Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer Andrew M. Weisberg – When Gun Charges Carry Harsh Consequences

Gun and weapons charges in Illinois have always been serious, but under new Cook County State’s Attorney policies, prosecutions are now even more aggressive. Cases that previously resulted in probation or reduced charges are now being pursued as felonies with mandatory prison time. If you are facing a weapons charge, the stakes are higher than ever, and having an experienced attorney from the very start is critical to protecting your freedom.

Andrew M. Weisberg, a former Cook County prosecutor, is a skilled Chicago criminal defense attorney who understands the evolving landscape of gun laws and how to fight these charges effectively. Do not risk your future—secure the strongest possible defense today.

New, Tougher Prosecution of Gun Cases in Cook County (2024 and beyond)

Previously, many weapons cases in Cook County resulted in probation, diversion programs, or plea deals that minimized long-term consequences. However, under the new Cook County State’s Attorney, who took office in December 2024, the prosecution is taking a much harsher stance on gun crimes, now seeking mandatory prison time in cases where probation was once a common outcome.

• Felony gun charges that previously allowed probation are now resulting in prison offers.
• Weapons offenses are being charged more aggressively, even for first-time offenders.
• Prosecutors are now less willing to negotiate plea deals or alternative sentencing options.

These shifts in policy make it more critical than ever to have a highly experienced attorney who knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for the best possible resolution.

Illinois Gun & Weapons Laws: Serious Charges with Severe Penalties

Illinois has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and violations can result in felony convictions, lengthy prison sentences, and lifelong consequences. Below are some of the most common weapons charges and their potential penalties:

Unlawful Possession of Weapons (UPW) – 720 ILCS 5/24-1

(Formerly Unlawful Use of Weapons (UUW) – Name changed in 2025 to reflect possession rather than use.)

• Class A Misdemeanor: Minor violations such as possessing a firearm in a restricted area with a valid FOID card.
• Class X Felony: Carrying a firearm without a FOID card in a restricted area—up to 30 years in prison.

Unlawful Possession of Weapons by a Felon (UPW by Felon) – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.1

(Formerly Unlawful Use of Weapons by Felon – Name changed in 2025.)

• Class 3 Felony: 2 to 10 years in prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Aggravated Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (Agg UPW) – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6

(Formerly Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon – Name changed in 2025.)

• Class 4 Felony: 1 to 3 years in prison for carrying a loaded, uncased firearm in public without a FOID card.
• Class 2 Felony: 3 to 7 years in prison for repeat offenders or weapons found in certain locations.

Reckless Discharge of a Firearm – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.5

• Class 4 Felony: 1 to 3 years in prison, though probation was possible in some cases—now increasingly rare under new prosecution policies.

Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm – 720 ILCS 5/24-1.2

• Class 1 Felony: 4 to 15 years in prison for intentionally firing a gun in the direction of a person, building, or occupied vehicle.
• Class X Felony: 6 to 30 years in prison if aggravating factors apply.

Attempted First-Degree Murder – 720 ILCS 5/8-4(a) (720 ILCS 5/9-1(a)(1))

• Class X Felony: 6 to 30 years in prison, with additional 15 to 25 years if a firearm was used.

Why You Need an Experienced Gun Charge Defense Attorney Now More Than Ever

The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office is no longer offering leniency in weapons cases. A conviction for any felony gun charge can lead to mandatory prison time, the loss of your firearm rights, and a permanent record that impacts your future.

Without a strong defense, you risk being sentenced under the new, stricter guidelines. Andrew M. Weisberg has the experience, skills, and legal knowledge to fight these charges aggressively.

Defending Against Gun & Weapons Charges in Chicago

Andrew M. Weisberg is a former Cook County prosecutor who knows how the State builds its cases—and more importantly, how to dismantle them. He has successfully defended clients in weapons cases by utilizing strategies such as:

• Challenging the legality of searches and seizures – If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, evidence may be inadmissible.
• Proving lack of possession – If the firearm was not found on you or in your direct control, the case may be weak.
• Fighting constructive possession claims – Just being near a firearm does not always prove ownership or control.
• Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing – Even with the new policies, a skilled attorney can push for the best possible resolution.

Given the new, harsher stance on gun crimes, you cannot afford to wait to hire an attorney. The prosecution will aggressively pursue your case—you need an experienced defense attorney who will fight just as hard for you.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a Strong, Aggressive Defense

If you or a loved one has been charged with a gun or weapons violation in Chicago, do not delay. The new prosecution policies mean that every gun charge is taken more seriously, with fewer options for leniency.

Call Andrew M. Weisberg today to discuss your case and start building the strongest possible defense.

• Call: (773) 908-9811 for a free, confidential consultation
• Online: Fill out our Case Review Form for immediate legal help

With Cook County’s crackdown on gun crimes, your freedom is on the line. Let Andrew M. Weisberg fight for your rights and your future.