Convicted felons are not allowed to possess weapons in Illinois, even if the prior felony conviction occurred in another state. The ban is total and absolute. Two brothers who are alleged to be convicted felons in possession of weapons were arrested in Springfield on...
Former Prosecutor Who Fights For Your Rights
Defense options to assault and battery charges
Not long ago this Illinois-based criminal defense blog provided its readers with a post on assault and battery charges. These crimes can result in serious penalties for those convicted and can alter the course of affected individuals’ lives. However, defendants do not...
When can you be charged with assault or battery in Illinois?
Sometimes arguments go beyond mere words and things get physical. When this happens, it could lead to more than just injuries -- it could lead to assault and battery charges. The following is a brief overview of the types of assault and battery crimes in Illinois....
Field sobriety test refusal may be beneficial in Illinois
We recently discussed how refusing a breathalyzer test during a DUI traffic stop will result in a yearlong license suspension in Illinois, but may still be worth it to possibly protect yourself from a DUI conviction. However, it is important to note that refusing a...
Should I refuse a Breathalyzer test?
Police officers often use chemical testing to determine whether a driver has been driving under the influence. Once you get your driver’s license, implied consent laws state that you are now required to submit to field sobriety or chemical testing if you are requested...
What can I get a traffic ticket on?
Not all traffic tickets are created and treated equally. While most Illinois residents may think traffic tickets are only given for speeding, this is not the case. The truth is that traffic tickets can be issued for a variety of reasons that can be broadly categorized...
Grand jury indicts drunk motorcyclist for death-related crimes
Grand juries in Illinois do not always act rapidly. For some crimes, the grand jury’s decision may follow the acts under consideration by several weeks. In a recent case arising from a motorcycle accident that occurred in the town of Channahon on Aug. 12, a Will...
Man faces multiple traffic offenses after fleeing law enforcement
When Illinois drivers are accused of committing a traffic offense, the situation can quickly spiral out of control if they make the mistake of fleeing from law enforcement. What might have been a simple stop due to a broken taillight, a lane violation or some other...
Statewide blitz targeting DUI drivers results in many arrests
It is not uncommon for law enforcement in Illinois and across the nation to have periodic enforcement periods in which they target drivers who might be under the influence. While this strategy is designed to improve safety on the road and catch drivers who are...
Can felons own a firearm?
The right to own a firearm is a guarantee in the U.S. Constitution, but if you have a felony charge on your criminal record, you lose that right. According to FindLaw, convicted felons in Illinois cannot own or have in their possession any type of firearm. In...