Facing Charges? Trust Your Case To An Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer.

Last updated on September 29, 2026

If you have been accused of committing a crime in Illinois, it is important to talk to an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible. Anything you say to the police can be used against you.

At Cohen & Donahue Attorneys At Law, our experienced criminal defense lawyers can help you understand the strength of the case against you, as well as your rights and legal options. We utilize a team of attorneys, based in Elgin and Palatine, who work together to provide our clients with a solid defense. Our team approach enables us to go the extra mile for you when you need it the most. We have established a proven record of success serving clients in Cook, Kane and Winnebago counties, and throughout the northern Illinois area.

Full-Service Representation In Criminal Defense Law

We handle a broad range of criminal law matters, including those involving:

• Drunk driving: Protecting your rights in criminal DUI proceedings and the administrative process of protecting your driver’s license.
• Expungements: If a criminal incident from the past is holding you back in life, we can help you explore your legal options for getting your record cleared.
• Violent offenses: Including assault, domestic violence, kidnapping, armed robbery, manslaughter, murder and other crimes of violence.
• Sex offenses: Including sexual assault, child pornography, lewd conduct and Internet sex crimes.
• Traffic offenses: Defense against traffic infractions and crimes like speeding tickets, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license and more.
• White collar crimes: Including fraud, embezzlement, forgery, counterfeiting and Internet nonviolent financial crimes.
• Probation violations: If you have been accused of violating your probation, we can guide you through the probation revocation hearing process.
• Theft offenses: Including grand theft, petty theft, shoplifting, auto theft and more.
• Orders of protection: If someone has obtained an order of protection against you, we can protect your rights so this has as little impact on your life as possible.

We recognize that every person and every criminal prosecution is unique. We tailor our legal strategies to the individual needs of each and every client. Our ethics, skill and knowledge will help you obtain the most favorable results available in your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Being arrested by the police can feel overwhelming and scary, especially if you do not know what to expect. Understanding your rights and the legal processes can help you stay calm, avoid mistakes and protect yourself as the situation unfolds.

What should I do if I am arrested or being questioned by the police in Illinois?

Always remember that you can enforce your right to remain silent and to ask for an attorney. Avoid trying to clarify, dispute, or explain things immediately, because the authorities can use your statements against you. You also do not have to consent to a search of yourself, your car, your home or your phone unless the officers have a valid warrant or another legal basis.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Illinois?

A misdemeanor is a lower-level offense and may carry jail time of up to one year or less, while a felony is a more severe offense and can carry a prison sentence of one year or more. Examples of misdemeanors in Illinois may include disorderly conduct, simple battery or a first-time DUI. These charges can still lead to significant consequences, but courts treat them less harshly than felonies.

Illinois usually divides misdemeanors into classes, with Class A representing the highest-level misdemeanor. The system also divides felonies into classes, ranging from Class 4 to Class X, with Class X representing the most serious. Examples of felonies may include burglary, aggravated battery or drug offenses involving larger amounts. Felony convictions can have much bigger long-term consequences, including loss of certain rights, employment difficulties and possible immigration consequences.

Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?

You do not always need legal representation for a misdemeanor charge, but it is often beneficial to at least consult one. Even a misdemeanor can lead to jail time, fines, probation, a criminal record, license consequences, and issues with work, school or housing. A lawyer can help you understand the charge, negotiate for dismissal or a reduced charge, and protect you from saying or doing something that may hurt your case.

Talk To An Experienced Attorney About Your Criminal Charges

To schedule your free initial consultation with a knowledgeable defense lawyer, please contact our law offices online or by telephone at (224) 856-5399 to set up an appointment at our offices in Elgin and Palatine. Se habla español.