Christopher DeRango
Attorney Christopher DeRango
Christopher A. DeRango is known as one of the top criminal defense attorneys in Northern Illinois, known for handling high profile, major felony cases. His legal career began in 1994 after he graduated from Northern Illinois University College of Law in DeKalb, Illinois. Chris's first job was as an Assistant State’s Attorney for the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office. His skill and talent were quickly recognized, and he soon had the opportunity to move into private practice where he was able to pursue his true passion: providing the best possible defense to the accused.
Nearly 25 years ago, Chris joined the firm of DeRango & Cain, LLC where he is now the Senior Member in charge of the firm. While Chris's primary areas of practice involve major felonies and felony DUI matters, he has successfully represented clients in a full spectrum of criminal matters, including white collar crimes, gun offenses, reckless homicide, drug-related offenses, and murder.
Chris has successfully tried many jury and non-jury trials in both state and federal court. His practice regularly takes him to courts located not only in Rockford (Winnebago County), but also Belvidere (Boone County), Sycamore (DeKalb County), Dixon (Lee County), Woodstock (McHenry County), Oregon (Ogle County), Freeport (Stephenson County), and to other jurisdictions across northern Illinois. You have probably seen Chris in any variety of media, as he is regularly asked to provide his expertise when important matters of public interest related to criminal law are in the news.
Areas of Practice
- Criminal Defense
- DUI / DWI
- Complex Litigation
- State Trial and Appellate Practice
- Motor Vehicle Accidents - Plaintiff
- Federal Criminal Trial Practice
- Driver’s License Reinstatement
Bar Admissions
- Illinois, 1994
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Illinois, 2000
Education
- Northern Illinois University College of Law, DeKalb, Illinois - J.D.
- Northern Illinois University DeKalb, Illinois - B.A.