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC?

It's a fair question. After all, plenty of attorneys are willing to represent you. You may have already received a mailbox full of letters from lawyers. Or your Uncle's cousin says he knows someone. Or you've done a quick Google search on the internet and found what appear to be hundreds of qualified lawyers in your area. How do you decide?

First, understand that any lawyer can call themselves an “experienced criminal defense attorney,” even those with little to no relevant history. Whether the lawyer is a recent law school graduate or primarily handles other types of cases, there's no law against claiming to be something you're not. So, if your case is important to you and you're looking to find the best representation, allow us to explain why the legal team at Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC is “the real deal”:

  • Members of our legal team include only former prosecutors and life-long defense attorneys who have spent their careers handling traffic & criminal cases
  • Our lawyers have over 30 years of experience and have handled thousands of criminal & traffic cases on average
  • Each attorney has a proven track record of successful results, including winning trial verdicts in Chicago and multiple Illinois counties
  • Superior levels of understanding, compassion, and dedication are given to each case
  • Numerous awards for excellence and customer service have been received since the first of our offices opened in 1990
  • Competitive flat fees with flexible, reasonable payment plans are often available
  • Open lines of communication and weekly status phone calls
  • Over 20,000 highly satisfied clients from 44 States across America
  • Over 800 5-Star reviews online at Google

For over 30 years, Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC has helped clients successfully navigate the court system in Chicago and surrounding areas. Call now for straight talk about your case and to speak with one of our knowledgeable attorneys free of charge. You can reach our live hotline 24 hours a day at (312) 644-0444

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer

The cost of hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Chicago can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the attorney's experience and reputation, and the amount of time and effort required to mount a strong defense. Some criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee, while others charge by the hour. It's important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your attorney before hiring them to ensure that you are comfortable with the costs and that there are no surprises down the road. It's also always important to make sure that the attorney you hire has a written contract setting out these fees and that you receive a copy of it for your records.

A good Chicago criminal defense lawyer should have extensive experience in criminal law, including a thorough understanding of the laws of Illinois as they relate to criminal charges and the justice system. They should also have strong communication and negotiation skills and the ability to develop effective defense strategies while they work collaboratively with clients. Good Chicago criminal lawyers are also ethical and professional, committed to providing high-quality legal representation to those they defend.

Finding the best Chicago criminal lawyer can be a daunting task, but there are several steps you can take to find the right criminal attorney for your case. First, start by looking online and reading reviews that other actual clients have written, such as those found in Google reviews, AVVO, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Note whether the attorney has been awarded or rated by well-respected services such as Super Lawyers or The National Trial Lawyers. You can also ask friends, family members, or colleagues for referrals to get a sense of their approach and expertise before making a decision. Lastly, hiring a lawyer who is a legal team member (rather than a lawyer who practices by themselves) is often a wise decision as well, as it allows your lawyer to consult with other experienced attorneys when crafting the best defense for you.

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer typically begins with an initial consultation, during which you will discuss your case and legal options with the attorney. This initial consultation is usually free. A good lawyer will answer any questions and ask pertinent questions to gain a proper understanding of your case during this meeting. If you decide to hire the lawyer, you will then sign an attorney agreement to determine how the fees will be paid and if a payment plan is available. From there, your Chicago criminal lawyer will work with you to develop a strong defense strategy, begin negotiations with the prosecutor, appear in court on all required dates, and later represent you at a trial if necessary.

When looking for a Chicago criminal defense attorney, it's crucial to find someone with experience in your type of case. Look for a lawyer with a track record of success in similar cases, who can communicate effectively with you about your case, and preferably an attorney who works as part of a legal team. It's also essential to find a lawyer who is responsive, accessible, and willing to work with you to develop a strong defense strategy.

Frequently asked questions

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