Licensed for 19 years

State IL

Acquired 2003

Status
Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Michael D. Cheronis

Criminal defense Attorney at Chicago, IL

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Exemplary Attorney

When a family member with an extensive background found himself facing a felony charge that carries imprisonment for a significant amount of years, I new that we needed an attorney who would be willing to take on the grand challenge. My research and background lead me to Michael Cheronis! From the retaining through the date of conviction Attorney Cheronis was aggressive in the court room. I knew we were in good hands when the judge himself said in court to another defendant who’s lawyer didn’t show up, “you need a Mike Cheronis in your corner.” He himself handles the case and puts together a reasonable action plan. He is professional and thoughtful when speaking to family members. The outcome of our case speaks volumes!

An excellent attorney

Michael Cheronis was like a proverbial sign of providence for me when I was wrongly accused of sexual harassment. He was recommended by a colleague of mine and every word of her recommendation proved right. He is not only knowledgeable, dynamic and sharp but also always fighting for truth. His experienced manner of responding to my phone calls and email inquiries had a positive impact on my devastated self. I was cleared of any violation of the policy. Clearly, he is the best attorney in town. Anonymous

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

70%

19 years
Education

20%

Title IX Defense

9 years
Civil rights

10%

11 years

Facing the reality of a criminal prosecution is frightening. Having the right lawyer makes all the difference. Simply put, Michael Cheronis is the right lawyer. As a former Chicago felony prosecutor and a seasoned defense attorney, Mr. Cheronis possesses the expertise and the experience necessary to provide exceptional counsel and the best possible results.

Communication is key throughout the criminal process. Keeping his clients informed of everything – from pre-trial negotiation with prosecutors through trial strategies and techniques – is the benchmark of Mr. Cheronis’ defense strategies. No one knows what happened, or didn’t happen, better than the accused client.

Using aggressive, effective pre-trial and trial strategies, Mr. Cheronis has successfully defended thousands of Illinois citizens charged with crimes. He represents clients charged with drug offenses, DUI, violent crimes, sex crimes, and white collar crimes. From the initiation of a criminal investigation through trial and sometimes beyond, Mr. Cheronis will personally handle each and every aspect of your matter.

Mr. Cheronis will work for and with you to establish a solid defense and protect your rights. Only with a creative and determined attorney like Mr. Cheronis can you be certain that your rights will be protected. He has obtained successful verdicts for his clients in hundreds of cases throughout Chicago and Cook County.

Contact Michael

Law Office of Michael D. Cheronis

(833) 775-2422 Office

2502 N. Clark St.

Chicago, IL, 60614

mdcchicagocriminaldefense.com

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

109 customer reviews

5 Star

97%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | June 21, 2023

Exemplary Attorney

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Posted by anonymous | June 8, 2023

An excellent attorney

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Posted by Nawal | April 26, 2023

Best criminal defense lawyer

Michael is the best criminal defense attorney. I am a fellow attorney not practicing in the area of criminal defense. I referred my client to Michael. He was very responsive, professional, forthcoming, trustworthy and extremely knowledgeable. Very impressive during cross examination and during the entire trial process . I would not recommend any other criminal defense attorney but Michael. He comes highly recommended. Much respect to you Michael. Outcome was a not guilty verdict.

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Posted by Jamie | March 3, 2023

To Those Consider Michael Cheronis

I would recommend Michael to anyone considering his service. He handled a criminal matter for me, and I couldn't have hoped for a better outcome. I will share the highlights in working with Michael, but I want to start with a quip from a court date that I think sums up Michael's reputation in Chicago. There was a court date when the Judge said hello to Michael Cheronis and then commented, "It must be All-Star Day today," which tells me many other lawyers and judges know and respect Michael's skills as an attorney. When it came to my case, he kept me as calm as I could be through a very draining experience. Texts, emails, calls, were responded to in a professional timeframe. He explained different options and the likely outcomes. Michael also took time to explain the best strategy forward to family members that were concerned for me. I asked him and gave him permission to do that. I can't imagine that was fun to do over & over again, but he helped me tremendously. I'll end this review where I started it... I couldn't have hoped for a better outcome. I'd recommend him to anyone in need of his services because I know he will steer you in the best direction for your circumstances.

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Posted by Daniel | February 2, 2023

Excellent job

When I trail it seamed to me the judge and prosecutor were on the same team and mike fought threw it and won the case. He even got an email from one of the jurors saying he did a great defending me and I shouldn’t been charged.

Posted by Richard | December 11, 2022

Top-notch Criminal Defense Attorney!!!

I hired Mr. Cheronis because I was falsely accused of a domestic battery by my ex-girlfriend. Mr. Cheronis was responsive and honest with me from the start. He returned calls and emails promptly and kept me informed. He took the matter to trial. His trial preparation and strategy was sound and I was found not guilty. I was fortunate to have Mr. Cheronis fighting for me and I would recommend him to anyone seeking a great criminal defense attorney.

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Posted by Carlos | October 18, 2022

EXCELLENT LAWYER

Mike is the best attorney ever. Five years ago, I found out I had a 30 year old warrant due to identity theft. I hired a couple of local attorneys prior to Michael and they were not able to help me, they wanted me to come to Chicago and straight to the police station and all they did was to take my money. I contacted Michael and he was able to squashed the warrant within a couple of months. I recomend Michael with my eyes closed. Thank you Michael!!

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Posted by Z. | September 23, 2022

I Thought My Life was Over

When I received official correspondence from the OCC I was worried. When I read what it said I knew I needed a lawyer asap. I contacted a different attorney that put me in touch with Mr. Cheronis. Best thing that could have happened for me. He contacted them and discovered what the issue was and was always prompt in getting back to me and keeping me informed. Once I retained him for a more than fair price he told me the game plan and we got to work. I did exactly what he asked of me which allowed him to do what he does best. The matter was settled completely. COMPLETELY DISMISSED. I was at risk of losing everything that I hold dear, my means of taking care of my family, my self respect, and my standing in my community. I felt that it would be very difficult to recover from that. I'm so blessed to have had Mr. Cheronis for my attorney and if you hire him I'm confident that you'll feel the same way to.

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Posted by Claudia sulaiman | September 20, 2022

Professional lawyer

My family and I recently retained Mr. Cheronis as our attorney and during that time he has been nothing but cordial and professional. In comparison to prior Attorney’s that we engaged with, Mr. Cheronis has given us hope and has maintained a positive attitude. We can't thank Mr. Cheronis enough.

Posted by Charles | July 8, 2022

Top of his game

Mr Cheronis represented me in a battery case. He was upfront and honest with me on my options and fought for me through each step. He was very knowledgeable with my case and the steps to get my charges dismissed. Very happy I chose him. You will be too!

Posted by Roxanne | June 26, 2022

No Nonsense!

Hiring an attorney from a state with which you aren't familiar can be daunting. But I trusted Avvo to help me find the attorney we needed. We were fortunate to find Mike, even more fortunate that he was willing to take our case. Make no mistake, he will not waste your time or money on frivolous conversation or actions. He got right to the point, and did everything in his power to bring a satisfactory resolution to our case. Even though I was out of state, he was timely with his communications and requests for documentation/follow-up info. If you are looking for someone with knowledge of the law and criminal defense, Mike's your man. His services are worth every dollar we paid.

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Posted by Heaven | June 25, 2022

Incredibly Talented Attorney

As a person who has had a number of run ins with the law and hired many talented attorneys for various reasons, my experience being represented by Michael Cheronis was by far the most impressive. When I reached out to him, I was facing a laundry list of crimes - half of which were violent felonies and all of which were clearly recorded on camera. Based on the circumstances of these crimes, it was possible that I could’ve faced up to a decade in prison. As soon as I reached out to him, I found him to be understanding, compassionate, and knowledgeable. For a year, he expertly guided me through Chicago’s complex and intimidating legal system which ultimately resulted in all of my charges being reduced to misdemeanors. Through his hard work, he accomplished something I didn’t believe to be remotely possible and exceeeded my expectations for the outcome of my case in every single way. Hiring Michael Cheronis as an attorney has completely changed the trajectory of my life for the better and I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.

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Posted by anonymous | May 25, 2022

Title IX - Not Guilty!

Michael was extremely communicative and guided me through the entire process. He always had an answer to any of my questions and was able to prepare an effective strategy. He made sure to keep me prepared throughout the entire situation. I would highly recommend him to anyone thinking of hiring him.

Posted by anonymous | May 5, 2022

Title IX Defense

Michael is an honest godsend. He helped me through my defense every step of the way, and knew how to handle every situation that came our way, eventually helping me clear my name. If you want someone who will meticulously work to find you justice and to find the truth, and whose work ethic will show in his preparedness, there’s no reason to look any further than Michael.

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Posted by Jamal | March 29, 2022

Charged with a DUI

I was driving through chicago and I received a dui and I contacted Mike right away. For over a year and a half I’ve watched him tried relentlessly to put me in a better situation. Though the outcome was as expected he put my well-being as a priority and for that I applaud him. Definitely a no bs attorney. He gets straight to the point and gives you the pros and cons of your situation. Highly recommend!

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Posted by Garcia | January 20, 2022

2022 Review

I hired Mike in the summer of 2021 for a case that i had received in Downtown Chicago. I reached out to Mike and he got back to me immediately. Mike handled my case extremely well with superb communication through out the entire process, comforting confidence and seasoned knowledge which reassured me of outcome a positive outcome. That very outcome unfolding today as Mike had explained to me months ago. I would highly recommend.

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Posted by Jesus | December 15, 2021

Case dismissed!!!

I was considering taking an offer from the state, Michael convinced me to the case, it was dismissed. He is no nonsense, extremely knowledgeable, weighs out all your options, and was prepared to throw down for me from day 1. Saved me a lot of grief , time, and money had I gone any other route. Thanks Michael!!!

Posted by anonymous | November 28, 2021

Excellent Lawyer

Michael is an excellent Lawyer. He is very professional and knowledgeable. He is very competent and to the point. He never missed a scheduled meeting and he always took my calls. When I asked questions, he always answered them clearly and thoroughly. Michael is good at explaining and communicating. He is a very good lawyer. I appreciate all his help. I like to recommend Michael, because he is an excellent lawyer and very professional and knowledgeable.

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Posted by Josh | November 16, 2021

Case Dismissed

Mike lead me every step of the way towards getting an old case dismissed. He was very thorough and responsive throughout the entire three month process. I had to do my part to give us the best chance for success and Mike knew exactly where to point me. He was extremely prepared and confident and that made the emotional side of the process so much easier. I would recommend Mike to anyone!

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Posted by anonymous | September 23, 2021

Title IX Success

I hired Mike to represent me for a Title IX case at the University of Illinois and I could have not asked for someone better to represent me. The case went to a full hearing that lasted multiple days. Mike's communication was phenomenal throughout the entire process and whenever I contacted him with anything he would respond quickly with a concise and efficient response. He helped me understand the process and guided me each step of the way, he was extremely knowledgeable on the procedures of Title IX. His ability to cross examine the complainant and witnesses were crucial to this case as he was able to bring to light the facts and ultimately lead the University to conclude that I was not in violation of the Title IX Student Code. I am so grateful to have worked with Mike and I would recommend his services to anyone in need of a Title IX case attorney.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.8 (Excellent)

Work Experience

Principal Attorney
Law Office of Micael D. Cheronis
2010 - Present

Assistant State's Attorney
Cook County State's Attorneys Office
2003 - 2010

Law Clerk
Schueler, Dallavo & Casieri, LLC
2002 - 2003

Law Clerk
Cook County State's Attorneys Office
2001 - 2003

View all work experience

Education

Loyola University School of Law
J.D.
2003

University of Illinois
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1998

Fenwick High School
1994

Legal Cases

People v. D.B
Charges dismissed.

G.G v. City of Blue Island
Financial settlement

People v. S.H.
Not Guilty

View all legal cases

Associations

Chicago Bar Association
Member
2010 - Present

Fenwick Bar Association
Member
2010 - Present

Languages Spoken

English

Publications

State's Attorney Memo
DUI and the Fourth Amendment Overview
2004

Loyola Law Student's Magazine
The Personal Injury Attorney
2002

Speaking Engagements

Trial Team
Trial Advocacy
2013

Trial Team
The Grand Jury
2012

DUI Primer Conference
DUI and the Fourth Amendment
2010

DUI Primer Conference
DUI
2009

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (11)

Given (9)

Endorse Michael

James Kassir

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mike is an aggressive and intelligent attorney. His knowledge of the law is second to none. His clients and fellow attorneys respect him."

Michael Schmiege

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 25
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Cheronis has the knowledge, the experience, and the wisdom to provide for his clients the best representation possible. He is a supremely skilled advocate - an extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community."

Matthew Prengaman

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an excellent attorney who will work tirelessly for each and every one of his clients. He is extremely knowledgeable and willing to do whatever it takes for his clients and will achieve the best result possible for them."

Andrew Weisberg

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have know attorney Michael Cheronis for several years. He gained great experience as a Cook County prosecutor. These days he provides top level criminal defense for people in Cook County and elsewhere. Mike is one of the smarter and more talented lawyers I know. He fights hard, prepares well and gets great results. I would recommend Mike without hesitation."

Michael Gruszeczki

Unknown Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Co-worker

"Mr. Cheronis is a tireless advocate for his clients. His work ethic and legal knowledge achieves excellent results for his clients."

Timothy Fiscella

Civil rights Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mike is an exceptional lawyer. He’s diligent, aggressive, and persistent and gets great results for his clients. He’s a great trial lawyer and someone I would highly recommend to anyone with a criminal defense or civil rights case."

Matthew Miller

Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Friend

"My firm often calls on Mike when our clients are in need of a criminal defense attorney. He handles these matters with the utmost professionalism and the results have always been outstanding. His prior work experience at the States Attorneys Office serves our clients well. I would highly recommend retaining Mike for any criminal defense matter."

Thomas O'Brien

Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is, bar none, one of the best litigators that I have worked with in the past. He is professional, extremely organized and very adept in front of a judge or jury. His trial skills are well honed and I have seen the direct product as we pooled the jury post-trial. The jurors were showering Mike with praise. He is one of the best and I've learned plenty from him in a short time."

David Freidberg

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael Cheronis is an excellent and experienced criminal defense attorney. He is respected not only by his colleagues but by the judiciary as well."