Criminal Defense Law

Being accused of a crime can be a life-changing experience. A criminal conviction can lead to jail time, hefty fines, loss of reputation, and a permanent criminal record that affects future employment and housing opportunities. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Illinois, the Illinois Balanced and Restorative Justice Project (IBARJI) is here to defend your rights and fight for your freedom.

At IBARJI, we believe in fairness, justice, and due process. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are committed to providing aggressive legal representation while applying the principles of restorative justice to seek the best possible outcome for our clients.

Understanding Criminal Defense Law in Illinois

Criminal defense law focuses on protecting individuals accused of crimes and ensuring their constitutional rights are upheld. In Illinois, criminal offenses are classified as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the crime.

✅ Misdemeanors – Less serious crimes punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines. Examples include DUI, petty theft, disorderly conduct, and minor drug offenses.
✅ Felonies – More serious crimes punishable by more than 1 year in prison and substantial fines. Examples include homicide, aggravated assault, armed robbery, and drug trafficking.

Regardless of the charges you are facing, our legal team will evaluate your case, develop a strong defense strategy, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Our Criminal Defense Law Services

At IBARJI, we provide comprehensive criminal defense services, representing individuals charged with a wide range of crimes. Our legal team investigates every aspect of your case, builds a solid defense, and ensures your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

1. DUI and Traffic Offenses

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Illinois. If convicted, penalties may include:

✅ License suspension or revocation.
✅ Heavy fines and court fees.
✅ Mandatory alcohol education programs.
✅ Possible jail time.

We provide strong DUI defense strategies, including challenging police procedures, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer results to minimize penalties or get charges dismissed.

2. Drug Crimes Defense

Illinois has strict drug laws, and drug-related offenses can result in harsh penalties. Common drug charges include:

✅ Possession of controlled substances (cocaine, heroin, meth, etc.).
✅ Possession of marijuana over the legal limit.
✅ Drug trafficking and distribution.
✅ Prescription drug fraud.

Our legal team examines whether law enforcement violated your rights during searches or arrests and fights to reduce or dismiss charges.

3. Assault and Violent Crimes

If you are facing assault, battery, or other violent crime charges, the consequences can be severe, including long prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. We defend clients accused of:

✅ Simple and aggravated assault.
✅ Domestic violence.
✅ Homicide and manslaughter.
✅ Gun-related crimes.

We develop aggressive defense strategies, such as self-defense claims, lack of evidence, and wrongful accusations, to protect your rights.

4. Theft, Burglary, and Robbery Defense

Theft-related crimes can result in severe penalties, depending on the value of the stolen property and whether violence was involved. Our defense team handles cases involving:

✅ Petty theft (shoplifting, minor property theft).
✅ Grand theft (stolen property over a certain value).
✅ Burglary (breaking and entering with intent to steal or commit a crime).
✅ Armed robbery.

We challenge the evidence, witness testimonies, and police procedures to ensure your rights are not violated.

5. Domestic Violence Defense

False accusations of domestic violence can have devastating consequences, including restraining orders, loss of custody, and jail time. We help clients accused of:

✅ Spousal abuse or intimate partner violence.
✅ Child abuse or neglect.
✅ Violation of restraining orders.

Our attorneys work to uncover false claims, exaggerations, or lack of evidence to defend your case.

6. White-Collar Crimes

White-collar crimes involve fraud, financial misconduct, and deception. These crimes can lead to serious legal consequences, including federal charges. Common white-collar crimes include:

✅ Embezzlement and financial fraud.
✅ Identity theft and cybercrimes.
✅ Bribery and corruption.
✅ Tax evasion and money laundering.

We provide strategic defense solutions to protect your reputation and minimize penalties.

7. Expungements and Record Sealing

A criminal record can impact employment, housing, and educational opportunities. If you qualify, we help with:

✅ Expungement – Removing criminal charges from your record.
✅ Record Sealing – Restricting access to past convictions.

We guide clients through the Illinois expungement process, helping them move forward with a clean slate.

How IBARJI Can Help with Your Criminal Case

When facing criminal charges, having an experienced defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our legal team:

✅ Conducts a thorough investigation to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case.
✅ Challenges illegally obtained evidence and improper police procedures.
✅ Negotiates plea deals to reduce charges when appropriate.
✅ Represents clients in court to fight for dismissals, acquittals, or reduced sentences.

We are committed to aggressive and strategic defense representation for every client.

Your Rights in a Criminal Case

If you have been arrested, you have constitutional rights that must be protected:

✅ Right to Remain Silent – You are not required to speak to the police.
✅ Right to an Attorney – You can request a lawyer before answering questions.
✅ Right to a Fair Trial – You are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
✅ Right to Confront Witnesses – You can challenge evidence and cross-examine witnesses.

If your rights were violated at any stage of the legal process, we will use this to fight for case dismissal.

Why Choose IBARJI for Criminal Defense?

At IBARJI, we provide skilled, aggressive, and compassionate legal defense. Clients trust us because:

✅ Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys – Decades of experience handling Illinois criminal cases.
✅ Restorative Justice Approach – We seek fair solutions while protecting your rights.
✅ Personalized Defense Strategies – Every case is unique, and we tailor our defense approach to your situation.
✅ Strong Negotiation & Trial Skills – We fight for dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges.
✅ Affordable Legal Fees – We offer flexible payment plans for our clients.

Our priority is protecting your future and your freedom.

Contact IBARJI for Criminal Defense Legal Assistance

If you are facing criminal charges, don’t wait to get legal help. A strong defense strategy can mean the difference between freedom and conviction. Contact IBARJI today for a free case evaluation.

📞 Call Us Today: +1 412-581-6739
📧 Email Us: info@ibarji.org

Let us fight for your rights, your future, and your freedom. Schedule a consultation today!