Last Reviewed & Updated: August 28, 2026 By: W. Scott Hanken | Former Sangamon County Prosecutor | Springfield Criminal Defense & Violent Crimes Defense Attorney | Voted “Best Attorney” — Illinois Times Best of Springfield & State Journal-Register Reader’s Choice | Springfield, IL | Sangamon County | (217) 544-4057 | hankenlaw.com Illinois does not recognize…
Continue reading ›Articles Posted in Violent Crimes Defense
Last Reviewed & Updated: August 20, 2026By: W. Scott Hanken | Former Sangamon County Prosecutor | Springfield Criminal Defense & Violent Crimes Defense Attorney | Voted “Best Attorney” — Illinois Times Best of Springfield & State Journal-Register Reader’s Choice | Springfield, IL | Sangamon County | (217) 544-4057 | hankenlaw.com Springfield families trust caregivers with…
Continue reading ›Last Reviewed & Updated: July 23, 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 In Illinois, you violate an order of…
Continue reading ›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…
Continue reading ›Last Reviewed & Updated: August 20, 2026 By: W. Scott Hanken | Former Sangamon County Prosecutor | Springfield Criminal Defense & Violent Crimes Attorney | Voted “Best Attorney” — Illinois Times Best of Springfield & State Journal-Register Reader’s Choice | Springfield, IL | Sangamon County | (217) 544-4057 | hankenlaw.com In a lot of states,…
Continue reading ›Illinois law does allow the use of force, including weapons, in self-defense. However, it applies only in specific situations. The key issue is whether the use of force was necessary to prevent harm. Here’s what you need to know about when using a weapon in self-defense may be legally justified. When force is considered lawful…
Continue reading ›Last Reviewed & Updated: August 20, 2026 By: W. Scott Hanken | Former Sangamon County Prosecutor | Springfield Criminal Defense & Violent Crimes Attorney | Voted “Best Attorney” — Illinois Times Best of Springfield & State Journal-Register Reader’s Choice | Springfield, IL | Sangamon County | (217) 544-4057 | hankenlaw.com An aggravated battery charge in…
Continue reading ›For some, an intense argument may lead to physical altercations. When this happens, it not only results in injuries but potential assault and battery charges as well. Aggravated assault involves more severe circumstances compared to simple assault and carries heavier penalties. Understanding the difference and its consequences can make individuals make informed decisions. Defining aggravated…
Continue reading ›Last Reviewed & Updated: August 28, 2026 By: W. Scott Hanken | Former Sangamon County Prosecutor | Springfield Criminal Defense & Violent Crimes Defense Attorney | Voted “Best Attorney” — Illinois Times Best of Springfield & State Journal-Register Reader’s Choice | Springfield, IL | Sangamon County | (217) 544-4057 | hankenlaw.com Most of what people…
Continue reading ›When someone faces violent crime charges, the stakes are already high. But what happens if they have prior convictions? Understanding the potential impact of past legal struggles on new violent crime charges is crucial for anyone going through the intricacies of the justice system. The weight of history Prior convictions do not just fade away;…
Continue reading ›




















