Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

Possessing a Controlled Substance Without a Valid Prescription
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Many prescription drugs are controlled substances. As such, possessing them without a valid prescription is a criminal offense. Depending on the drug involved, you may even be charged with a felony offense that carries the potential for severe penalties, including extensive incarceration. With so much at stake, it’s imperative that you understand how Illinois handles…

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What to Expect When Facing Firearms and Ammunition Charges
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Illinois law enforcement and prosecutors take weapons laws seriously and those who are charged with firearms or ammunition violations could face severe penalties if they are convicted. State law regarding possession of firearms or firearm ammunition dictates who can possess these items, how old they must be and what consequences they can face for a…

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What You Need to Know About the Illinois ‘castle Doctrine’
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Allegations of any criminal wrongdoing can threaten your freedom and your future. Accusations pertaining to violent crimes, though, can be especially threatening. And all too often, individuals who were acting within their rights at the time of the alleged offense are arrested, convicted, and stripped of their liberty, all because they don’t know how to…

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Do Police Officers Need a Warrant to Search Your Vehicle for Drugs?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Under the U.S. Constitution, law enforcement officers are generally not allowed to conduct an illegal search and seizure of any area where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy without a warrant. However, under the automobile exception, there are several ways for an officer to search your vehicle without a warrant. Here are a few…

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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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