Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon (AUUW) in Skokie, Illinois

Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon (AUUW) is a serious crime in Illinois, particularly in Skokie, where local law enforcement and courts take weapon-related offenses very seriously. If you are charged with AUUW, understanding the legal ramifications and seeking an experienced defense attorney is crucial.

What Constitutes Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon?

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/24-1.6, AUUW involves the possession or use of a firearm under circumstances that elevate the offense from simple unlawful use of a weapon to aggravated unlawful use. Several factors can lead to an AUUW charge, including:

• Possession of a firearm in a prohibited location such as a school, public park, or government building.
• Carrying a loaded firearm without a valid Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card or Concealed Carry License (CCL).
• Possession of a firearm while committing a felony or other serious crime.
• Carrying a firearm without it being enclosed in a case or unloaded.

Penalties for Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon in Skokie

The penalties for AUUW in Skokie are severe and can include both prison time and substantial fines. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the offense, AUUW can be charged as a Class 4 felony or higher. A conviction may lead to:

• Imprisonment for 1 to 3 years (Class 4 felony) or longer if aggravating factors are present.
• Fines of up to $25,000.
• Permanent criminal record which can affect your ability to find employment, obtain housing, or possess firearms in the future.

Defending Against AUUW Charges in Skokie

If you are facing AUUW charges in Skokie, you need a skilled defense attorney who understands the intricacies of Illinois gun laws and the specific practices at the Skokie courthouse. There are several defense strategies that may be applicable depending on your case:

• Challenging the legality of the firearm search: If the firearm was discovered during an unlawful search, the evidence may be suppressed.
• Questioning the intent or knowledge of possession: If you were unaware of the firearm’s presence, this could be a viable defense.
• Proving lawful possession or use: If you have a valid FOID card or CCL and were compliant with other aspects of the law, the charges might be reduced or dismissed.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Skokie AUUW Defense Attorney?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling gun-related offenses in Skokie and throughout Cook County. His background as a former prosecutor gives him unique insights into the strategies used by the prosecution, allowing him to build a robust defense on your behalf.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a free consultation today at (847) 350-1266 to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Don’t leave your future to chance—work with an attorney who knows how to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.