First-degree murder constitutes the most serious homicide charge you can face in Illinois. Homicide itself means killing someone deliberately and without authority of law. Illinois Criminal Code Chapter 720, Section 5/9-1, contains the laws applying to first-degree...
Former Prosecutor Who Fights For Your Rights
Can I get a DUI for driving high?
Illinois is one of a few states that includes drug use in its DUI laws. The statute itself explains its intention in the title, “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drug or drugs, intoxicating compound or compounds or any combination thereof.” If you...
What are drivers license points in Illinois?
On top of fines, traffic tickets can have an adverse effect on your life in another form: license points. The state stacks these on driving records as well to determine when to consider suspension or outright revocation for your driving privileges. Many traffic...
What is the difference between misdemeanors and felonies?
Dealing with the criminal system in the US can be overwhelming, but the first step is understanding legal terminology. Most people have heard about misdemeanors and felonies, but it is important to understand how these are different and what impact they may have on...
Distracted driving and common DUI penalty
For many people in Illinois, the loss of one's driving privileges due to a driving under the influence offense may create significant hardships. Without the right to drive, a person may be unable to keep a job, for example. Some DUI defendants may reinstate their...
Can police arrest me for burglary if I did not steal anything?
Society often speaks of robbery and burglary together, and so they might be two of the most frequently confused criminal offenses by the general public. In fact, they have very little in common beyond the goal of committing a crime. You do not have to steal, or even...
What happens when a valid prescription leads to drug charges?
Rather than taking illegal substances, your recent drug charges stemmed from a valid medication. Do you understand why this happened? The Recovery Village explains how taking a prescription medication in the wrong place at the wrong time could lead to a...
What are Illinois’ ignition interlock laws?
All 50 states have ignition interlock device laws DUI offenders. However, the specifics of interlock device laws between states. In the state of Illinois, both first-time and subsequent offenders must install an ignition interlock device on their cars if they wish to...
Even minor traffic tickets may have severe consequences
There are many different types of moving violations that may result in traffic tickets in Illinois. Speeding, reckless driving and illegal lane usage are just a few of the driving behaviors that lead to tickets and driver's license points. While most people are...
Weapons charge may result from posting gun images on social media
Illinois law requires residents who wish to own weapons to apply for a Firearm Owners Identification card. Law enforcement officials may, however, rescind an individual’s FOID card for a variety of reasons, including domestic violence or mental health issues. As noted...