Last Reviewed & Updated: July 28, 2026 By: W. Scott Hanken | Former Sangamon County Prosecutor | Springfield Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney |Voted “Best Attorney” — Illinois Times Best of Springfield & State Journal-Register Reader’s Choice | Springfield, IL • Sangamon County • (217) 544-4057 • hankenlaw.com Direct Answer: Under the Illinois Hemp Act…
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Have you been arrested for DUI in Springfield or Sangamon County and received a notice of suspension from the Illinois Secretary of State? If cannabis was involved, you may face two separate administrative license suspensions — not just one. Many local drivers ask questions like: This comprehensive post breaks it all down with real-world problem-solving…
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Facing a criminal charge or DUI in Springfield can be overwhelming. The anxiety of the unknown is compounded by the logistical nightmare of getting to the Sangamon County Courthouse, taking time off work, and finding childcare. Fortunately, the landscape of Illinois courts has shifted dramatically. Effective March 1, 2026, significant amendments to Illinois Supreme Court…
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As an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney practicing in Springfield, Illinois for over 35 years, I’ve fought tooth and nail for countless clients slapped with DUI charges based on flimsy evidence. Time and again, I see police officers from the Springfield Police Department, Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department and Illinois State Police leaning on the…
Continue reading ›What Is Illinois’ Implied Consent Law for Cannabis Impairment, and How Does It Affect Springfield Drivers? As a leading criminal and DUI defense lawyer in Springfield, Illinois, I’ve seen firsthand how the evolving landscape of cannabis laws can create confusion for drivers in Sangamon County. With recreational cannabis legal since 2020, many residents assume they’re…
Continue reading ›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…
Continue reading ›Facing drug charges can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. The legal system may seem like an intricate maze, and understanding your rights and options is crucial. If you or someone you care about is in this situation, you’re not alone. Many have successfully navigated this path with the right defense strategies. In this blog,…
Continue reading ›Every year, many people find themselves trapped in a system that seems more focused on punishment than rehabilitation. In the state, over-incarceration for drug offenses is a growing issue that affects not just individuals but entire communities. This short blog will explore why this happens and what it means for those facing drug charges. After…
Continue reading ›Facing a drug charge is tough, and the penalties can go beyond jail time or fines. The long-term consequences of a drug conviction can ripple through various aspects of your life, creating challenges you might not expect. Employment opportunities A drug charge can make job hunting more difficult. Many employers conduct background checks, and a…
Continue reading ›Yes, they can do so under the Drug Asset Forfeiture Procedure Act (DAFPA). This law allows law enforcement to take property without warning if they believe it was a location or tool used for illegal drug activities. Seized assets can include money, cars, houses and personal items. DAFPA aims to stop drug offenders from profiting,…
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