In the last three months of 2011, police official records showed a rise in the number of homicides in the city of Chicago, a trend that has continued into the first month of 2012 as well. Compared to January of last year, homicide rates in the city have risen considerably. In fact, police Superintendent G. McCarthy reported that the rise reflects a jump of more than 50%.

The upward trend in homicide rates seems to stand alone, as homicides were the only category of crimes that increased in the initial month of 2012. According to police reports, a 20% decrease was seen in the city's overall crime rates. City officials such as the mayor have connected the increase in Chicago's homicide crime rates with its growing number of gangs.

The penalties of a murder/manslaughter conviction are harsh and could land defendants in jail for years, and in some cases, for the duration of their life. These are serious charges that carry equally serious consequences. As such, an arrest for murder or an accusation of manslaughter needs to be met with immediate legal attention from a Chicago criminal lawyer. At The Law Offices of Howard J. Wise & Associates, defendants can get the aggressive legal attention they both need and deserve after an arrest and allegation have been made.

Throughout Chicago and its surrounding areas, we represent those in need of criminal defense. The rise in homicide rates within the city will naturally mean that there will be a simultaneous rise in the need for an attorney as well. If you are looking for vehement legal representation that you can rely on for unwavering support, then look no further than our firm.

Contact a Chicago criminal attorney from our offices today for more information.