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CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney

Call (844) 668-4258 for a Case Review

At Pissetzky Law LLC, we bring the insider knowledge of a former prosecutor, as well as award-winning defense. Unlike other lawyers who spend their careers getting plea bargains simply to reduce their clients’ charges, we fight to make sure your charges are gone for good, whether through a case dismissal or a not-guilty verdict. Our Chicago criminal lawyers are ready to assert your right to a fair trial in order to clear your name and secure your freedom.

Why Hire a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney?

Criminal defense attorneys play a crucial role in criminal cases, ensuring that defendants' constitutional rights are respected and upheld. To advocate for their clients, a Chicago criminal attorney will conduct their own investigations of criminal matters by interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence from various sources, and scrutinizing the prosecution's story to identify any inconsistencies. 

Additionally, Chicago criminal lawyers will build a legal defense to prepare for trial or strive to reach a plea agreement with the prosecution depending on the best interests of the defendant. This painstaking process ensures that criminal defendants receive due process and fair treatment during criminal proceedings.

What sets our Chicago defense firm apart?

  • Over 20 years of proven legal experience
  • Selection for Illinois Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠
  • In the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100
  • Cases argued before the Illinois Supreme Court, multiple Illinois Appellate Courts, and Federal Courts nationwide
  • Track record of not-guilty verdicts & dismissed cases

Our criminal defense lawyers in Chicago have skillfully represented clients in federal and state courts around the country. Whether you face charges of felony theft, drug trafficking, or even homicide, no case is too difficult or demanding for our powerhouse defenders. We have the results to prove it. So don’t waste any time! Find out how we can provide the high-caliber defense you need.


Request your case review online or call (844) 668-4258 today to speak with a Chicago criminal lawyer. Se habla español. Mówimy po polsku.


We Fight for Your "Not Guilty"

What Are My Rights in a Criminal Case?

If you are involved in a criminal case in Illinois, you have several rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution.

  • The right to remain silent: You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it's often advised to exercise this right and not make any statements without consulting with a Chicago criminal attorney.
  • The right to an attorney: You have the right to have an attorney represent you in court. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you.
  • The right to a fair trial: You have the right to a trial by an impartial jury of your peers. This means that the jury should be made up of people who have no bias or connection to the case.
  • The right to know the charges against you: You have the right to know what you are being charged with, and to be informed of the evidence against you.
  • The right to confront witnesses: You have the right to cross-examine witnesses who testify against you.
  • The right to present evidence: You have the right to present evidence in your defense.
  • The right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures: You have the right to be protected from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government.
  • The right to be presumed innocent: You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Strongest Defense to a Criminal Charge

Defending against criminal charges in Chicago can be a complex and daunting task, regardless of the severity of the charges you are facing. While there are numerous defenses available to individuals accused of crimes, the strongest defense is a strategic approach tailored to an individual's unique set of circumstances. An effective defense must take into account elements like the allegations made by the prosecutorial authority, whether the evidence presented supports those allegations, and any defenses such as duress or self-defense that may be available for a given case. Ultimately, this strategy allows individuals to reframe their situation and get back to living their life.

Stages of the Criminal Process in Illinois

The stages of the criminal process in Illinois can be divided into pre-arrest, arrest, post-arrest and court stages. During the pre-arrest stage, authorities investigate a potential crime to collect evidence. This can involve searching for physical evidence, interviewing witnesses or conducting surveillance. If enough evidence is collected, an arrest is made and the accused is then taken into custody by law enforcement. At the post-arrest stage, charges are filed against the accused and a decision is made whether to release them on bond or not. Lastly, during the court stages there are several steps that must take place before a case reaches trial and sentence is imposed. These stages involve initial hearing, motions, discovery and plea negotiations.

In Illinois all stages of the criminal process could involve attorneys representing both sides as well as a judge overseeing proceedings from start to finish. Depending on the nature of the charges and criminal background of the accused party, criminal proceedings could vary significantly - ranging from something as simple as a traffic citation to more complex criminal cases including hearings involving multiple parties. In addition to engaging with criminal justice services throughout the criminal process itself, those convicted may have access to other programs post-conviction in order to help them become productive members of society again.

Our criminal defense lawyers in Chicago are dedicated to pursuing victory in every case—we never go in hoping to make a deal with the prosecutor. Armed with the insights to anticipate the prosecution’s strategy, we fight tirelessly to beat your criminal charge, getting you the not-guilty verdict you deserve. We never back down from defending your rights. Discover how we can help you secure your finances, freedom, and future.

What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction?

A criminal conviction can have various collateral consequences beyond the immediate criminal punishment. These consequences can impact an individual's personal and professional life long after they have served their sentence. Some of the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction include:

  • Loss of civil rights: A criminal conviction can result in the loss of civil rights, including the right to vote, hold public office, serve on a jury, or possess firearms.
  • Employment: A criminal record can make it challenging for an individual to find employment. Many employers conduct background checks on potential employees and may be hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record, even if the conviction is not related to the job.
  • Housing: A criminal record can also make it difficult for an individual to find housing. Landlords may be hesitant to rent to someone with a criminal record, even if the conviction is not related to housing.
  • Education: A criminal record can affect an individual's ability to pursue higher education. Many colleges and universities conduct background checks on applicants and may deny admission to someone with a criminal record.
  • Immigration: A criminal conviction can also impact an individual's immigration status. Non-citizens with criminal convictions may face deportation or other immigration consequences.
  • Professional licenses: A criminal conviction can also impact an individual's ability to obtain or maintain a professional license, such as a law or medical license.
  • Social stigma: Finally, a criminal conviction can also result in social stigma and discrimination, which can have long-lasting effects on an individual's personal and professional relationships.

Call (844) 668-4258 or email us to discover your defense options in a case review with a recognized criminal defense lawyer in Chicago.


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Client Testimonials

  • His skill and abilities managed to defend me in a case that seemed lost.

    Without you, I would be doomed. I owe you my freedom.

    - Alejandro Martínez-Medina
  • I HIGHLY RECOMMEND GAL PISSETZKY

    Our family's trust, hearts, and tears of 12 years were in this man’s hands and he CHANGED OUR LIVES FOREVER!

    - Google Reviewer
  • Best Attorney Ever

    It's my life that he saved. Please do not look any further...call Gal Pissetzky, as he is as good as it gets.

    - Joe

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  • IN THE NATIONAL TRIAL LAWYERS: TOP 100
  • ILLINOIS SUPER LAWYERS®
  • 10.0 OUT OF 10.0 SUPERB AVVO RATING
  • NOT-GUILTY VERDICTS & CASE DISMISSALS
  • OVER 20 YEARS OF TRIAL-TESTED DEFENSE