WEAPONS

Weapons crimes are typically charged as Unlawful Use of a Weapon, commonly abbreviated, UUW. The word “use” is misleading and often confusing. For purposes of the law, “use” also means to possess.

Possession is not limited to a weapon carried on your person. The weapon can be in the trunk of a car, somewhere within reach, or in or about a home, for example.

There are numerous types of UUW crimes. Being a felon is possession of a weapon is common. Aggravated UUW is also very common and confusing. This crime does not imply the weapon was used as one might think. But rather usually means the weapon was carried outside of a home, such as in a car or on the body while walking down the street.   

Much like drug crimes, the felony classes for weapons crimes can be raised if aggravating factors are present such as possessing a firearm in or near a school, or in a place where alcoholic beverages are sold, such as a bar.

Other weapons crimes include: reckless discharge of a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and aggravated battery with a firearm.

There are a few UUW crimes that are misdemeanors. Most aggravated UUW cases in Chicago are Class 4 felonies. Being a felon in possession of a handgun is usually either a Class 2 or Class 3 felony depending on criminal background.