Weapons Charges Lawyer in Southern Illinois
When you're facing weapons charges in Southern Illinois, the stakes are high—and the consequences can be severe. From mandatory prison time to permanent loss of gun rights, a conviction can reshape your life in ways you never imagined. That’s why you need a skilled, experienced legal team that knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case, suppress unlawful evidence, and protect your rights at every turn. At Combs Waterkotte, we deliver precisely that.
Whether you’ve been charged with unlawful possession, concealed carry violations, or the use of a weapon during the commission of a crime, our Southern Illinois weapons charges lawyers are here to fight back. With decades of combined criminal defense experience, a record of courtroom victories, and an unyielding commitment to our clients, we’re the team you can trust when your freedom is on the line.
If you’re facing weapons charges anywhere in Southern Illinois, contact Combs Waterkotte or call (314) 900-HELP for a free and confidential consultation.
Gun & Weapon Defense Lawyers Serving Clients Throughout Southern Illinois
Yes, the Second Amendment grants you the right to own and carry a firearm—but that right comes with serious limitations, especially in Illinois. This state enforces some of the strictest and most complex gun laws in the country. Whether it’s the type of firearm, where it was carried, or how it was displayed—minor missteps can quickly escalate into felony charges that threaten your freedom, your reputation, and your right to own a gun ever again.
At Combs Waterkotte, we stand behind responsible gun owners who are now facing harsh penalties. We understand how one moment—or one misunderstanding—can put you in legal jeopardy. Our team digs deep to identify the exact statute involved and build a defense that protects not only your rights, but your future. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a weapons violation in Southern Illinois, don’t leave your case to chance. Let us help.
Southern Illinois Weapons Charges Are Serious. Our Defense Is Even Stronger.
In Illinois, one of the most common ways people get charged with a gun crime is by unknowingly violating firearm owner’s identification (FOID) card laws. To legally possess weapons or ammunition, Illinois residents must have this card. But what may seem like a paperwork issue to you is treated like a felony by the state—putting your freedom and future at risk.
That’s where we come in. At Combs Waterkotte, we defend individuals across Southern Illinois against a wide range of weapons-related charges, including:
- Possession of a firearm without a valid FOID
- Gun charges stemming from drug or narcotics cases
- Weapons allegedly used in burglaries or other violent crimes
Don’t let the government build a case unchecked. Let us step in and fight for your rights from day one. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to discuss the specifics of your case with an expert weapons charges lawyer in Southern Illinois.
Common Types of Weapons Charges in Southern Illinois
Illinois has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and even a minor violation can escalate into a felony offense. We represent clients facing a wide range of firearms and weapons-related charges, including:
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) (720 ILCS 5/24-1)
Charged when a person allegedly carries or uses a weapon in a prohibited manner or location. - Felon in Possession of a Firearm (720 ILCS 5/24-1.1)
A serious charge with mandatory prison time for individuals with a prior felony record. - Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon (AUUW) (720 ILCS 5/24-1.6)
Involves possession of a loaded firearm without a valid FOID or concealed carry license. - Unlawful Sale or Transfer of a Firearm (720 ILCS 5/24-3)
Applies to those accused of transferring or selling firearms without the proper authorization. - Possession of a Weapon in a School or Government Building (105 ILCS 5/10-27.1A-1)
A class 3 or class 4 felony, depending on the specifics of the case. - Use of a Weapon During Commission of a Crime (720 ILCS 5/33A-1)
Enhances the severity of the primary criminal charge, often triggering extended sentencing.
No matter the charge, our team aggressively investigates the facts, challenges the evidence, and protects your rights from the moment we take your case.
What Weapons are Prohibited in Southern Illinois?
While lawful gun ownership is permitted with the appropriate licenses, certain weapons are outright banned under state and federal law. Possession of these items can result in felony charges, serious penalties, and long-term consequences. Prohibited weapons in Southern Illinois include:
- Fully Automatic Firearms – Machine guns and any firearm that continuously fires with one trigger pull are illegal unless federally registered before May 1986.
- Short-Barreled Shotguns & Rifles – Any shotgun with a barrel under 18 inches or rifle under 16 inches (without special federal registration) is prohibited.
- Silencers/Suppressors – These devices are illegal in Illinois, even with federal approval.
- Switchblades and Ballistic Knives – Possessing a knife that opens automatically or ejects a blade can be a criminal offense.
- Metal Knuckles (Brass Knuckles) – Carrying or possessing brass knuckles is illegal and classified as a dangerous weapon offense.
- Throwing Stars and Certain Martial Arts Weapons – Many types of handheld throwing weapons or spiked instruments are banned.
- Explosive Devices or Bombs – Possession of any type of destructive device can result in federal and state charges.
- Improvised Weapons – Even legal items (like bats or tools) may become “weapons” under Illinois law if carried with the intent to harm or threaten.
If you’re unsure about the legality of a weapon—or have already been charged with possession of a prohibited item—it’s essential to contact a defense attorney immediately. At Combs Waterkotte, we help clients in Southern Illinois navigate these complex laws and fight to protect their rights. Give us a call right away at (314) 900-HELP.
Penalties for Weapons Offenses in Southern Illinois
Weapons offenses in Illinois carry steep penalties. Depending on the circumstances, you may face:
- Felony convictions resulting in years of imprisonment
- Mandatory minimum sentences, particularly for repeat offenders
- Revocation of FOID or concealed carry licenses
- Loss of Second Amendment rights
- Increased penalties when charges are connected to violent crimes or drug trafficking
- Heavy fines and probation terms
Even misdemeanor weapons offenses can leave you with a permanent criminal record, affecting job prospects, housing, and firearm ownership for life.
Why You Need a Southern Illinois Weapons Charges Lawyer
Trying to handle a weapons charge on your own or relying on a public defender can leave you exposed to the harshest outcomes. A dedicated Southern Illinois criminal defense attorney brings a strategic edge to your case by:
- Reviewing the legality of the traffic stop, search, or arrest
- Identifying constitutional violations (e.g., unlawful search and seizure)
- Challenging the admissibility of evidence, including ballistics and witness statements
- Exploring pretrial diversion or dismissal options
- Building a compelling narrative that undermines the prosecution’s version of events
- Representing you powerfully at every stage—from arraignment to trial
At Combs Waterkotte, we treat every case with urgency and precision. We understand that a conviction could affect your job, your family, and your future—and we fight to make sure that doesn’t happen.
