The Premier Criminal Defense Firm of Central Illinois


Chat Live
About UsLearn More
Contact Us
The Premier Criminal Defense Firm of Central Illinois
Chat Live
About UsLearn More
Contact Us

Champaign-Urbana Criminal Defense Lawyers

Bruno Law Offices is the premier criminal and DUI defense firm of Central Illinois. We have been serving clients in Champaign-Urbana and Central Illinois since 1980. Our lawyers have successfully defended thousands of serious cases in the state and federal courts, including cases covered by the national and international media.

The Champaign-Urbana criminal defense attorneys at Bruno Law Offices are among an elite class of criminal practitioners experienced in handling the highest level felonies, including death penalty qualified crimes. Your case may be the most stressful issue you have ever faced. Our attorneys understand that, and will do whatever it takes to secure the best outcome possible.

Our law firm understands that each case is unique. Our attorneys are focused on providing each client with the personalized legal services he or she requires. For more than 35 years we have helped good people overcome great challenges. More than just a law firm, we are a crisis management team. Put us to work for you today. Call (217) 328-6000.

Meet the Attorneys of Bruno Law Offices

Anthony Bruno
Evan Bruno

Our Practice Areas

Violent Crime

A criminal charge of any sort can have serious impacts on your life. Not only will you face the immediate consequences of fines or jail time, but you may also experience future repercussions such as inability to rent an apartment or be approved for a loan. Offenses against other individuals – such as assault and battery – can be particularly damaging.
Learn more

Criminal Defense

Criminal charges can potentially ruin lives if they are not fought successfully. The Champaign criminal defense lawyers of the Bruno Law Offices have dedicated their practice to helping you defend your reputation, property, and freedom when facing criminal charges. We have handled over 100 jury trials for criminal cases in the Champaign-Urbana area and throughout central Illinois, so we’re well-equipped to fight for your rights.Criminal charges can potentially ruin lives if they are not fought successfully. The Champaign criminal defense lawyers of the Bruno Law Offices have dedicated their practice to helping you defend your reputation, property, and freedom when facing criminal charges. We have handled over 100 jury trials for criminal cases in the Champaign-Urbana area and throughout central Illinois, so we’re well-equipped to fight for your rights.
Learn more

Cocaine Possession

Each year, the United States government spends billions of dollars to combat the growing drug trafficking epidemic. In their haste to end the movement and distribution of illegal substances, law enforcement often pushes the legal boundaries outlined in the Constitution, especially the Fourth Amendment. If you or a loved one were recently indicted of a drug crime, such as the possession, trafficking, distribution, or manufacturing of cocaine, you should seek legal counsel to ensure your rights are protected.
Learn more

Battery

A criminal charge of any sort can have serious impacts on your life. Not only will you face the immediate consequences of fines or jail time, but you may also experience future repercussions such as inability to rent an apartment or be approved for a loan. Offenses against other individuals – such as assault and battery – can be particularly damaging.
Learn more

Felony Offenses

Facing a felony charge can be extremely stressful for you and your loved ones. You may face probation, imprisonment, and the lifelong penalties that come with being a convicted felon. In this distressing time, you need the security of having the best possible legal team on your side. Since 1980, the felony defense attorneys of Bruno Law Offices have helped people accused of crimes in Champaign-Urbana fight against serious felony charges and retain their freedom.
Learn more

International Students and Visiting Persons

For nearly four decades, the experienced criminal defense attorneys of Bruno Law Offices have fought hard on behalf of international students and people who are visiting from other countries. We have helped countless students at the University of Illinois and other colleges fight criminal allegations brought by the state, as well as student conduct charges brought in the course of university disciplinary proceedings.
Learn more

Traffic Violations

Although petty traffic tickets are punishable by a fine only, all criminal traffic violations are punishable by jail time. Common criminal traffic violations include speeding more than 26 miles per hour over the limit (known as “aggravated speeding”), driving on a suspended or revoked license, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to notify of a property damage accident, and reckless driving. If you are ticketed for a criminal traffic violation, you will be required to appear personally in court.
Learn more

Gun Crimes

Gun control laws in Illinois are far more restrictive than those in other parts of the country. Illegal firearm possession charges are extremely serious allegations that can have devastating effects on all aspects of a person’s life, and it is imperative that anyone facing gun possession charges in Illinois meets these accusations with appropriately aggressive legal attention.
Learn more

Conspiracy

Individuals who engaged in the planning or assisted in the execution of a crime may be held responsible even if they were not the primarily guilty party. According to the Illinois penal code, a person who has come to terms or agreed with another on the commission of an offense, with intent to commit the offense, may be charged with conspiracy. While conspiracy charges are incredibly dense and often difficult to deal with, a Champaign conspiracy attorney will evaluate the case against you and work towards a reduction or altogether elimination of your charges.
Learn more

Drug Charges

Were you arrested or charged with a drug crime in Illinois? Are you unsure of what to do next? If so, contact the Champaign criminal defense lawyers at Bruno Law Offices. We’ll stand by your side and guide you through the legal process.
Learn more

Heroin Possession

Possession of a controlled substance, such as heroin, is a felony offense in the state of Illinois. While felonies are serious crimes that tend to be accompanied by life-changing penalties, it is important to not lose heart if you are facing charges of this nature. By working with an experienced drug possession defense attorney, you may be able to have these charges reduced in severity, or possibly even dropped altogether.
Learn more

Driving Suspended/Revoked

Sometimes, life can get ahead of you. When you find yourself caught up in work and taking care of your children, it can be easy to forget to renew your driver’s license. Typically, you will receive a renewal notification months before your license actually expires. This gives you plenty of time to put off the task of renewing and eventually forget about it altogether. Unfortunately, you might not realize that you forgot to renew your driver’s license until you are caught with an expired license and are facing harsh penalties.
Learn more

Home Invasion

Home invasion charges will be pursued as Class X felony offenses by prosecutors in Champaign-Urbana who are likely to seek the maximum penalties available to them by law. Bearing that in mind, you will need to begin taking all necessary precautions to defend yourself and your future while you still have the opportunity to do just that.
Learn more

Police Interviews

Police often call people they suspect of committing a criminal offense and ask them to come into the station so that they can give investigators their side of the story. Do not be fooled; police use this opportunity to catch suspects without an attorney so that they can draw out a confession and make an arrest right then and there. Bearing this in mind, you need to have your attorney with you if you agree to be interviewed by the police about a criminal offense.
Learn more

Sex Offenses

Our legal system treats sex offenses as extremely serious crimes. Neither society nor the law tolerates these crimes, so offenders oftentimes receive very harsh legal and social penalties. Being charged with a sex crime can be extremely frightening because of the many ramifications one will experience if convicted. However, if you’re facing a sex crimes charge, you have the right to defend yourself. You have a right to build your case and present the evidence to the jury.
Learn more

Theft & Burglary

Being charged with theft or burglary is no small issue, and it can be a much more significant issue than you first thought depending on the details. With these charges, it can be easy to feel as if you’ve already been convicted before getting the chance to defend yourself. On a personal level, these charges may be impacting your life because your friends and loved ones no longer trust you. And while it may seem like a good idea, fighting these cases on your own typically leads to more complications.
Learn more

Child Pornography

Because of the nature of this offense, Illinois prosecutors often zealously seek punishment to the full extent of the law for those charged with the possession or distribution of child pornography. Likewise, the stigma attached to accusations like this may result in a jury and prosecution that are biased against you from the start. This is why it is so critical to enlist the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney in Champaign who understands the best strategies of defense against charges like this.
Learn more

Marijuana Possession

If you were arrested or charged with marijuana possession and need a strong legal defense, contact the Champaign criminal defense lawyers at Bruno Law Offices immediately. It’s a serious matter to be accused of a drug crime, and you may be looking at jail time and expensive fines. An arrest may also impact your job, your education options, opportunities for financial aid, and more. We will advocate for your rights and fight for your freedom.
Learn more

Methamphetamine

Being arrested on methamphetamine possession charges is a serious and intense situation for any person. Many people fear these kinds of charges due to the number of life-altering consequences that could accompany a conviction. However, a person facing a methamphetamine charge does not have to feel hopeless or without options, as a skilled attorney may be able to help.
Learn more

Federal Offenses

Federal offenses are much more serious than state-level offenses and the penalties much greater. Coming under federal investigation or grand-jury indictment is a life-altering event for any person. If you have been charged with a federal offense, the single most important step you can take is retaining a highly qualified and experienced Champaign-Urbana federal criminal defense team as early in the process as possible. For nearly forty years, the attorneys of Bruno Law Offices have provided strategic, high-level defense to individuals charged with federal offenses.
Learn more

Homicide & Murder Charges

A murder occurs when an individual kills another person with malice aforethought or the knowledge that this course of action will surely end in death. Murder in Illinois can be a crime of passion or a premeditated event. If you have been charged with murder, then you may face a very serious and life-stopping felony conviction and may spend anywhere between 4 years to life in prison, with a possibility of receiving the death penalty.
Learn more

Resisting a peace officer

These days, even small interactions with police officers can turn frightening very quickly, and Champaign residents who feel threatened by aggressive officers of the law may be compelled to resist or run away. Unfortunately, any action that can be viewed as a person trying to get away from or avoid a peace officer who is acting in an official capacity may be labeled as resisting arrest or obstructing justice by a prosecutor. If the accused’s actions result in the injury or death of an officer, he or she may face inflated penalties.
Learn more

White collar crimes

While white collar crimes do not include violent or dangerous crimes, they are often penalized in a similar way. Punishments for white collar crimes can be expensive and life altering in various ways, even though this particular type of criminal activity does not involve violence or activities that put people in immediate physical danger. Specifically, penalties for charges such as these can negatively affect employment opportunities and various aspects of an individual’s personal life, making it difficult to fully recover if convicted.
Learn more

Serving Champaign, Ford, Douglas, Piatt, McLean, Coles and other Counties

Real Client Reviews

Cathy

I am very pleased with Mr Bruno. Not only is he a nice man, he is a very good lawyer. He is truly concerned about his clients. He is in constant communication about everything that he says or does. If you need a lawyer, Mr Bruno is your man. I highly recommend him.

Evelyn

Thomas Bruno was very helpful and I would definitely recommend him! He talked me through the steps that needed to be taken for my case. Very informative and answered any questions I had. If anyone is looking for a great attorney, Thomas Bruno would be the one!

Anon

Mr. Tom Bruno was crucial in getting a case that I was involved in dismissed, and his immense experience in the courtroom was evident throughout the process.

Any legal issue is a stressful process, and the peace of mind of knowing that you have a fantastic lawyer is priceless. This was my first experience with the legal system, and Mr. Bruno made sure to keep me informed of every step of the way. I would highly recommend Mr. Tom Bruno to anyone who is in need of legal assistance.

Anon

I met with Mr. Bruno and explained my situation, he was blunt with me about my options and gave me an honest opinion on how we would proceed. I was extremely happy with how everything was handled and my outcome. If your facing charges of any kind, I highly recommend Mr. Bruno and his team.

Mike

Great to work with. Explained every aspect of case in great detail. Did everything that was promised plus alot more. Mr. Bruno went above and beyond in my case. I would recommend him to anyone one who asked me.

See Client Testimonials

Hundreds of jury trials. Thousands of serious cases.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony, you absolutely need an attorney to help you navigate the tricky legal waters. You also shouldn’t trust just any attorney to handle your case. While an assigned public defender may have good intentions when taking your case, keep in mind they are often overloaded with cases and may not be able to give your case the attention it truly deserves. Inexperienced attorneys may agree to take your case and may seem enthusiastic about representing you, but at the end of the day, you need an attorney who has handled these cases before and knows how to present the best possible defense on your behalf.

The team at Bruno Law Offices understands the fear and uncertainty that naturally follow in the wake of an arrest. You may be fearful about your future, your job, and how you will take care of your family with charges hanging over your head. When you work with us, we will take the burden of defending your livelihood and reputation off your hands. We will handle the paperwork, will make the required court appearances, and will guide you through the process of preserving your freedom and clearing your name. We’ve protected good people facing prosecution in Champaign-Urbana for nearly four decades now, and we’re committed to helping you with your case. There is no fee to call us, so contact us today.

Why Choose Bruno Law Offices?

Through our four decades-long service to the Illinois community, our firm has a well-earned reputation for excellence when it comes to defending people just like you against criminal allegations. We have seen thousands of cases through and have earned the trust and respect of our clients. Here are just a few examples of cases we have handled for individuals in Champaign-Urbana:

  • Facing felony drug charges and alleged participation in a central Illinois drug ring, the clients’ sentence was whittled down to only four years; the client will most likely spend no time in prison due to an agreement with the Attorney General’s office.
  • Facing a DUI case, a private investigator was brought in and together we heavily scrutinized the security footage and witness testimony. The case was dropped by the State.
  • Facing the consequences of a 3rd DUI arrest, the team at Bruno Law Offices was able to negotiate to get the charges completely dismissed.
  • When felony manufacturing and distribution charges were issued against our client, we were able to build an aggressive defense and got ready for trial. The prosecutor decided to drop all charges against our client.

These are just a sample of the many cases we have handled on behalf of our clients, who trust us like so many others in Champaign-Urbana have trusted us to handle their criminal case. We will diligently research the facts of your case and will aggressively prepare for trial if necessary on your behalf.

Don’t let the fact that you’ve been arrested leave you paralyzed with fear. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Bruno Law Offices to get started on your defense and prepare to fight the charges against you. We’re ready to help you today.

Criminal Charges in Champaign-Urbana

Our criminal defense attorneys are well equipped to handle a wide spectrum of cases. Our practice areas include:

Driving Under Influence of Alcohol

DUI

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, turn to the team that has helped countless people just like you in Champaign-Urbana. We will work to have the charges against you reduced or dropped altogether.
Traffic Violations

Traffic Violations

Speeding tickets, reckless driving, driving on an expired license, and other traffic violations can be a costly nuisance. We are prepared to help you fight the violations you have been charged with.
Gun Crimes

Gun Crimes

If you have been charged with a crime involving a weapon and especially a gun, you may be facing serious penalties, including incarceration. We are prepared to mount an aggressive defense on your behalf, so contact us today.
Cocaine Possession

Cocaine Possession

If you are charged with possession or distribution of a controlled substance like cocaine, you need to build a strong defense to protect your livelihood and your freedom. We have experience helping people in your exact situation, so contact us to get started on your case.
Sex Offenses

Sex Offenses

Being charged with a sex crime can have a lasting effect on your ability to work and your reputation. Do not let allegations like these ruin your life. We’re prepared to stand up for you and defend you in your time of need.
Theft & Burglary

Theft & Burglary

Our theft and burglary attorneys understand what it takes to present a strong defense on your behalf. We have helped other good people in Champaign-Urbana battle charges just like these and preserved their freedom.
Heroin Possession

Heroin Possession

Heroin is a controlled substance that is often taken very seriously by arresting officers and the courts. That’s why it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side if you are facing charges of possession, manufacture, or distribution of this substance.
Homicide & Murder Charges

Homicide & Murder Charges

Murder charges carry a weight that few other criminal charges carry, and it is essential to immediately hire an attorney to mount an aggressive defense to protect your freedom.
Methamphetamine Possession

Methamphetamine Possession

Methamphetamines have been a focus of state and federal law enforcement in recent years, and as such, they have become more aggressive with arresting individuals suspected of using and distributing the substance. If you are facing methamphetamine charges, don’t wait to call us to help you today.
White Collar Crimes

White Collar Crimes

We have extensive experience helping good people like you who have been charged with a white-collar crime, from tax fraud to investment fraud, and others.
Driving Suspended/Revoked

Driving Suspended/Revoked

If you have been apprehended for driving with a suspended or revoked license, contact us today to discuss how we can help you retain your driving privileges.
Battery

Battery

If you have been charged with battery, only an experienced criminal defense attorney should be brought in to protect your rights and fight on your behalf in court. Contact the team at Bruno Law Offices to speak to a qualified battery attorney.
Conspiracy

Conspiracy

People are often unfamiliar with how conspiracy charges can be brought against them and how to defend against these allegations. Let the team at Bruno Law Offices help you and develop a successful defense against the charges.
Home Invasion

Home Invasion

Home invasion charges are often considered a Class X felony and can come with heavy penalties in Illinois. By consulting an experienced member of our legal team, we can construct an aggressive defense to defend your future.
Resisting A Peace Officer

Resisting A Peace Officer

The team at Bruno Law Offices know that in today’s climate, interactions with law enforcement can be intimidating and politically-charged. We are prepared to help you fight against resisting a peace officer charges in Champaign-Urbana.
Child Pornography

Child Pornography

We understand that child pornography charges carry a social stigma and especially zealous attention from prosecutors, so we are prepared to help you aggressively defend yourself against such allegations.
Police Interviews

Police Interviews

If you have been contacted by the police for an interview, it is essential to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Don’t be fooled, the police may be looking to get a confession out of you if you speak to them without an attorney present.
Marijuana Possession

Marijuana Possession

In Illinois, marijuana has been legal for adult recreational use since January 2020. However, there are strict laws in place regarding how much marijuana you can have, who you can buy it from, and where you can use it. We understand the laws associated with marijuana possession, and we’ll work to ensure you’re not wrongfully convicted of a drug offense.

The Champaign-Urbana Criminal Defense Lawyers of Bruno Law Offices Will Fight For You

The attorneys at Bruno Law Offices provide aggressive and effective defense for people charged with crimes in Champaign-Urbana. For more than four decades, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the best legal defense. There is no fee to call us for a consultation, and we will help you understand your legal options. Email us through our contact form, chat live on our website, or call us at (217) 328-6000 today. The difference between hiring the right attorney and the wrong attorney is the most significant decision made in a criminal case. Be sure you are represented by the best.

Excellent Service

Your initial consultation with us is always free of charge and can easily be arranged with one quick phone call or email. We strive to return your phone call or email immediately - during normal business hours or otherwise. Being available to you, our clients, is just part of our commitment to delivering excellent service.

If you are facing prosecution for a criminal or DUI charge in the Champaign-Urbana area or elsewhere in East Central Illinois, we are here to help. The Champaign-Urbana criminal defense attorneys of the Bruno Law Offices can protect you and your rights in court. Contact us today at (217) 328-6000 to schedule your initial consultation.