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#1 CHICAGO Domestic Violence Lawyer

In Illinois, only the State's Attorney drops charges. Not the victim. You need a lawyer working on your side today

You’re facing a charge that stays on your record permanently if it sticks. Illinois courts move fast. We’ve defended 565+ cases in Cook County and we know how prosecutors build these cases. Let’s start building your defense today.

565+ Cases

Successfully Defended

10+ Years

Standing Strong In Court

100% Focus

On Criminal Defense

7 Days

Availability in Chicago

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Client Testimonials Online

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Review Response Time

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Costs Or Surprise Charges

The charge won't disappear on its own. Every day without a lawyer is a day the prosecution gets further ahead

Domestic violence convictions in Illinois can’t be expunged or sealed. An order of protection may already be keeping you out of your home. Your name is attached to a charge that, if it sticks, stays on your record permanently. DRD Law, LLC has defended 565+ cases in Cook County. We know exactly how the prosecution builds these cases, and we know how to take them apart. Let’s talk before your next court date.

Every case has a defense strategy

The defenses available to you depend on the facts of your case. We examine every detail before the prosecution builds its argument.

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

If you used reasonable force to prevent an attack, that's a recognized legal defense in Illinois. We document the circumstances and present the full picture to the court.

Lack of Evidence

The state must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence doesn't meet that bar, we challenge it before and during trial.

False Allegations

Accusations made during contentious divorces or custody disputes aren't always truthful. We investigate inconsistencies in the alleged victim's account and present them to the court.

Accidental Injury

Intent matters in criminal law. If the injury wasn't intentional, that's a material fact. We build the record that shows the event wasn't criminal conduct.
David R. Drwencke

David R. Drwencke

Founding Partner & Lead Defense Attorney

David Drwencke focuses exclusively on criminal defense. Before founding DRD Law, LLC in December 2020, he served as a Judicial Law Clerk, observing hundreds of trials and arguments across the bench.

That experience directly shapes how he builds defense strategies today. Admitted to the Illinois Bar, Michigan Bar, D.C. Bar, Eastern District of Michigan, and Northern District of Illinois (Federal). Graduate of University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.

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Five-star defense for clients who refused to give up

Round tree
★★★★★
DRD Law, LLC is a great law firm Get with David Drwencke he can help you with your problems.
Marissa Stege
★★★★★
Mr Drwencke and the DRD Law firm were extensively professional and helpful from the very start of my case, and Mr Drwencke was very responsive to any questions I had.
Miguel Moreno
★★★★★
Mr. Drwencke is the type of person who really has a passion for his cases and ensures the best possible outcome for his clients and is very honest and sincere with them.
Hamp Adams
★★★★★
DRD Law is the most professional lawyer in all of Chicago. When i thought I was lost and felt helpless with my case, David help me and represented me. He is very professional and charismatic.
Cherissa Thurman
★★★★★
David is currently handing my sisters case, and he and his team are doing an amazing job. I'm really appreciative of all that he has done for me and my family. Thank you! So if you need a lawyer look no further David's got your back😊🥰
Maritza Lopez
★★★★★
David is the best choice for an attorney to represent you. He is extremely kind and very knowledgeable. He will answer any questions you have and help you feel at ease during your legal process. He is very personable and down to earth and will get you the outcome you want. 10/10 recommend!!
Tony G
★★★★★
David is the man. Couldn’t recommend him enough. I never really had legal issues previously, thus I was somewhat worried and anxious. David made me feel comfortable and stress-free, while helping me understand each possible outcome of my situation, which was resolved very quickly. Will definitely reach out to David in the future if needed. Thanks!
Alex Cortez
★★★★★
Helped me a lot great service would recommend 100%.

3 Steps from today to a defense strategy

You call or submit the form

Contact us by phone or fill out the form below. Our team will handle all first contacts and makes sure your information stays confidential. There's no charge for the initial consultation and no commitment required.

We review your case with you

We review the details of your arrest, any orders of protection issued, and the charges filed. We'll let you know exactly where your case stands, what the prosecution is likely to argue, and what defense options apply to your situation.

We build your defense before your first court date

Most domestic violence cases move fast. We start building your defense immediately, challenging evidence, reviewing police reports, and preparing arguments before the prosecution gets further ahead. Your first court appearance is not the time to figure this out.

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Don't wait. The first 48 hours matter most.

Tell us what happened. We’ll review your case and get back to you the same day. All consultations are free and confidential.

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What you need to know before hiring a domestic violence lawyer in Chicago

What does a domestic violence lawyer do after an arrest in Chicago?

After an arrest, a domestic violence lawyer reviews the charges, any orders of protection issued, and the evidence the prosecution is building. The first 24 hours are critical. Your lawyer works to protect your rights before your first court appearance and starts building a defense strategy from day one.

No. In Illinois, only the State’s Attorney decides whether to drop charges, not the alleged victim. Even if the victim wants the case dropped, prosecution can continue. A domestic violence lawyer’s job is to work directly with the prosecution and present arguments for dismissal or reduced charges.

Yes. A domestic violence conviction in Illinois can’t be expunged or sealed regardless of legal representation. That’s why fighting the charge with an experienced domestic violence lawyer before a conviction is the only option. Once it’s on your record, it stays.

Look for someone who focuses exclusively on criminal defense and has direct experience in Cook County courts. Ask about their experience with domestic violence cases specifically, how they handle orders of protection, and whether they’re available from the moment of arrest, not just during business hours.

Still have questions? Call 312-778-6035