Criminal Law

Quick Answer Yes, firearms can be legally possessed and carried in Illinois, but different rules apply to possession, concealed carry, transportation, and prohibited locations. Illinois residents generally need valid FOID authority to possess firearms or ammunition, while carrying a concealed handgun in public generally requires an Illinois Concealed Carry License. A firearm may also be […]

Quick Answer A failure to obey a traffic sign ticket in Illinois is generally a moving violation that may add 20 points to your driving record if it results in a conviction under 625 ILCS 5/11-305. Before paying the ticket, review whether court supervision may be available, whether the traffic-control device was visible and properly

Quick Answer Yes. Illinois law prohibits knowingly possessing, purchasing, selling, manufacturing, or carrying metal knuckles or another knuckle weapon regardless of its composition. A standard violation under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(1) is a Class A misdemeanor. Certain violations in locations specifically listed by Illinois law can be charged as a Class 4 felony. The State still

When someone threatens you inside your own home, your instinct is to protect yourself and your family. Illinois law recognizes that instinct. But after the threat passes, a criminal charge can follow, and suddenly you find yourself explaining actions you took in a matter of seconds. Understanding the Illinois Castle Doctrine before that moment, or

When most people think about criminal defense, they picture a courtroom. A lawyer standing before a jury, delivering a closing argument, fighting for their client in front of a packed gallery. That image is not wrong, but it tells only a small part of the story. The truth is that the most important work in

Being charged with a crime is one of the most disorienting experiences a person can go through. One moment life is normal. Next, you are facing a legal process that moves fast, uses language you may not understand, and carries consequences that can follow you for years. Most people in this situation don’t know what

Facing Criminal Charges in Springfield, IL? The earlier you involve a defense attorney, the easier it is to understand your timeline, risks, court dates, and defense options. Andrew Affrunti helps clients in Springfield, Sangamon County, and Central Illinois prepare for each stage of a criminal case. Call 217-528-2183 for a confidential consultation. Request a Consultation

If you or someone you love was just arrested in Illinois, the next 24 to 48 hours matter. Illinois no longer uses cash bail, but that does not mean everyone automatically goes home. A judge may release the person with conditions or order detention if prosecutors meet the legal standard. The hearing moves fast, and

Quick Answer After a first arrest in Springfield, Illinois, the next steps may include booking, a pretrial release decision, a first court appearance, arraignment, evidence review, and additional court dates. A first arrest does not automatically mean a conviction. Keep your paperwork, follow every release condition, confirm your court date, avoid discussing the allegations, and

Quick Answer A criminal defense attorney cannot guarantee that charges will be dropped in Illinois. An attorney may identify weak evidence, unlawful searches, unreliable witnesses, charging problems, constitutional issues, or negotiation opportunities that could lead prosecutors to dismiss or reduce charges or could support a court motion. Whether charges are dropped depends on the specific