Illinois Attorney Defends Clients Facing Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon Charges

Bridgeview lawyer handles cases involving weapon charges

A conviction for a weapons charge can have severe consequences, including time behind bars and expensive fines. At Skinner Law Firm, P.C. in Bridgeview, we will vigorously defend you when you have been arrested on an aggravated unlawful use of a weapon charge or another type of weapons-related accusation. Attorney Steven Skinner is passionate about upholding the rights of individuals within the criminal justice system.  

Elements of an aggravated unlawful use of a weapon offense

If you carry a loaded firearm, or an unloaded one with readily accessible ammunition, in a public place or on another person’s property without their permission, you can be charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon or AUUW. An AUUW is a serious felony charge. When you are facing weapons charges, we will assess the facts of your case to develop a strategy aimed at securing the best possible outcome. 

Potential penalties and consequences of an AUUW charge

An aggravated unlawful use of a weapon charge is generally classified as a Class 4 felony in Illinois. However, it can be elevated to a Class 2 felony depending on the specific circumstances, such as if you have prior weapons convictions or possessed the weapon in a protected zone. Penalties following a conviction may include:

• One to three years in prison for a Class 4 felony
• Three to seven years in prison for a Class 2 felony 

You may also have to pay a fine of up to $25,000 and would have a criminal record. In some cases, first-time, non-violent offenders may be given probation rather than prison time.  

What constitutes this crime in Illinois? 

There are various reasons you could be charged with AUUW in Illinois. They include: 

• Carrying a loaded firearm without a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification Card (FOID) or concealed carry license

• Possessing a loaded firearm (or unloaded firearm with easily accessible ammunition) in a protected location such as a public park, school or government building

• Having a weapon when arrested for drug possession 
• Possessing the weapon with an order of protection against you within the previous two years

• Being under 21 years old and in possession of a handgun

• Improperly transporting the weapon

• Possessing the weapon while intending to commit a crime

Whatever the reason you were arrested for AUUW, we will work to have your charges dismissed or reduced. 

Attorneys crafting a tailored defense for your unique case 

We will develop a defense strategy based on your particular circumstances, that might include the following specific defenses. 

• The weapon was broken down and in a non-functioning state

• The weapon was not immediately accessible

• The weapon was unloaded and enclosed in a container or box by someone with a valid FOID

• There was no probable cause for police to stop and search you 
• It is a case of mistaken identity, which suggests the weapon belonged to someone else and you had no knowledge of it or intent to possess it
• You possessed the weapon for self-defense purposes
• The witnesses testifying against you are unreliable

We will conduct a thorough investigation of the evidence against you in order to build the strongest possible defense. 

Contact an effective defense attorney when you are charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon

Skinner Law Firm, P.C. in Bridgeview builds powerful defenses for individuals in Illinois charged with serious weapons violations. Call our law firm at 312-635-6459 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation about your case.