Using Legal And Technical Knowledge For A Strong Murder Defense

If you or a family member faces a murder charge, attempted murder or another serious felony in northern Illinois, you need an experienced and committed criminal defense attorney to fight for you. At the Law Office of Stephen L. Richards, our criminal defense lawyers represent clients in Cook County and throughout northern Illinois from our office in Chicago.

Our founding attorney, Stephen L. Richards, has led the defense of many people charged with homicide in Illinois, including several who faced the death penalty. This experience has earned him the designation of certified lead counsel by the Illinois Supreme Court Capital Litigation Trial Bar. Only a select group of attorneys has attained this certification, for which a review committee rigorously evaluated his jury trial experience, forensic knowledge and ethical standards.

A Multi-Decade Record Of Acquittals, Reduced Consequences And Successful Appeals

Whether you must ultimately stand trial for murder or negotiate with the prosecution, you can depend on our commitment to total case preparation, including a detailed investigation into all aspects of your case, effective presentation of complex DNA, scientific and forensic evidence and tireless protection of your rights throughout every phase of your murder investigation and trial. We leave no stone unturned, and will utilize DNA, video evidence and expert witnesses to help support your defense.

Our efforts have produced many positive outcomes, including:

• Avoidance of a capital (death) sentence for one defendant in the Palatine Brown’s Chicken multiple homicide case, and for another individual charged with a killing during a bank robbery
• Reduction of a murder charge to involuntary manslaughter, leading to the release of my client
• Effective use of the insanity defense to earn a murder defendant’s acquittal on appeal
• Many pleas for mitigation in sentencing that have saved defendants’ lives and preserved hope for rehabilitation and a productive future

We understand how overwhelming the criminal justice system can be, especially when your rights and freedoms are on the line. From our experience in jury selection to ensuring that you are able to get bond, you can trust our knowledge of the prosecutors, judges and courts throughout Illinois. We also have experience with preservation of appeal and wrongful convictions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Murder Charges

The criminal justice system can be incredibly confusing, but we work hard to provide answers and support. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often.

What are the penalties for murder in Chicago, Illinois?

Illinois is no longer a death-penalty state. That means that the maximum punishment allowed by law for a first-degree murder conviction is life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The minimum sentence is 20 years.

Can a juvenile be charged with murder in Illinois?

Illinois permits children as young as 13 years of age to be tried as adults if the prosecutor can demonstrate that it is in the best interest of public safety.

As of 2024, however, an exception has now been carved out for defendants under 21 years of age who are convicted of murder. Even if sentenced to natural life, they become eligible for parole after serving 40 years. Defendants convicted of second-degree murder face between four and 20 years in prison.

What steps should you take if you are falsely accused of murder?

It is natural to feel scared and overwhelmed, but it is essential to stay calm. Panicking can hinder your ability to make rational decisions. Do not attempt to explain or talk yourself out of the situation. Anything you say can end up hurting your defense, so invoke your right to remain silent and ask for legal representation immediately. The situation is too serious to navigate on your own.

What is considered attempted murder in Illinois?

Attempted murder is a serious criminal offense that involves both the specific intent to cause the death of another person and some action that counts as a substantial step toward carrying out that goal. Mere thoughts or plans alone are usually not concrete enough to qualify as a true attempt.

What is an accessory to murder in Illinois?

Even if you are not physically present when a murder is committed, you can be charged as an accessory to the crime if you assist the actual killer in any way before or after the murder. This is also a serious offense.

Always remember that you are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt – no matter what the charges. When your entire future is at stake, put your faith in an attorney who can carry the weight of a murder case.

Murder Is A Serious Charge; You Need A Proven Defense Attorney By Your Side

Not every criminal defense lawyer is prepared for the pressure and complexity of a murder case and potential trial. For personal attention from an attorney who has what it takes to go the distance with you, please call or email us today. To schedule a free consultation at our Chicago office, call us at 773-467-7079 or complete our online contact form to get in touch.