East St. Louis Gun Crime Lawyer

East St. Louis Gun Crime Attorney

Using or even carrying a firearm during the commission of a crime in East St. Louis can drastically increase the penalties you face. Even unlawful possession on its own can lead to felony charges. An East St. Louis gun crime lawyer can examine whether your rights were violated, challenge the legality of the search or arrest, and push back against any unjust or exaggerated charges.

A Criminal Defense Firm for East St. Louis Gun Crime Charges

Gun charges in East St. Louis often come with the potential for mandatory sentencing and little room for negotiation. Clients across St. Clair County trust The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, when their rights and freedom are at stake. Jessica Koester has represented East St. Louis defendants for decades and shielded them from the most serious penalties under the law.

Her strategy often focuses on the prosecution’s case and potential missteps by police. She can focus on whether the stop was legal, how the weapon was found, and if law enforcement followed proper procedures or violated your rights.

By the Numbers: Gun Crime Statistics in East St. Louis

Gun violence remains a critical issue in East St. Louis, though recent trends show signs of improvement. In 2023, the city reported 27 homicides and 82 non-fatal shootings, part of an ongoing decline.

During the same year, Illinois State Police conducted targeted enforcement efforts, seizing 96 firearms and filing 160 firearm-related charges. In a notable case from November 2024, a 30-year-old East St. Louis resident was charged with 12 counts of aggravated battery with a firearm after allegedly opening fire on multiple people at a local bar.

How to Fight Gun Crime Charges

Fighting gun crime charges can keep a life-altering conviction off your record. A strong defense begins by scrutinizing how the evidence was collected and whether the prosecution has strong proof that you committed a crime. In some cases, they may not have reliable evidence that you are the person who committed a crime, especially if they are solely relying on eyewitness testimony.

If evidence was collected without a warrant or you were detained without probable cause, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress the evidence. It’s also possible to argue that the gun wasn’t yours, especially in shared spaces. A solid defense focuses on weakening the state’s case before it ever reaches trial.

Benefits of Legal Representation in Criminal Court

Whether your arrest happened near Emerson Park Station or after a stop on Interstate 64, legal representation can shape the entire course of your gun case. A criminal defense lawyer knows how to challenge unlawful searches and scrutinize police testimony. They can find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that lead to a favorable outcome for your case.

Schedule Your East St. Louis Gun Crime Consultation Today

Gun crime charges in East St. Louis are taken very seriously by our courts. They can lead to extended prison time, especially if tied to prior convictions or other felonies. Defending yourself often requires a close examination of the legality of your search and whether you actually possess the gun in question.

At The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, we build aggressive, trial-ready defenses for serious firearms charges. Contact our office to request your initial consultation.