Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

Why You Shouldn’t Talk to the Police During an Investigation
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

If you’re under investigation for committing a violent crime, then your freedom and your future is on the line. The pressure of this reality can be crushing, and it might drive you to act in a way that seems beneficial but actually turns out to be harmful to your criminal defense. This includes voluntarily talking…

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What’s the Difference Between Robbery and Burglary?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Illinois residents who are facing a violent crime charge have plenty to worry about, from perceptions by others that they are dangerous to the potential sentence that could come with a conviction – likely to include years behind bars. In order to defend yourself against allegations of crimes of violence, you need to be prepared…

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How Do Police Test for Cannabis Intoxication?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

The recreational use of cannabis has been legal in Illinois since January 1, 2020, but that doesn’t mean our state has worked out all the details. Lawmakers, law enforcement and the public are still figuring out how to deal with the issue of drugged driving. According to one recent study, between 2013 and 2021, here…

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Know the Possible Consequences of Underage Dui
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Being accused of driving under the influence in Illinois can be problematic in many ways regardless of the person’s age. However, the allegations can be more challenging for those who are under 21. With the holiday season approaching and people attending parties, gatherings and events, there will likely be alcohol and other intoxicating substances available.…

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Defending Against an Accusation of Resisting Arrest
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

If you are stopped by a police officer and are accused of resisting arrest, you could face serious penalties. Resisting arrest usually includes actions that are intended to interfere with a police officer’s attempt to detain or arrest you. Potential penalties The penalties for resisting arrest can vary based on the circumstances, but generally you…

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Evaluating Search Warrants in Drug Crime Cases
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Search warrants are common in drug cases. Some people who end up facing drug crime charges in Illinois are in that position because a search warrant was executed on their home or vehicle, for example. Obviously, any time a person is arrested there are many constitutional rights that come into play. The validity of a…

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Illinois Ends Cash Bail
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

This month, a new law went into effect in Illinois, and with it comes a major change to the state’s criminal justice system. The Pretrial Fairness Act, which went into effect Sept. 18 ends the practice of cash bail for pretrial release. This means that thousands of people who have been charged with a crime…

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Are No-Knock Warrants Legal in Illinois?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

No-knock warrants are part of a controversial practice that allows law enforcement to enter a property without knocking or announcing themselves first. They are used most commonly in cases involving drugs, weapons or other evidence that could be easily destroyed or pose a danger to the officers. However, they also raise concerns about the violation…

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Can a Criminal Conviction Impact My Future Employment?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

When a person is arrested for any reason in Illinois, it is natural for them to think about the potential consequences they might face if they are convicted. Depending on the charges, that can include incarceration, fines and other penalties. What they might not consider is the negative impact a criminal record might have as…

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