Springfield Criminal Defense Blog

The “Fresh Start” You’ve Been Waiting For? If you live in Springfield or the surrounding Central Illinois communities, you know that a past mistake can feel like a life sentence. Whether it’s a background check for a state job at the Capitol or a housing application in Chatham, an old arrest record can close doors…

Navigating Illinois DUI laws can be confusing and stressful. Whether you are worried about license suspension or jail time, understanding the statutes is the first step toward a strong defense. What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit under Illinois DUI laws? In Illinois, it’s illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or…

Suppressors are among the most popular firearm accessories sold in the United States. Also known as silencers, suppressors help limit the noise generated when discharging a firearm. Using a suppressor can protect people who routinely shoot for hunting or training purposes from hearing damage. Suppressors also help limit recoil after firing, which can reduce cumulative…

Illinois prosecutes people who cause harm to others. There are a variety of different criminal charges that the state can pursue after a violent incident. Some people might find themselves facing assault charges, while others may end up accused of battery. Understanding what distinguishes assault from battery in Illinois can be critical for those trying…

Receiving a driving under the influence (DUI) charge in Illinois can be stressful. The court can suspend your driver’s license and may require you to file for an SR-22 before you can get it back. If you are facing a DUI charge, understanding the importance of an SR-22 can help you manage the process of…

Police officers have a duty to keep the roads as safe as possible, but that doesn’t mean that they can just do whatever they want when they want. For example, if they’re going to pull a vehicle over, they must have reasonable suspicion. In the case of a suspected drunk driving stop, reasonable suspicion means…

Traffic control officers and other personnel play a vital role in keeping roads safe and orderly. They guide vehicles during rush hours, road repair and emergencies, helping to ensure smooth flow and reduced risk of accidents. Yet, some motorists become frustrated and engage in arguments when asked to stop, slow down or reroute. Understanding why…

Illinois residents who want to protect themselves and their loved ones if they encounter a sudden attack may decide to buy and carry a knife for defense. It’s important to know that Illinois has some complicated knife laws compared to some other states. While the state does ban possession and sale of throwing stars and…

Drug possession is a crime. People who encounter police officers while in possession of prohibited drugs face arrest and prosecution. The state can also bring charges against people who have prescription drugs in their possession without a valid prescription from a physician. Possession is the least serious drug crime, but sometimes the state pursues more…

If you’re driving in Illinois – especially around holidays, weekends or major social and sporting events – you might find yourself approaching a “sobriety checkpoint” designed to spot those who are guilty of driving under the influence (DUI). While it can be a little nerve-wracking to see flashing lights and officers waving cars forward, knowing…