Criminal Law

Quick Answer What is the penalty for a first DUI in Illinois? A first DUI in Illinois is usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor, with possible penalties that include jail time, fines, driver’s license consequences, probation, alcohol education, and court supervision in eligible cases. The exact penalty depends on the facts of the arrest, […]

Quick Answer Does Illinois still use cash bail? No. Illinois no longer uses cash bail in criminal cases. After an arrest, the court decides whether you should be released with conditions or detained before trial. The decision is based on public safety, flight risk, the charge, and the evidence presented at the detention hearing, not

QUICK ANSWER: Police usually need a valid search warrant to enter and search your home in Illinois. A judge must approve the warrant based on probable cause, and the warrant should describe the place to be searched and the items officers are looking for. Police may enter without a warrant only when a legal exception

Quick Answer A plea bargain in an Illinois criminal case is an agreement where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for a possible benefit, such as reduced charges, dismissed counts, a sentencing recommendation, or a more predictable outcome. The judge must still review the plea, confirm that the defendant understands the rights being

Quick Answer Are Tasers legal in Illinois? Yes. Tasers and stun guns are legal in Illinois, but you generally need a valid FOID card and must follow restricted-location and transport rules. Carrying a Taser without a FOID card, keeping it accessible in a vehicle, or bringing it into a prohibited location may lead to a

Quick Answer Are suppressors legal in Illinois? No. Suppressors, also called silencers, are generally illegal for civilian possession in Illinois, even if you have federal approval or an NFA tax stamp. Illinois treats suppressors as prohibited firearm devices, and possession can lead to felony weapons charges. If police found a suppressor in your car, home,

Quick Answer What is the difference between moving and non-moving violations in Illinois? A moving violation happens when a driver breaks a traffic law while the vehicle is in motion, such as speeding, running a red light, improper lane use, or reckless driving. A non-moving violation usually involves parking, equipment, registration, or paperwork issues. Moving

Quick Answer In Illinois, you generally need a valid FOID card to possess firearms or ammunition, and you need an Illinois Concealed Carry License to carry a concealed firearm in public. You must also follow transport rules, avoid prohibited locations, and comply with Illinois restrictions on banned firearms and magazines. A mistake with licensing, vehicle

Quick Answer What happens if you fail to obey a traffic sign in Illinois? Failure to obey a traffic sign in Illinois is usually charged as disobeying a traffic control device under 625 ILCS 5/11-305. This can include running a stop sign, ignoring a red light, failing to yield, making a prohibited turn, or disregarding

Yes. Brass knuckles are illegal in Illinois. Illinois law prohibits metal knuckles and other knuckle weapons regardless of composition. Possession alone can lead to a weapons charge, even if the item was never used. If police found brass knuckles in your pocket, bag, car, or home, speak with a criminal defense attorney before explaining the