Chicago Shooting Injury Lawyer
PRACTICE AREAS
The Chicago shooting injury lawyer team at Curcio & Casciato helps victims of intentional and accidental gunshots and firearm accidents caused by negligent conduct seek justice and the maximum compensation possible. Our experienced gun accident lawyers in Chicago represent gunshot injury victims suffering serious injuries from incidents involving improperly secured guns, defective firearms, and inadequate security at various properties. Because Chicago is a known location for weapons and gun injuries, our law firm seeks punitive damages in addition to the economic and non-economic damages.
All wrongful death and personal injury cases are taken on a contingency fee basis. This means clients don’t owe any legal fees unless our personal injury attorneys win the case. All cases are handled by an experienced Chicago accidental shooting lawyer focused on protecting the well-being of clients and their families.
Contact our personal injury law firm for a free case evaluation and to begin the attorney-client relationship by calling 312-321-1111 or filling out our online contact form.

Chicago Gun Violence Statistics
In 2024, Chicago recorded 2,815 shootings and 581 homicides, the lowest homicide total since 2019, but gun violence remains a leading cause of serious injuries and gunshot wounds, especially in underserved communities. According to the University of Chicago Crime Lab, the lethality of firearm injuries has increased nearly 45% over the past decade, with both intentional and accidental gunshots driving the trend.
- Austin is the most dangerous neighborhood in Chicago for shootings and fatal shootings, with one shooting for every 414 residents.
- In 2023, 60% of all Chicago shootings occurred on the South Side, and 18 of the 23 neighborhoods with increased fatal shootings were also located there.
- West Side neighborhoods, including parts of North Lawndale and Garfield Park, accounted for 30% of the Chicago shootings.
- High-risk properties within these areas often include apartment complexes and public housing, where systemic poverty compounds the risk of firearm-related incidents.
These numbers emphasize the need for strong legal representation to help gunshot victims and their families seek financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and trauma-related medical care.
Illinois Gun Accident Laws
Criminal Charges in Illinois Gun Accidents
Under Illinois state law, it is a crime to recklessly discharge a firearm, especially when the discharge results in accidental shootings. If a child handles a weapon due to improperly secured guns, the adult gun owner may face criminal charges. Children’s gun cases often result from unintentional shootings linked to negligent supervision, especially in properties where gun safety protocols were ignored.
Civil Lawsuit for Firearm Accidents in Illinois
Under Illinois state law, victims may pursue civil lawsuits for shooting accidents that involve negligence. Property owners, gun manufacturers, gun owners, parents, or other liable parties may bear responsibility for defective firearms, lack of gun safety, failure to secure the premises, or lack of proper training that played a part in the tragedy.
A Chicago shooting injury lawyer can help victims recover financial compensation for medical treatment, lost income, and other related costs.

Why Gunshot Victims Need a Chicago Firearm Injury Lawyer
When a gun accident occurs, whether from intentional or accidental discharge, it leaves gunshot injury victims suffering severe injuries and a financial burden from medical treatment. Gun accidents and other criminal actions are foreseeable events in Chicago. When property or gun owners fail to protect guests and someone is injured or killed in a deadly firearm accident, a Chicago firearm injury lawyer can ensure they’re held liable by filing a gun accident lawsuit.
If you’re an intentional or accidental shooting victim who sustained a gunshot wound or other shooting injury, our legal team can help you understand your options and determine if you can file a civil lawsuit.
Our Chicago gunshot injury attorneys will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death or injury case, work with gun experts to build a strong claim, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. If we can’t negotiate a fair settlement offer, our law firm will have witnesses with expertise in guns show the court how the negligent party failed to protect you from foreseeable crimes or acts.
Navigating the legal process requires skilled legal assistance from a respected legal team to hold the shooter and other negligent parties legally responsible. A Chicago accidental shooting lawyer makes a critical difference in how shooting injury victims and their families can recover compensation for both emotional and physical injuries.
Common Locations of Accidental Gunshot Accidents That Our Chicago Firearm Accident Lawyer Team Sees
CHA Apartment Shootings in Austin, Garfield Park, North Lawndale, Englewood, Roseland, South Shore, Edgewater, and Other South Side Neighborhoods
Austin, Garfield Park, North Lawndale, Englewood, Roseland, South Shore, Edgewood, and other South Side neighborhoods have a history of high levels of catastrophic firearm-related incidents, particularly in Section 8 properties and government-subsidized housing. These communities often lack effective safety infrastructure, leading to a greater risk of accidental discharge and other preventable gun accidents. A civil lawsuit may be appropriate when these incidents result from negligent gun owners or safety failures. Gun injury victims in these neighborhoods can benefit from hiring an experienced gun accident lawyer in Chicago who can determine fault, recover damages, and pursue justice under Illinois state law.
Our law firm offers free consultations and operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.
Parking Lot and Parking Garage Shooting
Some of Chicago’s parking structures have high levels of gun-related incidents, resulting in intentional gunshot injuries and accidental shootings, in structures near Union Station, Millennium Park, the CTA Roosevelt Red Line garage, the McCormick Place lots, and large retail lots in Chatham and Back of the Yards. These locations have recurring issues with unintentional shootings, accidental discharge, and unsafe access by gun owners, which may involve negligence. Victims who suffer firearm injuries may be eligible to file a gun injury claim. An experienced gun accident lawyer in Chicago can assist with the investigation, evaluate the case, help clients with the legal process, and pursue damages on behalf of injured parties or families in cases involving wrongful death claims.
Bar and Nightclub Shooting
Chicago nightclub gun accidents are common in locations like the Green Dolphin Street, The Lyrical Lemonade, and clubs along Hubbard Street and the Rush & Division entertainment corridor. These shooting accidents frequently stem from a lack of proper training and unchecked access by gun owners. Those suffering from intentional or accidental shootings may suffer firearm injuries or other severe injuries requiring medical care. A Chicago nightclub shooting lawyer can evaluate the incident, determine if negligence in background checks or safety caused the firearm accident, and help injured clients file a gun claim. When a property owner fails to protect customers in professional settings, they can be held legally responsible. An experienced gun accident lawyer in Chicago can investigate the gun accident case and recover the most compensation possible using legal strategies with insurance adjusters or by taking the firearm accident lawsuit to civil court. Clients deserve to be compensated for economic damages and, in many cases, exemplary damages.
Mass Shootings at Public Events
Mass shootings at public events underscore the need for experienced gun accident lawyers in Chicago to provide skilled legal representation when taking legal action. Shooting accidents at public events in Chicago often result in serious gun injuries, from minor gunshot wounds to resulting amputations, spinal cord injuries, or death, leading to significant medical care costs and emotional trauma for a significant number of victims. In many firearm accident cases, the incident stems from careless gun owners or professional staff, highlighting the importance of responsible gun ownership and training.
When gun injuries happen from accidental shootings or mass shootings at Chicago events, injured parties can recover compensation through filing gun lawsuits, obtaining damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A Chicago shooting injury attorney from our law firm can help gather evidence, establish fault, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure justice is served.
If you or a loved one has suffered a gunshot injury at a public event, it’s crucial to consult with a Chicago firearm injury lawyer promptly. Legal assistance is instrumental in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Hotel Shooting
Hotel shootings in Chicago neighborhoods like Bronzeville, the Near West Side, and Uptown continue to result in shooting accidents, accidental gunshots, and preventable firearm injuries. In Chicago, hotel gun accidents often stem from poor training, failed background checks, and inadequate control over access to weapons. Victims face immediate and future costs. The Chicago accidental shooting lawyer team at our law offices helps injured individuals file a firearm accident claim against liable parties. Whether the shooting took place in a lobby or private room, a Chicago hotel accident lawyer can recover compensation that addresses both the personal injury damages and seek punitive damages for gross negligence.
CTA Shooting
The Chicago firearm injury attorney team from our law office represents victims when a CTA-related shooting accident occurs because of reckless gun owners, negligent oversight, or armed offenders who carry handguns on trains or platforms. These tragic firearm accidents leave survivors with lasting gunshot injuries, emotional suffering such as post-traumatic stress disorder, or families grieving someone killed by senseless transit gunfire. Our Chicago firearm injury attorneys understand the harm and costs incurred, and we act as dedicated advocates for those healing from gun accidents or the death of a loved one. We work closely with police, examine critical evidence, and rely on professional witnesses to build each personal injury or death case, vigorously pursuing compensation. An experienced CTA accident lawyer can help protect your rights and demand full accountability for the violence you or a loved one endured.
Gas Station Shooting
Gas station shootings in Chicago typically result from negligent gas station and gun owners, leading to tragic firearm accidents, including intentional or accidental shootings, resulting in severe gunshot injuries or even death. Firearm accidents at gas stations are a common type of gun accident cases and create lasting consequences in the lives of many, including physical pain and suffering, and out-of-pocket costs. A Chicago shooting injury attorney examines evidence, interviews witnesses and first responders, and helps injured individuals fight for fair settlements on their road to recovery. As dedicated legal advocates, we’re skilled in settlement negotiations. Speak with a Chicago accidental shooting lawyer for a free consultation to explain your case.
School Shooting
School shootings in Chicago have resulted in countless gunshot injuries and deaths for students, teachers, and staff. In many cases, children who aren’t gun owners bring weapons onto school grounds, leading to accidental shooting incidents or intentional crimes, both recognized common types of firearm devastation. Survivors, particularly children, suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, while their parents face immeasurable harm and ongoing out-of-pocket costs. When a school shooting happens, first responders rush to stabilize children and teachers, but recovery requires legal support. A Chicago shooting injury attorney from our law firm helps families fight for justice, working with authorities, gathering critical evidence, and using extensive resources to hold schools or third parties accountable. Our knowledgeable professional vigorously pursues settlements that address fault and promote healing.

Common Causes of Gun Injuries in Chicago
Unlawful Gun Use
Unlawful gun use in Chicago causes preventable firearm accidents, serious gunshot injuries, and, in some cases, accidental shootings that lead to countless fatalities. When reckless gun owners ignore state laws or fail to follow basic safety measures, devastating consequences arise. Families often face lasting harm and substantial costs for medical care. Through strategic legal action, individuals who commit or enable the misuse of handguns, shotguns, or other firearms can be held liable for the damage caused. Our Chicago firearm injury lawyer group can help file claims for negligence in sales, purchases, lack of reporting, providing a gun to a friend who isn’t a gun owner, and other instances of illegal gun use.
Defective Firearms
Our Chicago accidental shooting lawyer team often handles claims where faulty guns discharge without warning due to design flaws, assembly errors, or inadequate safety mechanisms. These incidents involve handguns, rifles, and shotguns, and typically stem from known defects that gun manufacturers failed to disclose or correct. Plaintiffs may be hurt while cleaning, loading, or simply handling the gun as intended. Building an accidental shooting claim requires identifying all factors and working to collect essential evidence before it’s altered. Those injured by faulty guns typically incur serious gun injuries, and the defendants often include gun manufacturers, stores, and distributors. Our accidental shooting lawyers in Chicago file claims to seek damages, civil penalties, and, in cases of gross negligence, recover money for punitive damages. The sale of potentially defective guns requires respected Chicago dangerous product lawyers who have the resources to demand responsibility.
Unintentional Shootings: Accidental Discharge and Firearm Negligence
In Chicago, accidental shootings are a common cause of firearm accidents during target practice or hunting accidents. A significant number of firearm accidents happen in areas where hunters’ access to rifles and a lack of responsible gun ownership result in gun injuries or the killing of another person. Firearm accidents frequently include adults or children using a firearm for the first time, typically with inadequate supervision. The presence of alcohol, drugs, or hidden defects in the firearm increases the risk of accidental fires or gunshot injuries. Whether a person is injured or a loved one is killed, the liable party may be held legally responsible for rehabilitation and other costs under Illinois state law. For help determining responsibility and seeking compensation for your injuries or a loved one’s deadly accidental shooting, speak with a Chicago accidental shooting attorney for a free consultation.
Intentional Shooting Involving Domestic Violence and Personal Disputes
Intentional shootings in Chicago cause devastating gunshot injuries and fatalities. These claims fall outside the scope of accidental shooting or firearm accidents, as they result from deliberate choices by the defendant who will bear responsibility under Illinois state law. Many fires are from gun owners who knowingly misuse their guns, creating unavoidable gun injuries and exposing other people to danger and unintended consequences. A Chicago firearm injury lawyer can help families file gun injury claims to seek maximum compensation and punitive damages. Hiring a lawyer to advocate for your interests and ensure your voice is heard is crucial in these lawsuits, specifically.
Who Is Legally Responsible for Gun Accidents in Illinois?
Gunshot Injuries and Property Owners' Responsibility
Property owners in Chicago can be held legally responsible when shooting accidents result from negligent security, poor lighting, broken locks, or negligence in controlling access. These conditions may give rise to a case if the owner knew or should have known about the potential danger. For locations like Chicago, where there’s a high level of crime, all owners are painfully aware of the inherent dangers. A premises liability claims lawyer in Chicago can investigate whether the owner’s negligence allowed the conditions that led to the shooting.
Landlords' Responsibility For Shooting Accidents
If a landlord is aware of repeated threats, prior violent incidents, or tenant complaints involving negligent gun owners, they may be held liable when gunshot injuries happen or a loved one suffers wrongful death. This applies in both intentional shooting and accidental shooting cases where the landlord failed to act on clear warning signs or failed to maintain basic safety for residents. A Chicago apartment injury lawyer from our law office builds cases to prove landlord negligence and seek maximum compensation, including exemplary damages, to ease the financial burden caused by one of the country’s leading causes of personal injuries.
Careless Gun Owners' Liability for Accidental Gunshots
Gun owners in Chicago have a legal duty to follow responsible gun ownership practices. When a shooting accident results from unlocked guns, unsafe storage, or other forms of negligence, those individuals may be held accountable for resulting gunshot injuries or wrongful death. In both intentional and accidental shooting cases, the consequences can be fatal or life-altering. A Chicago shooting injury attorney can help build a strong gun claim, prove negligence, and seek compensation for firearm injuries or for the death of a loved one.
Inadequate Security and Firearm Accidents
Chicago shooting injury lawyer teams frequently handle cases where poor security measures lead to gunshot injuries or fatal accidents. When owners ignore known threats, fail to install proper lighting, or neglect to secure entry points, they may be held accountable for resulting gun injuries or fatal incidents. Since Chicago is a location with high gun crime rates, these are foreseeable dangers that support valid gun claims. Victims can seek justice and settlements with guidance from the Chicago inadequate security lawyers at our law firm.
CHA or City of Chicago Liability in Shooting Accidents
Can you sue the Chicago government or the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) after gun accidents on public property? Yes, but strict processes apply. Victims must file a formal notice of claim within one year. The claim must outline when, where, and how the injury occurred, and name the state or city entity involved. A Chicago accidental shooting lawyer can help ensure the notice is complete, filed within the time limit, and supported with evidence to meet statutory requirements. Suing the city or CHA requires showing the court that negligence directly caused the shooting.
Shooters
Those who cause firearm accidents resulting in gunshot wounds or fatal outcomes bear responsibility under Illinois state law. Whether the event was intentional or stemmed from negligent conduct, victims have the right to file a civil lawsuit for medical expenses, rehabilitation, PTSD-related care, and other costs. A Chicago shooting injury attorney can help gather evidence, demonstrate liability, and secure compensation for the person or loved one affected. Gun injury claims often require swift action within the legal time limit and benefit from skilled and compassionate legal representation.

How a Chicago Firearm Injury Attorney Can Help
The most critical aspect of most cases is proving liability. Our Chicago shooting accident lawyers have extensive experience showing that landlords or owners failed to prevent gun accidents, especially in cases where criminal activity is at a high level, that security personnel weren’t provided proper training, or showing how responsible gun ownership would have avoided the gun accident.
Our Chicago gun accident attorney team gathers evidence, consults with gun experts, and helps seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
Gunshot wounds lead to mounting medical bills, lost wages, lost future earnings, and lasting consequences for victims and family members. Our Chicago gun accident lawyer group is dedicated to seeking the most compensation for your injuries possible, recovering damages for immediate and future costs associated with gunshot injuries and wrongful death claims. Our legal team provides knowledgeable legal representation to ensure responsible parties are held liable and secures the compensation clients need to move forward.
How a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help After a Fatal Shooting in Chicago
A wrongful death attorney can help family members pursue justice after a fatal shooting, whether it was an intentional or accidental shooting accident caused by negligent conduct, negligent security, or inadequately secured guns. Most cases involve complex issues like gun ownership liability, compensation for your injuries, and proving the responsible party is legally responsible in civil court. An experienced attorney can gather evidence, handle insurance company negotiations, and fight for economic damages, loss of companionship, medical expenses, and lost future earnings on behalf of the deceased.
If your family is dealing with a wrongful death, contact a Chicago fatal shooting lawyer for a free case review to discuss your case.

Illinois Statute of Limitations for Filing a Gun Wound Lawsuit
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury or fatalities caused by gun violence is generally two years from the date of the gun accident. This time limit applies to adults, but children have until they turn 18 to file a gun claim. If the firearm accident results in a loss of life, the family can seek damages for the loss of companionship, loss of future earnings, and other future damages.
Filing a gun lawsuit in the state of Illinois requires strict compliance with time limits and notice rules. A Chicago accidental shooting lawyer can explain how specific circumstances may extend or reduce the available window to sue the liable defendant.
Chicago Accidental Shooting Lawyer
If you or a loved one suffered due to gun violence, negligent security, or accidental shootings, a Chicago accidental shooting lawyer from our law firm can help. We understand the consequences shooting accident victims face and are prepared to provide the skilled and compassionate guidance required to handle the legal process.
Contact an experienced attorney from our personal injury law firm for a free consultation by calling 312-321-1111 or filling out our online contact form.