Tough Defense For Unlawful Use Of A Weapon Charges
Under Illinois law, the unlawful use of a weapon (UUW) can be a felony offense under certain circumstances. These charges can have long-lasting repercussions. The team at Shifrin Law Group in Chicago is experienced in these cases and can provide a strategic defense to protect your future.
Understanding The Different Classes Of Charges And Penalties
A UUW is a Class 4 felony offense, punishable by one to three years in prison and/or a maximum fine of $25,000 if the possession of the firearm occurs in any place that is licensed to sell intoxicating beverages or at a public gathering “held pursuant to a license issued by any governmental body or any public gathering at which an admission is charged.” 720 ILCS 5/24(a)(8). A UUW can also be a Class 4 felony if the person in possession of the firearm is hooded, robed or masked in a manner that conceals their identity. 720 ILCS 5/24(a)(9).
A UUW is a Class 3 felony offense, punishable by two to five years in prison and/or a maximum fine of $25,000 if the person possesses any device or attachment meant to silence the firearm. A UUW can also be a Class 3 felony if a person sells, manufactures, purchases, possesses or carries any rifle that has a barrel less than 16 inches in length; a shotgun that has a barrel less than 18 inches in length; or any weapon made from a rifle or shotgun that is modified to have an overall length of less than 26 inches; or any bomb. 720 ILCS 5/24(a)(7)(ii)-(iii).
A UUW is a Class 2 felony offense, punishable by a minimum of three years in prison and a maximum of seven years in prison and/or a maximum fine of $25,000 if a person sells, manufactures, purchases, possess or carries a machine gun.
A UUW is a Class X Felony offense, a nonprobational offense carrying a mandatory minimum six-year prison sentence if a person possesses a machine gun in the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle or on their person while the weapon is loaded. Our team is prepared to handle any level of offense, from a simple misdemeanor to a complex felony charge.
Take The Next Step To Secure Quality Representation
If you have been charged with the unlawful use of a weapon or another weapon-related crime, get in touch with our skilled and experienced criminal defense team. Call 312-766-4223 or connect with us via our online form. These types of charges can lead to serious penalties. It is important for you to have an attorney who understands the law and defense strategy. Our founding attorney speaks fluent Russian, making us capable of serving you in either English or Russian.
