Chicago has some of the toughest laws on the books regarding guns and other weapons. This means that many gun owners are mistakenly charged with a misdemeanor and even felony crimes when they are simply protecting themselves. We understand this and know that things can get confusing in the big city. The weapons charges attorneys at Okabe & Haushalter have the experience and knowledge to build a defense and help protect your freedom and future. Contact us today for an initial consultation to discuss your case and options.
Known around the nation as having the toughest laws on the books regarding background checks, waiting for periods and gun licensing, Chicago is constantly in the spotlight setting an example for gun reform. Unlike in other places, Chicago bans assault rifles. However, with Wisconsin and Indiana having very lax laws over 60 percent of the guns used in crimes committed by gangs in Chicago have been purchased in these states. Non-gang related crimes accounted for 32 percent of guns being purchased in other states. So regardless of how strict the laws are, the surrounding areas have a major effect on the crime.
Chicago residents may fall victim to weapons charges if they are not aware of all the restrictive laws that can impose on their second amendment rights. Innocent gun owners can be charged with unlawful use of a weapon (UUW). This is typically a misdemeanor but can be upgraded to a felony charge with some mitigating factors. Misdemeanor charges are related to other weapons like switchblades, daggers, razors, brass knuckles and more. Even using a stiletto can be seen as UUW and lead to a misdemeanor. Having a tear gas launcher or setting spring guns are also seen as illegal in Chicago. Having certain weapons on your person inside a government building is also illegal to even with a permit. Explosive bullets can not be sold, bought or manufactured unless you want to face a weapons charge.
Regardless of how strict gun laws are in Chicago, the crime seems to have increased. This shows that even though you can try to restrict guns it is hard to keep criminals from getting their hands on them. Some attribute this to the fact that surrounding states have more lenient gun laws allowing for guns to be trafficked into the city. Among all other states, Illinois ranks 8th for the strictest laws. The reason Chicago is known for high crime is backed by the number of incidents involving gun violence. 2016 saw 781 homicides and 2017 saw over 2,100 cases involving guns. These are scary statistics for most but numbers do not account for population size in comparison to other major cities.
Having such restrictive and constantly changing gun laws can get confusing and land innocent people in jail. This can have long-lasting consequences on your reputation and criminal record. Our Chicago weapons charges attorneys understand the damage these charges can have on your life and will fight tooth and nail to place you in the best position to succeed by either having charges reduced or dropped. We are committed to fighting for you. The first step is to schedule a case evaluation by contacting our offices.