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Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney

Recent Case Results

  • Accusation: First Degree Murder
    Facing: 60 Years in Prison
    Result: Jury Verdict of Not Guilty
  • Accusation: Armed Violence, Super Class-X Drug Possession
    Facing: 30 Years in Prison at 85 % time
    Result: Jury Verdict of Not Guilty
  • Accusation: Class X Drug Possession with Intent
    Facing: 60 years in Prison, 50% time
    Result: Jury Verdict Guilty of Straight Possession, 8 years at 50%
  • Accusation: Murder
    Facing: 40 years in Prison, 50% time
    Result: Reversed on Appeal, New Trial Granted
  • Accusation: Child Endangerment
    Facing: 365 Days in Jail
    Result: One year Expungeable Supervision
  • Accusation: Felony Criminal Damage to Property
    Facing: Incarceration in Juvenile Department of Corrections
    Result: Charges Dropped
  • Accusation: Home Invasion, Extortion
    Facing: 30 years in Prison
    Result: No Charges Filed
  • Accusation: Battery
    Facing: 365 days in jail, no good time
    Result: Charges Dropped
  • Accusation: Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child
    Facing: 60 years in prison, 85 % time
    Result: Reduced to Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse, 5 years at 50% time
  • Accusation: Felony Weapon Possession
    Facing: Three Years in Prison
    Result: Reduced to Misdemeanor, One Year Probation
  • Accusation: Battery, Assault on Police Officer
    Facing: 365 days in jail
    Result: Charges Dropped

Chicago Area Criminal Defense by a Respected Legal Innovator

For serious felony defense in Northern Illinois, you can turn to a lawyer who has dedicated an entire career to tough fights on important issues. If your future is on the line, or a loved one has been charged, I encourage you to contact me, Stephen L. Richards, now for a free consultation. PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS WHEN THE STAKES ARE HIGH.

A Seasoned, Trial-Proven Attorney

My legal career began as a law clerk for the Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court — where I have since argued six cases and delivered dozens of oral arguments. I then spent over a decade as an assistant public defender in Cook County and many more years in a leadership role with the Office of the State Appellate Defender. I am a veteran of over 75 felony jury trials and 300 bench trials, and I am prepared to handle high-stakes, complex cases. I am a recipient of a national award for excellence in criminal defense.

Always Ready With Insight, Diligence and Strategy

As an experienced Chicago criminal defense lawyer, my strengths begin with listening skills and responsiveness. My law firm's clients depend on personal contact, clear guidance and my constant availability. My clients also benefit from my:

  • Familiarity with courts and officials throughout much of Illinois, including the Chicago, Rockford, Rock Island and Champaign-Urbana areas, gained over a 25-year legal career
  • Investigative skills and diligence in reviewing all documents, forensic evidence and other material relevant to your case
  • Ability to use advanced technology to manage information and mount the best possible defense for each client
  • Deep experience in plea negotiations and mitigation of sentencing, backed by proven, respected criminal defense trial skills

Illinois Murder Defense Lawyer: Contact Me When Your Future Is on the Line

I am determined to protect all your legal rights and fight for a just outcome in every matter, from drug charges to DUI to murder defense cases. If you are considering action as a victim of police brutality or false arrest, I am ready to stand up for your civil rights. If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a white collar crime such as fraud, if you are accused of a violent offense such as robbery or if you are charged with a sex offense, I can help you.

To speak with an experienced attorney, call me at 866.852.6426, locally at 773.877.3259 or contact me online.