Criminal Defense

Whether you are under investigation, facing custody following an arrest for alleged criminal activities, or on the verge of a trial, there’s no substitute for experience, advocacy, and legal knowledge. Our criminal defense attorneys at Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD are here to guide you through the often intimidating and unfamiliar legal process. Our experience in criminal law and related areas is matched only by our dedication to our clients. We proudly represent individuals in Schaumburg, throughout Illinois, and beyond.

We understand the gravity of our client’s situation, including the potential for incarceration and a permanent criminal record. The ramifications of receiving an Order of Protection, losing custody of your child, or being targeted by an extortionist or harasser cannot be underestimated. At Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD, our criminal defense lawyers will vigorously pursue your goals within the bounds of the law. Whatever legal issue you confront concerning criminal law, we stand ready to provide you with the counsel you need and deserve.

Domestic Violence

Accusations of domestic violence are taken seriously in Schaumburg and IL. They can have profound effects on your criminal record, as well as your relationships with family members, including child custody matters. While many domestic violence cases involve physical violence, such as assault or strangulation, some encompass behaviors like aggravated harassment or stalking.

Unfortunately, false accusations of domestic violence are not uncommon, often driven by motives related to personal disputes, finances, or relationships. Whether a complainant has exaggerated or misrepresented facts or is telling the truth, our criminal defense lawyers at Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD and our team of highly experienced criminal defense attorneys can help protect your rights against wrongful accusations, potentially leading to reduced, dropped, or dismissed charges.

Theft and Larceny Crimes

In Schaumburg, prosecutors may charge individuals with theft-related crimes when they take or withhold property from its rightful owner. These offenses vary from shoplifting and petit larceny to more complex crimes like embezzlement or extortion. Many theft crimes involve multiple elements, each requiring proof beyond a reasonable doubt. A skilled criminal defense lawyer may challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove intent, showing that the defendant believed they had a right to the property or that the owner had willingly given it to them. Regardless of the nature or amount of the theft arrest, misdemeanors and felonies can be mitigated or reduced with the proper legal representation.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes typically lack physical violence and are often motivated by financial gain. They can be prosecuted under both federal and state laws. Examples include cybercrimes, grand larceny, schemes to defraud, insider trading, identity theft, money laundering, enterprise corruption, and racketeering. Our criminal defense attorneys at Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD  understand the complexities of these charges. Our criminal defense lawyers may be able to demonstrate that you had no intent to commit the crime, were unaware of others committing the offense at your organization, or prove that no criminal enterprise existed. Other potential defenses include challenging the prosecution’s ability to establish all elements of the crime, confirming your innocence, and exploring strategies such as entrapment, claim of right, and mitigation.

Fraud Crimes

Our Schaumburg criminal lawyers frequently represent individuals facing credit card fraud and other consumer fraud charges, as well as forgery and related offenses. Fraud occurs when someone intentionally deceives a victim, gaining an advantage through the victim’s reliance on deception. These cases fall under the umbrella of white collar crimes, often involving similar defenses. Whether you’re charged with forgery, criminal possession of a false instrument, falsifying business records, offering a false instrument for filing, or a similar offense, our criminal defense lawyers will investigate the specifics of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, potentially leading to a dismissal or plea bargain.

Drug Crimes

Arrests for possession, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances can lead to severe penalties, including years in prison and hefty fines. However, you should not assume that you have no options. For instance, we could raise a constitutional defense if your rights were violated during the evidence collection. The Fourth Amendment protects against certain types of searches and seizures. If drugs were seized without a warrant or probable cause, we can seek to suppress the evidence, significantly hampering the prosecution’s ability to prove a drug crime case. Whether the drugs are prescription medications like Adderall or Oxycodone or illegal substances like cocaine or heroin, we’ll explore your options and defenses. Our team of criminal defense attorneys has successfully handled cases ranging from personal use misdemeanors to felonious intent-to-sell charges.

DWI & DWAI

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Schaumburg can result in severe penalties and the loss of your driver’s license. DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges apply when your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08 or higher. DWAI (driving while ability impaired) is a related violation for a BAC of 0.07 or lower. While DWI is a criminal offense, DWAI is a traffic infraction. In some cases, individuals arrested for DWI with a lower BAC may be able to plead down to DWAI with reduced penalties. Our Schaumburg criminal defense attorneys can assist you in formulating a strategy to combat drunk driving charges. This may involve challenging the basis for the traffic stop or how BAC tests were conducted. Numerous aspects require examination, from Aggravated DWI and Leandra’s Law violations to Portable Breath Tests and Ignition Interlock issues when crafting the best defense. Fortunately, many of our clients have avoided criminal records before or after trial.

Sex Crimes

A conviction for a sex crime may require you to register as a sex offender, potentially impacting your reputation and career prospects. The high stakes make it imperative to engage a criminal lawyer who can meticulously investigate the events leading to the charges and work to avoid the consequences of the Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA). Many sex crime cases hinge on the credibility of the accuser and the alleged perpetrator. We can identify inconsistencies in the accuser’s recollection and help present a comprehensive account of events from your perspective and that of your witnesses. Consent may also serve as a valid defense in some instances involving adult interactions. Other sex crimes, such as child pornography or internet-related offenses, may require more complex arguments. Even when a complete dismissal is not possible, we may negotiate favorable plea deals on your behalf.

For experienced and dedicated legal representation by a highly skilled criminal defense lawyer in Schaumburg, Illinois, contact Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD at(847) 944-9400. We are committed to helping you navigate the legal system’s complexities and defend your rights vigorously.

Contact a Schaumburg Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Family Court Orders of Protection

Our skilled legal team of criminal defense attorneys also specializes in helping you secure an Order of Protection or defend against an unjustified Restraining Order issued by a Family Court. A limited or full Order of Protection can provide crucial protection against someone who is harassing you or engaging in misconduct under the Family Court Act. It can be issued on your behalf against individuals you were in a dating relationship with, former spouses, or siblings. A total Stay Away Order prohibits all contact by the subject. At the same time, a limited Order of Protection allows for ordinary and reasonable contact but can lead to criminal charges if harassment, violence, or other prohibited conduct occurs. Our attorneys will assist you in determining the appropriate type of order for your situation, drafting the petition accurately, representing you in court, and effectively resolving this stressful and anxiety-inducing experience.

College Arrests, Disciplinary Hearings, and TITLE IX

College students facing misconduct allegations may encounter a criminal investigation by local authorities and disciplinary hearings or Title IX investigations initiated by their academic institution. Many of these hearings involve incidents related to sexual interactions, gender-based misconduct, and harassment between students. Other cases may involve disciplinary matters, code of conduct violations related to alcohol, drugs, assault, or academic misconduct. Whether you are facing criminal charges or violations of Title IX and university code of conduct rules, the consequences can be severe, and the process may lack the protections afforded by criminal proceedings. Our criminal defense lawyers at Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD have successfully represented many college students whose future was at risk in these hearings and victims of campus misconduct. We understand the importance of preserving your education and career prospects, and we will fight vigorously on your behalf to protect your present and future.

Record Sealing & Conviction (Expunging)

A criminal record can significantly impact your ability to pursue education or secure employment and social standing. While it may not be possible to expunge your criminal record in Schaumburg completely, you can have it sealed, limiting public access. For instance, under Criminal Procedure Law 160.59, experienced counsel may be able to seal convictions for eligible misdemeanors and felonies, provided specific requirements are met, and you are not facing additional charges. Our criminal defense attorneys can draft and file a persuasive petition with the court to seal your record and respond to any challenges the District Attorney poses opposing the sealing.

Immigration

The United States welcomes people worldwide to join their families or explore career opportunities. We recognize the significant contributions immigrants have made to this nation’s strength. Our team of criminal defense lawyers can assist you in seeking legal status in the U.S. and protect that status in case of an arrest or criminal accusation. This may involve obtaining a temporary visa, pursuing a green card, or granting permanent residency in the U.S. If you already reside there and wish to establish deeper roots by pursuing citizenship, we can guide you through the citizenship process. We also understand the potential immigration consequences of an arrest or conviction and will ensure you are informed of these consequences as we defend you against charges.

Regardless of your legal issue, be it criminal accusations, extortion, or navigating the complexities of immigration, our criminal defense lawyers recognize the many challenges you may face. Safeguarding yourself today and in the future is of utmost importance. With your freedom, reputation, career, family, and future at stake, experience, advocacy, and knowledge are irreplaceable. Contact Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD online or at (847) 944-9400 for a free consultation with one of our top-rated criminal defense attorneys. Let us identify the strongest defense or strategy for your unique situation, ensuring you have the best possible chance for a positive outcome.

Other Areas Of Criminal Defense We Offer:

• Battery (Battery against a police officer, Battery against a child, Battery against a spouse, or Battery against an elderly person.)
• Child Abuse and Neglect
• Domestic Battery
• Murder (First-degree murder, Second-degree murder, and Third-degree murder)
• Robbery (Armed Robbery, Strong-Arm Robbery, Carjacking, Home Invasion, and Bank Robbery)
• Sex Crimes ( Rape or aggravated sexual assault, Statutory rape, Sexual battery, Lewd and lascivious offenses,

  Indecency with a child or molestation, Sexual assault of a child, Possession of child pornography, Internet sex crimes, Marital rape, Institutional sexual assault, Indecent exposure and assault, Sexual intercourse with an animal, Forcing a child into prostitution, Sexting, Sexual exploitation of a minor and Incest)

• Theft Crimes
• Vehicular Manslaughter

Speak With a Schaumburg Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Contact Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD at (847) 944-9400 or complete our online contact form below to schedule a free consultation with one of our highly qualified criminal defense lawyers today.

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