Waukegan, IL Violent Crime Defense Lawyer

Skilled Defense Attorney for People Accused of Violent Crimes in Waukegan, Illinois

Violent crimes often come with strict prosecution and stiff penalties due to the perceived danger. Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, carrying the potential for years in prison and a permanent criminal record upon conviction. To protect your rights against accusations of a violent offense, consider reaching out to a criminal defense lawyer.

At Law Office of Theodore S. Potkonjak, we can meet with you early in the criminal proceedings to discuss your case. Our Waukegan, IL violent crime defense attorney can advise you of your options and help you pursue the best possible result, considering all of the available evidence and information in your case.

Violent Crime Cases We Handle

Assault

Assault is one of the most common violent crime charges in Illinois. It occurs when someone knowingly acts in a way that causes another person to fear imminent bodily harm. No physical contact is required for an assault charge—threatening acts or gestures can be enough if they create a reasonable belief that harm is about to occur.

Aggravated assault can be charged when a weapon is involved, when the alleged victim is a police officer, or when the act happens in a public place. Since these cases often rely on the accuser's perception of fear rather than physical evidence, there is significant room for misunderstanding, potentially allowing for a defense based on lack of intent. A defense attorney can examine witness statements, video footage, and the surrounding circumstances to show that the alleged threat was exaggerated or never occurred.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges can arise from conflicts between spouses, dating partners, family members, or anyone who shares a home or intimate relationship. The most common form is domestic battery, which refers to intentionally causing bodily harm or making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature. Even a minor argument can lead to an arrest if police believe a physical act took place.

Convictions can lead to long-lasting consequences, including loss of firearm rights and damage to family relationships. Defending against these accusations often requires careful review of witness credibility, medical evidence, and motive.

Robbery

Robbery involves taking property from another person through the use or threat of force. It is considered both a property crime and a violent crime because it places the victim in direct fear of harm. Unlike theft, robbery requires personal confrontation, like snatching a purse while threatening to hit someone. If the aggressor displays a weapon or even implies they have one, the charge can escalate to aggravated or armed robbery.

In any robbery case, intent is a key factor. The prosecution must prove that the accused knowingly used force to take property. A defense lawyer may challenge that intent, argue misidentification, or show that no threat or violence occurred.

Homicide

Homicide encompasses several types of unlawful killings, including murder, manslaughter, and reckless homicide. The charges differ based on intent, circumstances, and state of mind. Murder involves intentional or knowing acts that cause death, while involuntary manslaughter and reckless homicide involve deaths caused by severe negligence. Every homicide case requires a thorough examination of evidence, witness accounts, and forensic reports to determine what truly happened and whether the accused's actions met the legal standard for a criminal offense.

Is Self-Defense Applicable in Violent Crime Cases?

Illinois law recognizes a person's right to defend themselves or others if they reasonably believe force is necessary to prevent harm. Self-defense may justify the use of physical force when someone faces an imminent threat. The courts will scrutinize whether the response was reasonable under the circumstances. A defense attorney can demonstrate that the accused acted out of fear or necessity rather than aggression, helping to reduce or dismiss the charges entirely.

Contact a Waukegan, IL Violent Crime Defense Attorney

At Law Office of Theodore S. Potkonjak, we can help you challenge accusations of violent crimes, whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony. To set up a free consultation today, contact our Waukegan violent crime defense lawyer or call 847-263-1200. Beyond Waukegan, we represent clients in Lake County, McHenry County, Cook County, and DuPage County. We also have an office in Antioch for residents of western Lake County.