About Cheronis & Parente LLC · Chicago
Cheronis & Parente LLC is a Chicago-based criminal defense law firm known for its fearless, trial-focused representation in high-stakes federal and state cases. Founded in 2008 by Damon M. Cheronis, the firm expanded in 2022 with the addition of Christopher V. Parente, a former federal prosecutor, and in 2023 added Aubrea R. Drake. The firm specializes in complex litigation including white-collar crimes, drug offenses, violent crimes, sex crimes, and criminal appeals. It serves clients nationwide and is recognized for its aggressive motion practice, courtroom advocacy, and results-oriented approach.
Cheronis & Parente LLC is a boutique criminal defense firm based in Chicago, Illinois, with a national reach. The firm’s attorneys — Damon M. Cheronis (third-generation lawyer, over 20 years of trial experience), Christopher V. Parente (former U.S. Attorney), and Aubrea R. Drake (former public defender) — are known for their courtroom prowess, strategic motion practice, and ability to handle high-profile, complex cases. They represent clients including public officials, celebrities, doctors, and CEOs. The firm’s practice areas include federal and state criminal defense, white-collar crimes, drug crimes, violent crimes, sex crimes, and criminal appeals. They emphasize preparation for trial from the outset and have achieved notable results, including acquittals, dismissals, and reversals on appeal. The firm is selective in cases to ensure deep involvement from all partners and maintains a reputation for excellence in trial advocacy.
- In business
- since 2008
- Owner
- Damon M. Cheronis
- Serves
- Chicago, Illinois, and throughout the United States
About
Cheronis & Parente LLC is regarded as one of the most preeminent criminal defense firms in Chicago. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality representation to individuals charged with serious federal and state offenses. Our firm is comprised of trial lawyers, always willing to innovatively and fearlessly present even the most complex and challenging cases to a jury for our client’s betterment. Our firm, likewise, is well known for employing an aggressive and creative motion practice to give its clients every advantage when it comes time for trial.
Practice Areas
Our attorneys have a wealth of experience nationwide handling a wide variety of legal matters, focusing on trial work in federal white collar, corruption and violent drug crimes and their state corollaries, as well as appeals before the 7th Circuit and other U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals, Illinois Appellate Courts and the Illinois Supreme Court, and in grand jury and other criminal investigations.
- Federal Criminal Defense
- White Collar Crimes
- Drug Crimes
- Violent Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Criminal Appeals
- Grand Jury Representation
Why Choose Us
Our firm is small by design. We are selective in the cases we take in order to ensure that all partners have their fingers on the pulse of each matter. Our attorneys have a long track record of success in some of the most complex federal and white collar criminal cases. Our mindset is to prepare for trial from the outset, and our effective motions practice is key to putting our clients in position to win.