Press Releases

Hung Jury in Drug Conspiracy Trial

On February 21, 2007 after deliberating over 13 hours over two days, jurors told U.S. Distrrict Judge Michael Mihm they couldn't reach a unanimouns decision on whether Terry R. Bennett was guilty of conspiracy or wheterh he took part in two video taped drug sales.

Mr. Bennett was represented by Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Michael J. Petro during the jury trial that began on February 12, 2007 .

Mr Bennett's two co-defendants at trial were convicted of all charges.

A decision on wheter to try Mr. Bennett again has not been made.

The fight continues!

For more about attorney Michael J. Petro, visit www.mjpetro.com .

Attorney Michael J. Petro Argues in 7th Circuit

On today's date, attorney Michael J. Petro argued USA v. Henry Renken, 05-2838 in the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals.  The distinguished panel included Judges Posner, Evans and Sykes. 

In a hard fought case, Mr. Petro argued that the FBI/police violated Mr. Renken's 4th Amendment rights when they searched his home late at night without a warrant. 

Prior to today's argument, Mr. Petro successfully argued to suppress two statements that Mr. Renken made during the same encounter with the FBI/police. 

For more about attorney Michael J. Petro, visit www.mjpetro.com .

Michael J. Petro Capital Litigation Bar Approved

On September 25, 2006, Attorney Michael J. Petro was certified by the Illinois Supreme Court as a Member of the Capital Litigation Trial Bar.  This certification was based on Mr. Petro's "experience, training and dedication to ethical practice necessary" to handle Illinois Death Penalty cases.  Congratulations Mike!

For more about attorney Michael J. Petro, visit www.mjpetro.com .

7th Circuit Brief Filed

On September 15, 2006, attorney Michael J. Petro filed his brief in USA v. Robert Stephenson, 06-2574.  In his brief, Mr. Petro asks the 7th Circuit to find the "crack" cocaine enhancements in 21 USC 841 unconstitutionally void for vagueness.  The government has until October 16 to file their brief.

For more about attorney Michael J. Petro, visit www.mjpetro.com .

Innocent of All Charges

On June 24, 2006, F had a good job and a promising future.  Also, F was  fighting for custody of his two beloved children.  That evening, F was driving a car that he didn't own.  F was pulled over for a traffic offense and the car was searched.  The result, the police found illegal drugs in the trunk. 

Fortunately, F hired Attorney Michael J. Petro to represent him.   

On July 26, 2006, a hearing was held in Cook County on F's  case.  At the hearing, Attorney Michael J. Petro convinced the court that F was innocent of all charges.  The result, F was acquitted of all charges.

For more information, please go to www.mjpetro.com .

Not Guilty of Fraud

On July 5, 2006 after a two day bench trial, esteemed Cook County Judge Ronald Davis found JR not guilty of all charges in a civil fraud case.  JR was represented at trial by attorney Michael J. Petro.  One of three defendants, JR was the only one released without a finding of liability. 

On a sad note, co-counsel Alan Nagel passed away on July 6, 2006.  Attorney Micheal J. Petro was a friend of Alan, and admired his skill and perseverance in the court room.  Attorney Michael J. Petro will greatly miss Alan's friendship, advocacy, and sense of humor.  Attorney Michael J. Petro offers his prayers and thoughts to Alan's family.

For more information, please go to www.mjpetro.com .

Police Take a Beating

On March 19, 2006, DM was falsely arrested while leaving Target with his pregnant wife, 5 year old daughter, and sister.  The Calument City Police Department made things worse by racially insulting DM and his family, beating DM, and using a taser (stun gun) three times on DM to effectuate their misdeed.

DM decided to fight back.  He hired attorney Micheal J. Petro to represent him in court. 

On June 26, 2006 in Cook County Circuit Court, the Calument City Police took a beating.  Attorney Michael J. Petro aggeressively and exhaustively cross examined three police officers and reduced their story to rubble.  The result, truth and justice prevailed.  DM was found innocent of all charges.

Upon hearing the result, a packed court room of spectators cheered wildly and applauded the decision. 

For more information, please go to www.mjpetro.com .

Welcome From Attorney Michael J. Petro

Hello everybody.  This is a list of current and old press releases from Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Michael J. Petro.  Please remember, every client's case is different.  As such, Mike's past success is no guarantee of his future results. 

For more information, please go to www.mjpetro.com .