Criminal Law

How the SAFE-T Act Changed Pretrial Release in Illinois Illinois no longer uses cash bail to decide who gets released before trial. A person is not supposed to stay in jail only because they cannot afford to pay money. Instead, courts focus on risk. Judges decide whether a defendant should be released, released with conditions, […]

Quick Answer What happens if you miss a court date in Illinois? If you miss a court date in Illinois, the judge may issue a bench warrant, send a summons, change your release conditions, or create new problems in your criminal case. Act immediately, check whether a warrant was issued, and speak with a defense

Quick Answer How does a criminal case move through Sangamon County Circuit Court? A criminal case in Sangamon County usually starts with an arrest, citation, complaint, or formal charge. The case may then move through pretrial release, arraignment, discovery, motions, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. Most Springfield criminal cases are handled at the Sangamon County

Your first meeting with a criminal defense attorney sets the tone for your case. The more organized and prepared you are, the more productive that conversation will be. Many people show up stressed and unsure of what to bring. Preparation helps your attorney assess risk, identify defenses, and give you clear guidance from the start.

A first arrest can be frightening, especially if you have never been involved with the criminal justice system before. Many people feel confused about what will happen next and worry about how the situation might affect their job, family, or future. If you are arrested in Springfield, Illinois, understanding the process can help reduce uncertainty

An arrest can feel confusing and overwhelming, especially if you have never been through the criminal justice system before. In Sangamon County, Illinois, the process that follows an arrest is structured and moves quickly. Understanding what typically happens next can help reduce uncertainty and prevent mistakes that might affect your case. Knowing the steps in

Quick Answer Domestic battery in Illinois is usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor, but it can become a felony if the defendant has certain prior convictions or repeated domestic battery convictions. A conviction can lead to jail time, probation, fines, no-contact conditions, firearm restrictions, and a permanent criminal record. Anyone charged with domestic battery

A criminal record follows you into job applications, rental screenings, professional licensing reviews, and background checks of every kind. In Illinois, that does not always have to be permanent. The state has one of the more expansive expungement and sealing frameworks in the country, and recent changes under the Clean Slate Act expanded eligibility further.

Quick Answer Many common pocket knives and utility knives are legal in Illinois, but the law becomes stricter when a knife is carried with unlawful intent, brought into a restricted location, or falls into a prohibited category. Ballistic knives are illegal. Switchblades are restricted, though Illinois law provides an exception for people with a valid

Quick Answer What are the penalties for drug possession in Illinois? Drug possession penalties in Illinois depend on the substance, amount, charge class, prior record, and whether the case involves simple possession or possession with intent to deliver. Many controlled substance possession cases are charged as felonies, even for small amounts. Penalties may include probation,