Real Results from Our DuPage County Property Crime Lawyers

Our prosecutor-judge backgrounds deliver outcomes that protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Recent case victories show what's possible with the right defense team:

• ‍Retail Theft Dismissed – Client accused of shoplifting $800 in merchandise. We proved lack of intent, judge threw out all charges.‍
• Burglary Reduced to Trespass – Residential burglary felony charge. Negotiated misdemeanor plea, client avoided prison time.‍
• Identity Theft Gets Probation – Multiple fraud counts with restitution demands. Secured supervision, avoided jail sentence.‍
• Criminal Damage Restitution Only – Vandalism case with $5,000 damage. Negotiated civil resolution, avoided criminal conviction.‍
• Forgery Charges Dropped – Check fraud allegations against business owner. Proved legitimate transaction, all charges dismissed.‍
• Embezzlement Gets Supervision – Employee theft of $15,000 over six months. Negotiated court supervision with restitution plan.

Every case is unique, but our insider knowledge consistently finds opportunities others miss.

Understanding Property Crime Charges in DuPage County

A property crime charge means you're accused of unlawfully taking, damaging, or using someone else's property without permission under Illinois law.

If convicted, you face potential jail time from 30 days to 15 years depending on the charge and value, fines up to $25,000, mandatory restitution payments to victims, probation with strict conditions, and a permanent criminal record affecting employment and housing applications.

But an arrest isn't a conviction—and that's where experience matters.

Most clients we defend aren't career criminals. They're employees who made poor financial decisions during hardship, shoppers falsely accused by overzealous security, or people whose actions were misinterpreted by witnesses. Good people facing serious consequences from misunderstandings or moments of poor judgment.

Illinois prosecutors pursue every property crime aggressively, even minor shoplifting cases. That's why you need defenders who know their approach.

Mike McMahon prosecuted hundreds of property cases—he knows exactly what evidence they need and where cases fall apart. Judge Pierce presided over property trials for years—he knows what creates reasonable doubt and what arguments win in court.

This insider perspective changes everything. We see weaknesses others miss: lack of intent, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, constitutional violations. We know which prosecutors negotiate and which judges favor certain defenses. We understand when to push for dismissal and when to secure supervision—knowledge that only comes from working both sides.

Your future, reputation, and career deserve more than textbook defense.

Property Crime Charges We Defend in DuPage County

Every property crime charge carries different penalties and requires different defense strategies based on the specific statute and circumstances.

We defend all Illinois property crime charges throughout DuPage County, giving you experienced representation regardless of the complexity or severity of your case.

Theft-Related Offenses

• Retail Theft (720 ILCS 5/16-25) – shoplifting under $300 (Class A misdemeanor) or over $300 (felony), facing jail time, fines, and retail ban consequences.
• Theft (720 ILCS 5/16-1) – unlawfully taking property of another, with penalties from misdemeanor to Class 1 felony based on property value and circumstances.
• Identity Theft (720 ILCS 5/16-30) – using another person's personal identifying information without permission, Class 3 felony with severe credit and employment consequences.
• Forgery (720 ILCS 5/17-3) – making or altering documents with intent to defraud, Class 3 felony carrying 2-5 years prison and restitution requirements.

Unlawful Entry Crimes

• Burglary (720 ILCS 5/19-1) – unlawfully entering building with intent to commit theft or felony, Class 2 felony with 3-7 years prison.
• Residential Burglary (720 ILCS 5/19-3) – entering dwelling place of another without permission, Class 1 felony with 4-15 years mandatory prison time.
• Criminal Trespass (720 ILCS 5/21-3) – unlawfully entering or remaining on property after being forbidden, Class B misdemeanor to Class 4 felony depending on circumstances.

Property Damage Charges

• Criminal Damage to Property (720 ILCS 5/21-1) – intentionally damaging another's property, penalties based on damage amount from misdemeanor to Class 2 felony.
• Arson (720 ILCS 5/20-1) – intentionally damaging property by fire or explosion, Class 2 felony with 3-7 years prison and massive restitution.
• Graffiti (720 ILCS 5/21-1.3) – defacing property with paint or markings, Class A misdemeanor with mandatory community service and cleanup costs.
• Destruction of Evidence (720 ILCS 5/31-4) – altering or destroying evidence to prevent prosecution, Class 4 felony with enhanced penalties if obstruction proven.

White Collar Property Crimes

• Embezzlement (720 ILCS 5/16-1) – theft by employee or person in position of trust, enhanced penalties and professional license consequences.
• Financial Fraud (720 ILCS 5/17-1) – obtaining property through deception or false pretenses, Class 3 felony with restitution and civil liability.
• Check Fraud (720 ILCS 5/17-1) – writing bad checks or altering checks, penalties based on amount with banking industry prosecution support.
• Credit Card Fraud (720 ILCS 5/17-36) – unlawful use of credit or debit cards, Class A misdemeanor to Class 2 felony based on amount and pattern.

Every property case has weaknesses—our job is finding them and using them to beat the prosecution with strategies that come from decades of insider experience.

What We Can Do For Your Property Crime Charges In DuPage County

A property crime charge requires comprehensive legal defense across multiple fronts—from challenging evidence to negotiating restitution terms.

Our prosecutor and judge experience gives us the insight to attack your case from every angle while providing complete representation throughout the entire process.

Case Investigation & Evidence Collection

• Police Report Analysis – identifying inconsistencies in witness statements and investigative procedures.
• Surveillance Review – obtaining and analyzing all security camera footage from stores, buildings, and public areas.
• Witness Interviews – locating favorable witnesses and exposing credibility problems with accusers.
• Financial Documentation – gathering records that explain transactions or prove legitimate ownership.
• Expert Consultations – bringing in handwriting experts, forensic accountants, or technology specialists when needed.

Defense Strategies & Challenges

• Intent Challenges – proving lack of criminal intent required for conviction under Illinois law.
• Mistaken Identity Defense – exposing unreliable witness testimony and flawed surveillance evidence.
• Ownership Disputes – establishing rightful possession or permission to use property in question.
• Constitutional Violations – suppressing illegally obtained evidence and statements through motion practice.
• False Accusation Defense – demonstrating ulterior motives or credibility issues with accusers.
• Value Challenges – disputing property valuations to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors.

Court Representation & Advocacy

• Arraignment Representation – protecting your rights at first appearance and entering appropriate pleas.
• Motion Filing – pre-trial motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or limit testimony.
• Plea Negotiations – leveraging relationships with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
• Trial Representation – full jury trial defense when fighting is the best option for your case.
• Restitution Hearings – challenging excessive damage claims and negotiating reasonable payment terms.
• Sentencing Advocacy – minimizing penalties through mitigation evidence and character references.

Post-Conviction & Long-Term Services

• Appeal Services – challenging unfavorable verdicts when legal errors occurred during trial.
• Expungement & Sealing – clearing your record when legally possible after successful completion.
• Probation Compliance – ensuring you meet all court requirements and restitution schedules.
• Employment Protection – minimizing background check consequences through strategic case resolution.

With decades of experience as prosecutor and judge, we know which strategies actually work and how to execute them effectively in DuPage County courts.

Common Outcomes We Pursue for Property Cases in DuPage County

Every property case is different, but our prosecutor and judge experience helps us identify the best possible outcome for your specific situation.

We know what outcomes are realistic in DuPage County courts and how to position your case to achieve them.

Best-Case Outcomes

• Complete Dismissal – all charges dropped due to lack of evidence or constitutional violations.
• Not Guilty Verdict – winning at trial when evidence is weak or witnesses lack credibility.
• Charge Reduction – felony reduced to misdemeanor or property charges reduced to municipal violations.

Favorable Plea Outcomes

• Court Supervision – completing requirements without a conviction appearing on your record.
• Conditional Discharge – probation without jail time for first-time offenders with clean completion.
• Deferred Prosecution – charges held in abeyance and dismissed after meeting program requirements.
• Misdemeanor Plea – felony charges reduced to misdemeanor level to avoid prison exposure.

Penalty Minimization

• Jail Avoidance – probation or community service instead of incarceration for misdemeanor charges.
• Reduced Restitution – challenging excessive damage claims and negotiating reasonable payment terms.
• Fine Reduction – minimizing financial penalties and court costs through skilled negotiation.
• Probation Terms – securing favorable conditions that don't interfere with work or family obligations.

Long-Term Protection

• Employment Preservation – keeping professional licenses and avoiding career-ending consequences.
• Housing Protection – preventing rental application problems through strategic charge resolution.
• Future Expungement Eligibility – preserving options to clear your record completely later.
• Immigration Status Protection – avoiding deportation consequences for non-citizens and permanent residents.

Our insider knowledge of DuPage County prosecutors and judges helps us pursue the outcome that best protects your future, whether that's fighting for dismissal or negotiating the most favorable resolution possible.

Property Crime Defense Coverage Throughout DuPage County

We defend clients arrested for property crimes anywhere in DuPage County, Illinois.

After 40 years practicing in these courts, we know every jurisdiction's unique procedures and preferences, giving you advantages that outside attorneys simply can't provide.

We Defend Clients Arrested In:

Wheaton • Naperville • Aurora • Elmhurst • Lombard • Downers Grove • Glen Ellyn • Oak Brook • Hinsdale • Addison • Villa Park • Bloomingdale • Carol Stream • Glendale Heights • Lisle • Westmont • Woodridge • Bartlett • West Chicago • Hanover Park • Bensenville • Clarendon Hills • Darien • Itasca • Roselle • Warrenville • Winfield • Wood Dale • Burr Ridge • Willowbrook

We also cover unincorporated DuPage County (Sheriff's Department arrests) and retail security detentions at major shopping centers and stores.

DuPage County Court Locations

DuPage County Judicial Center (Main Courthouse)

Address: 505 North County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187

‍Handles: All felony property cases and majority of misdemeanor property crimes

‍Our Experience: 40+ years appearing before every judge in this courthouse

Addison Field Court

Address: 3 Friendship Plaza, Addison, IL 60101

‍Handles: Limited misdemeanor cases and minor property violations

‍Coverage Area: Addison and surrounding jurisdictions

Downers Grove Field Court

Address: 4000 Saratoga Avenue, Downers Grove, IL 60515

‍Handles: Limited misdemeanor cases and minor property violations

‍Coverage Area: Downers Grove and surrounding jurisdictions

Additional Coverage

• ‍Cook County courts for neighboring jurisdiction cases
• ‍Kane County courts for border area arrests
• ‍Will County courts for multi-county charges
• ‍Municipal courts for local ordinance violations

Our deep relationships with local prosecutors and familiarity with each judge's courtroom preferences give you the local advantage that determines whether you beat your property charges or face maximum penalties.

How Our Property Crime Defense Process Works in DuPage County

From the moment you call, we take control of your case and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Our systematic approach combines immediate action with long-term strategy, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks while we build the strongest possible defense.

Phase 1: Immediate Response & Case Evaluation

We talk to you right away to understand what happened and make sure you don't miss important deadlines or make statements that hurt your case. We secure surveillance footage and witness information before they disappear, look at how you were arrested or cited to find problems with the investigation, and create a defense plan that fits your specific situation.

Phase 2: Investigation & Evidence Gathering

We go through the police reports and witness statements to find mistakes and get all the evidence the state has against you, including security videos and financial records. We do our own investigation by visiting the scene, talking to witnesses, and bringing in experts when needed. We also gather character references and documentation that might explain the circumstances and write motions to throw out evidence or dismiss your charges.

Phase 3: Court Representation & Advocacy

We go to court with you for your first appearance and protect your rights, then talk to prosecutors using our connections to get you a better deal. We argue in court to keep out evidence that was gathered illegally and challenge witness testimony that lacks credibility. If your case goes to trial, we prepare arguments and witnesses to defend you.

Phase 4: Resolution & Follow-Through

We get you the best plea deal possible when that's right for your case, or we fight for you in trial when that's better. If you do get convicted, we work to reduce your penalties and help you complete all court requirements like community service or restitution payments. We also work to clear your record later when the law allows it.

Throughout this entire process, you'll receive regular updates and clear explanations of what's happening, so you're never left wondering about the status of your case or what comes next.

How to Get Your Property Crime Defense Started in DuPage County

Getting experienced property crime defense shouldn't be complicated when you're already dealing with arrest stress and legal uncertainty.

Our simple 3-step process gets you immediate help and a clear path forward, so you know exactly what to expect and how we'll protect you.

Step 1: Call or Fill Out Our Form

Call 630-953-4400 anytime, 24/7 for an immediate consultation, or fill out our contact form if you prefer a callback at a convenient time.

This free case review has no cost or obligation—we understand property arrests are urgent and time-sensitive, so we're available weekends and holidays because arrests don't wait for business hours.

Step 2: Get Your Defense Plan

We'll listen to everything that happened during your arrest and give you a complete explanation of the charges you're facing and their potential consequences.

You'll receive a specific defense strategy showing how we plan to attack weaknesses in the prosecution's case, realistic timeline expectations for resolution, and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We'll outline exactly what happens next and what you need to do.

Step 3: Get Your Defense

We start working on your case the moment you hire us, immediately securing surveillance footage and witness statements before they disappear.

We handle all court filings, paperwork, and legal deadlines while leveraging our prosecutor relationships to begin negotiations immediately. We'll challenge weak evidence and fight to protect your reputation while keeping you updated throughout the entire process.

No waiting, no confusion, no surprises – just experienced property crime defense that starts protecting you immediately.

Why McMahon Law Offices Wins Property Cases in DuPage County

We've been on every side of a property case—prosecutor, judge, and defense—and we use that insider knowledge to protect you.

Here's what sets us apart from other property crime lawyers in DuPage County:

Former Prosecutor Advantage

Mike McMahon spent years as a prosecutor, so he knows exactly how the state builds property cases and where they make mistakes. When he sees the police reports and evidence against you, he spots the weak points that other defense lawyers miss because he used to be the one trying to convict people like you.

Retired Judge Insight

Judge Pierce decided hundreds of property cases from the bench, so he knows what evidence gets excluded and what arguments actually work with judges and juries. His experience as the person making these decisions gives you an advantage that regular defense attorneys simply can't match.

40+ Years in DuPage Courts

We know every courthouse, every judge, and every prosecutor in DuPage County personally. This local knowledge helps us get better plea deals and win more cases because we understand how each person thinks and what they respond to. Outside lawyers don't have these relationships.

Successful Property Defenses

From simple theft to complex fraud, we've successfully defended every type of property charge you can face in Illinois. Our track record speaks for itself—we know what works because we've done it hundreds of times before with real results for real clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Property Crime Defense in DuPage County

What makes McMahon Law Offices different from other property crime lawyers in DuPage County?

We bring unique insider experience that other firms can't match. Mike McMahon prosecuted property cases for years, so he knows exactly how the state builds their case and where to find weaknesses. Judge Cary Pierce presided over hundreds of property trials, so he knows what evidence gets excluded and what arguments create reasonable doubt. This prosecutor-judge perspective, combined with 40+ years in DuPage County courts, gives you advantages that traditional defense attorneys simply cannot provide.

Do you handle property cases 24/7 in DuPage County?

Yes, we're available 24/7 for property crime emergencies because arrests don't wait for business hours. Whether you're detained for retail theft at a shopping center or need immediate assistance following burglary allegations, call us anytime. We understand that the first hours after an arrest are critical for protecting your rights and preserving favorable evidence.

What types of property charges do you defend in DuPage County?

We defend all property crimes in DuPage County, from simple theft to complex fraud schemes. This includes retail theft and shoplifting, burglary and residential burglary, identity theft and forgery, criminal damage to property, trespassing violations, and white-collar property crimes like embezzlement. Each type requires different defense strategies, and we have experience winning all of them.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer after property crime charges in DuPage County?

Contact us immediately—ideally within hours of your arrest or citation. Early intervention allows us to preserve evidence, protect your rights, and begin building your defense while details are fresh. The state moves quickly in property cases, and retailers or property owners often press for swift prosecution. The sooner you call, the more options we have to protect you.

Can you really get property crime charges dismissed or reduced?

Yes, we regularly achieve dismissals, reductions, and alternative sentences for our clients. Every property case has potential weaknesses like lack of intent, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, or constitutional violations. Our prosecutor and judge backgrounds help us identify these issues that others miss. While every case is different and we can't guarantee specific outcomes, our track record includes hundreds of successful defenses.

What courts do you practice in for DuPage County property cases?

We defend property cases in all DuPage County courts, including the main DuPage County Judicial Center in Wheaton, as well as the Addison and Downers Grove field courts for applicable cases. After 40 years practicing in these specific courtrooms, we know every judge's approach to property cases and every prosecutor's negotiation style, which gives you a significant local advantage.

Get Immediate Property Crime Help Now

Don't let property allegations damage your reputation and future. The decisions you make today determine whether you avoid conviction, keep your job, and protect your record.

Every hour matters. Evidence gets analyzed. Witnesses get interviewed. Options close.

Call 630-953-4400 or fill out our contact form to get your free case evaluation.

Available 24/7 because property arrests don't wait for business hours.

Defending property cases throughout DuPage, Cook, Kane, and Will Counties. Former prosecutor and retired judge using insider knowledge to protect your future.