Profile
Elite Criminal Defense for High-Stakes Felonies
When your life, your freedom, and your future are on the line, there is no substitute for experience. The Law Office of Stephen L. Richards is a distinguished criminal defense firm in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in the most serious and complex legal battles. Founder Stephen L. Richards is a veteran attorney with over 35 years of experience in the trenches of the criminal justice system. A graduate of Brooklyn Law School (1983), he has dedicated his career to defending the accused against the overwhelming power of the state. Unlike general practitioners, this firm focuses exclusively on serious felonies, including murder, sexual assault, and drug trafficking. Stephen Richards is widely regarded as one of the best appellate attorneys in the state, having successfully overturned convictions in twelve murder cases and won seven out of nine arguments before the Illinois Supreme Court. 🏛️⚖️
Unmatched Trial and Appellate Experience
The Law Office of Stephen L. Richards handles cases that other lawyers might find too difficult or controversial. The firm's expertise covers:
- Homicide and Violent Crimes: Providing aggressive defense for First Degree Murder and other violent felonies. The firm investigates every angle, from forensics to witness credibility, to build a defense that creates reasonable doubt.
- Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief: This is a core strength of the firm. If you have been wrongfully convicted, Stephen Richards has the intellectual prowess to find legal errors in the trial record and fight for a reversal or a new trial.
- Police Brutality and Civil Rights: advocating for victims of police misconduct, false arrest, and coerced confessions. The firm has established important legal principles regarding the rights of defendants to consult with counsel.
- Drug and Sex Offenses: defending against high-level trafficking charges and sensitive sex crime allegations with discretion and tenacity.
If you urgently need a lawyer for a case where the stakes are life in prison, you need the specialized skills of Stephen L. Richards.
Recognized Excellence
Stephen L. Richards' commitment to justice has earned him prestigious recognition. He has been selected to Super Lawyers every year since 2012 and was awarded the esteemed Defender Prize by the National Legal Aid and Defender Association in 2003. His peers and clients alike respect his deep knowledge of the law and his fearless courtroom demeanor. He is often advised by his trial partner and associate, ensuring a collaborative team approach to every defense.
24/7 Availability for Critical Situations
Legal emergencies do not wait for business hours. The Law Office of Stephen L. Richards offers 24/7 accessibility, including jail visits. Located on West Jackson Boulevard in the Loop, the firm is perfectly positioned to serve clients at the Cook County courthouses and federal courts. They offer free initial consultations to discuss the specifics of your case. If you are looking to order a lawyer who has literally saved lives in the courtroom, contact the Law Office of Stephen L. Richards. Do not gamble with your freedom; hire a defender with a proven history of winning the unwinnable. 📞🔓
Specializing In
Murder Defense, Criminal Appeals, Post-Conviction Relief
Address & Location
Located in the bustling Loop district of downtown Chicago, just steps away from historic Printers Row.
Building Location
The office is located inside the legendary, landmark Monadnock Building, a masterpiece of late 19th-century commercial architecture. It is easily found near local favorites like Intelligentsia Coffee and The Berghoff Restaurant.
Suite Access
Enter the historic lobby of the Monadnock Building, make your way to the main elevators, and take one to the 7th floor to reach the office in Suite 756. The building features full wheelchair accessibility.
Parking Details
Convenient paid parking is available nearby at public surface lots, including the Park 1 lot, as well as multiple municipal parking garages throughout the area.
Public Transit
Served by Chicago Transit Authority Route Blue Line (O’Hare-bound); nearest stop is at Jackson Station.
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