Defending Your Rights, Protecting Your Future
Assault and battery are serious offenses in Illinois. While they’re generally misdemeanors, they are still considered violent crimes. A conviction can result in lasting consequences such as jail time, probation, steep fines and a permanent criminal record. For college...
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees your right to be free from “unreasonable search or seizure.” This means police can’t search your vehicle during a traffic stop unless they have reasonable grounds – in legal terms, “probable cause” – to believe...
Shoplifting – called “retail theft” in Illinois – is a specific type of theft involving taking merchandise from a retail establishment without payment. As with other types of theft, the severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen goods. If convicted of...
Getting pulled over while driving is an intimidating experience. The police officer is in a position of power. You don’t want to make things worse for yourself by being uncooperative or argumentative, but at the same time, you shouldn’t give up your rights. The less...
If you’re facing drug possession charges in Illinois, the prosecution has to prove that you committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. That includes proving that you knew you had the drugs. This knowledge requirement is an important part of the criminal offense....
A conviction for domestic violence – called “domestic battery” in Illinois – can have a big impact on your life. It’s important to take this charge seriously. Here are some ways a conviction can affect you. Your Freedom A misdemeanor domestic battery conviction can...
Every driver knows the fear and dread that comes with seeing flashing lights in your rearview mirror. When you get pulled over, even if you feel you’ve done nothing wrong, you’re in a situation of imbalanced power. The police have all the authority in that moment....
A domestic violence conviction can have a big impact on your life in every way. Fortunately, you have rights – including the right to mount a strong defense. As with other types of charges, the prosecution must prove every element of a domestic battery charge beyond a...
A domestic violence charge carries a lot of stigma. Even a misdemeanor conviction can have far-reaching consequences. It can impact your job prospects, housing opportunities, gun rights, immigration status, child custody arrangement and, of course, your reputation....
A Class X felony is the most serious felony you can commit in Illinois. If convicted of a Class X felony, the judge must sentence you to a minimum number of years in jail. With other categories of certain felony convictions, the judge may have discretion to provide an...