Joe Messineo

Joe Messineo is of counsel at Kost Law and represents clients in criminal defense cases ranging from traffic offenses to serious felonies. His work falls within a defense practice that handles criminal charges, DUI matters, domestic violence cases, drug offenses, violent crimes, sex crimes, theft allegations, and other state criminal proceedings. He approaches these matters with experience developed through both legal training and early exposure to felony prosecutions in Cook County.

Joe earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in communications from DePaul University in Chicago. During law school, he served as a 711 law clerk at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office and assisted in several felony trials. That experience gave him direct exposure to courtroom procedure, evidence presentation, and prosecution strategy before he moved into criminal defense practice.

Joe handles criminal matters at different levels of seriousness, from traffic-related offenses to felony prosecutions. His background at the State’s Attorney’s Office helps him evaluate how prosecutors build cases, organize evidence, and prepare witnesses. In defense work, that perspective supports case review, motion strategy, negotiation, and trial preparation. His practice requires close attention to police reports, witness statements, legal defenses, charging decisions, and the consequences a conviction can create.

Joe Messineo works within a criminal defense firm led by former prosecutors and trial attorneys. His practice is focused on protecting clients facing the criminal justice system and guiding them through decisions that can affect liberty, employment, driving privileges, and future opportunities. By combining prosecution-side exposure with defense representation, he helps clients understand the case against them, evaluate available defenses, and prepare for negotiations, hearings, or trial.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Kostopoulos Law
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• University of South Dakota School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• DePaul University
  Bachelor’s degree in Communications

Awards & Badges