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Criminal Defense Our Powerhouse Team is Firmly Devoted to
Protecting the Rights of Our Clients

Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyers

Choose Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorneys to Fight for You

The Toney Law Firm, LLC provides effective legal defense for clients charged with criminal offenses. Consequences for a criminal conviction can be life-changing because an offender may have difficulty finding employment, family and friends might disassociate, and you can lose a child custody award following a divorce. A convicted individual may be unable to hold certain professional licenses or maintain a job that requires security clearance.

A strong defense is necessary when an individual faces criminal charges. Why choose The Toney Law Firm, LLC?

  • After an arrest for the alleged commission of a crime, you need powerful legal counsel.
  • Before speaking with authorities and making possibly incriminating statements, you should have an attorney who can guide your decisions.
  • The Toney Law Firm, LLC defends all types of criminal cases.
  • Sarah Toney offers competent legal services based on years of experience. She is recognized as both a professor and an attorney.
  • The firm handles many cases successfully both inside and outside of the courtroom.

If you have been arrested, or if a loved one has been charged with a criminal offense in Chicago, call (888) 473-4058 or contact us online now. 

Criminal Defense FAQ's

Get your questions answered.

Types of Crimes We Defend in Chicago

Our firm provides aggressive defense across a wide range of criminal charges in Cook County, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. We have the trial experience to handle complex litigation in all of the following areas:

Common Penalties in Chicago Criminal Cases

The severity of the penalties for criminal charges in Chicago depend on many factors, including the specific offense, any history of prior convictions, and circumstances such as the involvement of a weapon or injury to another person. 

The Illinois Criminal Code classifies offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, with misdemeanors usually involving shorter jail terms or probation. Felonies bring more serious consequences, such as long prison terms and hefty fines, especially when aggravating circumstances exist.

All criminal charges are serious, and the penalties can include the following:

  • Imprisonment and probation
  • Fines and costs
  • Court-mandated counseling and programs

Some convictions have collateral consequences outside of court. These impacts include loss of voting rights (for some felonies), exclusion from public housing, or restrictions on certain jobs and state-issued professional licenses. Some court orders require participation in counseling programs, community service, or restitution to victims. 

The law allows judges some discretion when sentencing. Our attorneys explain possible outcomes to each client based on their situation, offering the specifics you need to navigate Chicago’s court system.

The Criminal Case Process in Cook County

Navigating a criminal charge in Chicago begins with the arrest and booking, usually at a Chicago Police Department or Cook County facility. After booking, the accused will appear before a judge at the Cook County Central Bond Court, where the judge sets bail or conditions for release. 

Courts in Arlington Heights, Skokie, and other suburbs may handle cases, depending on where the alleged offense occurred. Early in the process, decisions about pretrial release, bond hearings, and bail terms can have a major impact on a person’s immediate future and defense plan.

Following arraignment, the process moves into pretrial motions, discovery, and, if not resolved, trial before a judge or jury. Local prosecutors from the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office handle the case and present evidence as required under Illinois law. 

Our team follows these local procedures to protect each client’s rights at every step—emphasizing frequent communication so clients know what to expect from every hearing, deadline, and negotiation.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

    "She was 100% honest with me the whole time"

    Has the best communication skills for a lawyer I have ever seen, she actually works on your case and researches the case law and shows you literature, she's on time for courts and most of all, she was 100% honest with me the whole time.

    Former client
    "Outstanding job!"

    I must say that not only did she do an outstanding job at handling all of the issues surrounding my case, she also educated me during the process and made sure to keep an open line of communication with me! 

    Former client
    "Impressive Attorney!"

    She's a well rounded, smart and impressive attorney!  

    Former client
    "Professional and Compassionate!"

    Her professional and compassionate approach assured me that I was not just a paying opportunity. 

    Former client
    "A great listener!"

    I was loaded with questions to which she listened and thoroughly answered each. 

    Former client
    "Extremely satisfied"

    Rest easy knowing that she was on my side. My wife I were extremely satisfied with the outcome and will turn to her for any future legal needs

    Former client
    "I am happy with the outcome"

    She handled my issues professionally, gave me good advice, and I am quite happy with the outcome

    Former client
    "Satisfied!"

    If it wasn’t for her and her plan, I'd be in jail, away from my kids.

    Former client

    How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help

    Our firm defends individuals across Chicago facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies. We handle violent crimes such as murder, aggravated assault, armed robbery, and domestic violence, providing strong defense strategies that challenge evidence, witness credibility, and the prosecution’s narrative. Each case demands careful preparation to protect our clients’ rights and freedom.

    We also represent clients accused of drug and weapons offenses, including felony drug trafficking and unlawful firearm possession. These charges often stem from complex investigations and can carry mandatory prison terms. Our team scrutinizes every detail—search warrants, police procedures, and constitutional issues—to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and pursue dismissals or reductions whenever possible.

    In addition, we defend against DUI, reckless homicide, and traffic-related felonies that can destroy careers and futures. Our experience extends to theft, fraud, and white-collar crimes, as well as post-conviction issues like probation violations and expungement. No matter the charge, we provide dedicated, results-driven representation to ensure every client receives a fair and aggressive defense in Cook County courts.

    Our Comprehensive Defense Strategy

    We don't rely on simple luck; we rely on preparation, strategy, and superior knowledge of criminal procedure. Our firm builds a defense tailored to the precise facts and charges you are facing.

    Our defense strategies often focus on challenging the following common points of prosecution failure:

    • Constitutional Violations: We file motions to suppress evidence stemming from an illegal traffic stop, an unlawful search of your vehicle or home, or a violation of your Miranda rights regarding statements made in custody.
    • Eyewitness Credibility and Bias: Eyewitness testimony is often faulty. We use cross-examination to expose inconsistencies, poor identification procedures, and any underlying bias or motive a witness may have for falsely identifying the accused.
    • Forensic and Technical Evidence: In cases involving DNA, ballistics, or drug residue, we challenge the chain of custody, the accuracy of lab equipment, and the interpretation of the results by State experts. We consult independent experts to offer alternative conclusions.
    • Alibi and Mistaken Identity: We launch immediate investigations to gather video evidence, secure third-party witnesses, and gather timestamped documentation that proves you were elsewhere when the alleged crime occurred.
    • Lack of Intent: For crimes like theft, burglary, or fraud, we focus on proving that you lacked the requisite intent to commit the crime, which is necessary for a conviction.

    Why Choose The Toney Law Firm, LLC

    When your freedom is the charge, your choice of defense counsel is the verdict. The Toney Law Firm, LLC offers comprehensive legal services designed to protect you at all costs.

    • 24/7 Accessibility: Criminal issues don't adhere to business hours. We are available around the clock to provide immediate counsel and intervention during the critical moments following an arrest.
    • Bilingual Services: We proudly offer dedicated bilingual services to ensure that language is never a barrier to understanding your rights or accessing our high-caliber defense.
    • Free Consultations: We offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your case and understand your defense options with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Chicago without financial obligation.

    Make an appointment with our Chicago criminal defense lawyer today for a consultation regarding criminal charges. Call (888) 473-4058 or schedule a FREE consultation online.

    DUI Defense FAQ

    Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 888-473-4058 today!

    • What courthouses do you work in?
      We are based out of Cook County, in downtown Chicago. We cover all of the Chicago misdemeanor, felony and branch courthouses, including Daley Center. We also cover many other counties in Illinois including DuPage County, Kane County, Will County, Lake County and McHenry County. For more details on where we serve and details about each county, please visit here.
    • What do I do if police or investigators want to question me?
      If law enforcement agents, investigators or even prosecuting attorneys ask you questions, or request that you provide a statement about the circumstances of the alleged crime, it is extremely important that you only provide information with your attorney present. Even if you believe that what you have to say will declare your innocence, in many instances, information you give could wind up damaging your case. As the Miranda Rights and the Fifth Amendment state, you have the right to remain silent and you have the right to an attorney. A lawyer from our firm can protect your rights from the very moment of your arrest.
    • The police want me to sign a consent to search — should I do it?
      Absolutely not. Don't sign away your right against unlawful searches / seizures. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible to further protect yourself.
    • What is a misdemeanor / felony and what are the differences?
      A misdemeanor charge is a "lesser" charge, and is punishable by less than one year in jail. A felony charge is a greater charge and could result in a lengthier sentence with a minimum of one year in jail.
    • If I am innocent of the crime I am being charged with, do I still need representation?
      Yes. You will need to prove your innocence in a criminal legal matter, and legal representation can greatly increase your chances of properly conveying the true facts.
    • How soon should I hire a lawyer?
      The faster you get in touch with an attorney, the better your chances of a positive result. While you do have the right to represent yourself, you will be facing an experienced and knowledgeable prosecuting attorney representing the state or federal government. With your future on the line, it's foolish to take your representation lightly. You owe it to yourself and to your reputation to ensure that the strongest possible defense team is on your side.
    • Can I hire any lawyer for my criminal legal matter?
      No, there are several different areas of law and not all attorneys practice criminal defense. Those who do specialize in this area may not represent clients in both state and federal level courts. It is important to hire a legal representative that: Has extensive experience in a wide range of criminal legal situations, has extensive trial and litigation experience, can handle state and federal charges, has a proven ability to successfully defend clients in and out of the courtroom, stays up to date and educated on changes to statutes that can affect the rights of Chicago citizens.
    • What types of legal matters can a defense attorney help me with?
      An attorney from The Toney Law Firm, LLC is prepared to aggressively and effectively defend you in cases such as theft crimes, drug crimes, federal crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, murder/manslaughter, juvenile crimes and burglary/robbery. Our firm is dedicated to protecting the legal rights and interests of clients and aiming to win every case that is possible to be won.
    • Can a criminal defense lawyer guarantee a favorable result?
      There is no way that a criminal defense lawyer can ever guarantee a client any type of result, as this would be unethical. With that said, however, our firm can ensure that dedication and vigorous representation will be provided to all clients in need of assistance for any type of criminal legal matter.

    Case Results

    Always Pursuing the Best Possible Outcome
    • Acquitted DUI
    • Not Guilty Battery
    • Not Guilty Two Counts of Resisting Arrest
    • Not Guilty Felony DUI
    • Not Guilty Domestic Battery
    • Not Guilty Battery

    Get Started On Your DUI or Criminal Defense Today

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