Aggressive. Experienced.
Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Criminal Investigations
If you believe you’re being investigated for a crime in Chicago or anywhere in Cook County, acting fast is critical. Under the new Cook County State’s Attorney, investigations are more aggressive, charges are being filed faster, and prosecutors are offering fewer opportunities for negotiation or diversion. By the time charges are filed, the State has often spent weeks—or months—building its case.
Early legal intervention can make the difference between avoiding charges entirely and facing a lifetime of consequences. If you suspect you’re under investigation, do not speak to police before consulting with a skilled criminal defense attorney.
Andrew M. Weisberg is a former Cook County prosecutor who understands exactly how investigators operate, how charging decisions are made, and—most importantly—how to intervene before damage is done.
The New Reality: Tougher Investigations and Charging Policies in Cook County
The newly elected State’s Attorney has instructed prosecutors to take a far more aggressive stance at the pre-charge stage, meaning:
• More cases are resulting in formal charges—even those previously resolved informally
• Harsher plea offers with fewer opportunities for reduced charges
• Tighter coordination between police and prosecutors early in the investigation
• Faster indictments, often before a suspect is aware they’re being targeted
• Expanded use of digital evidence, including cell phone data, GPS records, social media activity, and financial records
These policies make it far easier for law enforcement to build a case quietly, long before you have a chance to respond. If you believe you’re being watched or questioned, contacting an attorney immediately may limit or even prevent the charges prosecutors are preparing.
Signs You May Be Under Criminal Investigation
Many people don’t realize they’re being targeted until charges are imminent. Common warning signs include:
• Detectives contacting you, your family, friends, or coworkers
• Requests for interviews framed as “routine questions”
• Search warrants for your home, business, phone, or computer
• Subpoenas for phone records, bank data, or electronic files
• Grand jury subpoenas issued to people connected to you
• Unusual activity involving your social media or online accounts
• Notices of frozen or flagged bank accounts
• Anonymous or third-party tips indicating police interest
If any of these apply, there is a high likelihood that you are already the subject of a criminal investigation.
Why Hiring a Lawyer Early Is Critical
Waiting until charges are filed can severely damage your ability to defend yourself. Here’s why early representation matters:
• Police may already consider you a suspect, even if they claim you’re “just a witness.”
• Anything you say—even casual statements—can be used against you.
• A lawyer can stop the investigation from escalating by addressing weaknesses before prosecutors commit to charges.
• Your rights must be protected if police conduct unlawful searches or interrogations.
• You may avoid pretrial detention. With stricter detention policies in Cook County, intervening before charges are filed can keep you out of custody.
Early legal action often shapes the entire direction of the case. In many instances, Andrew M. Weisberg has resolved matters quietly, efficiently, and without charges ever being filed.
Common Types of Criminal Investigations in Chicago
Andrew M. Weisberg represents clients under investigation for a wide variety of offenses, including:
• White-Collar Crimes – Fraud, embezzlement, tax violations, wire fraud, bank fraud, insurance fraud
• Sex Crimes & Internet-Based Offenses – Online solicitation, sting operations, traveling to meet a minor
• Violent Crimes & Gun Offenses – Aggravated battery, UUW, armed violence, weapons possession
• Drug Crimes – Possession, delivery, trafficking, conspiracy
• Financial & Identity Crimes – Identity theft, credit card fraud, digital theft, money laundering
Whether your case involves local police, state investigators, or federal agencies, early intervention is your strongest opportunity to protect your future.
Andrew M. Weisberg: The Advocate You Need Before Charges Are Filed
When you’re under investigation, the lawyer you choose—and when you choose them—matters more than anything else. Andrew M. Weisberg brings a rare combination of experience and strategy to pre-charge defense:
• Former Cook County Prosecutor who understands how charging decisions are made
• Extensive experience preventing charges through early legal intervention
• Direct, strategic communication with prosecutors to challenge weak evidence
• Proven ability to expose investigative flaws and protect constitutional rights
• Discreet and highly responsive representation when timing is critical
Andrew does everything possible to resolve investigations before they escalate, keeping your record clean and your life intact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Investigations in Cook County
How do I know if I’m under criminal investigation?
Most people find out indirectly. Common signs include detectives calling you or someone close to you, officers showing up at your home or workplace, receiving subpoenas, learning that others have been questioned about you, or noticing unusual activity involving your bank accounts or digital platforms. If any of these have occurred, you should assume you are being investigated.
Should I talk to the police if they say I’m not a suspect?
No. Police often downplay your status to get information. Even if officers say they “just want to clear something up,” you may already be a target. Anything you say can be used against you, and speaking without a lawyer almost always increases your risk. You should never speak to law enforcement before consulting an attorney.
Can a lawyer really stop charges from being filed?
Yes, in many cases. Early intervention is one of the most powerful advantages of hiring an attorney during an investigation. Your lawyer may be able to present evidence to the prosecutor, point out weaknesses in the case, correct misunderstandings, or negotiate a resolution that avoids criminal charges entirely.
What happens during a criminal investigation?
Investigators gather statements, review surveillance, analyze digital evidence, conduct forensic testing, obtain warrants, and consult with prosecutors. Many investigations include examination of cell phone data, text messages, search histories, GPS records, financial activity, and online communications. Investigations are often deeper and more coordinated now, especially in Cook County.
Do police need a warrant to investigate me?
Not for everything. Officers can conduct interviews, review publicly available information, monitor social media, and gather witness statements without a warrant. A warrant is required for certain searches of your home, vehicle, phone, or personal data. If evidence was obtained illegally, your attorney can seek to suppress it.
Can the police search my phone during an investigation?
Not without a warrant or your consent. Phones contain extensive personal data, and courts typically require law enforcement to obtain a warrant to search them. Never voluntarily hand over your phone or provide passwords before speaking with an attorney.
What should I do if I get a subpoena?
A subpoena means the government is seeking information or testimony from you. Do not ignore it. Do not contact the police or the prosecutor directly. Instead, contact an attorney immediately to evaluate what the subpoena requires and how to protect your rights.
What if I haven’t been charged yet—can I still be arrested?
Yes. If the investigation results in probable cause, police can make an arrest or prosecutors can request a warrant. Charges may also be filed directly through the grand jury. This is why early involvement of a defense attorney is essential.
Can I be investigated without knowing it?
Absolutely. Many investigations occur behind the scenes before the subject becomes aware. Digital surveillance, financial monitoring, and witness interviews often happen long before the police make contact.
What types of crimes are most commonly investigated in Cook County?
Common investigations include fraud, theft, identity crimes, gun offenses, aggravated battery, drug offenses, financial crimes, sex offenses, domestic cases, and internet-based crimes. Federal agencies may also become involved when cases include interstate activity, online conduct, or large financial amounts.
How long do criminal investigations take?
It varies widely. Some investigations last days or weeks, while others continue for months or even years. Complex cases—especially those involving digital evidence, forensic testing, or multiple witnesses—often take longer. An attorney can sometimes speed up the process or bring clarity to where things stand.
Can I be charged even if I never spoke to the police?
Yes. Prosecutors can file charges without ever interviewing you. Avoiding police contact does not protect you—only legal representation can.
Why is hiring an attorney early so important?
When you hire an attorney during the investigation stage, you gain control over a process designed to work against you. A lawyer can communicate with detectives on your behalf, prevent self-incrimination, protect your rights, respond to subpoenas, preserve evidence, and potentially stop charges before they begin. The earlier an attorney is involved, the stronger your position becomes.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
If you think you’re under criminal investigation, do not wait. Once charges are filed, your options narrow and the consequences become more severe.
Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to step in immediately.
Call (773) 908-9811 for a free and confidential consultation, or submit a Case Review form through our website.
The sooner you act, the stronger your defense. Let Andrew M. Weisberg use his experience to protect your rights—before charges are ever filed.
