Last Reviewed & Updated: September 27, 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 Yes. Illinois law allows…
Continue reading ›Articles Posted in Violent Crimes Defense
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 ›While arresting a suspect is a routine process for police, the act of placing a suspect under arrest is not always simple or procedural. At times, a suspect may not cooperate or create challenges. If the suspect attempts to flee or fights apprehension, they could end up facing additional charges. Resisting arrest can be a…
Continue reading ›Last Reviewed & Updated: September 27, 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 Yes. Self-defense is a…
Continue reading ›Specific measures are taken to secure and protect personal property. Whether it is in a wallet, purse, pocket, vehicle or home, individuals in Illinois and elsewhere believe that their property is safe. Thus, when property is taken or has gone missing, many presume that it was stolen. As a result, a person could face allegations…
Continue reading ›When you think of someone committing a crime, you probably naturally assume it is a violent crime. While that may not always be true, there are reasons our minds automatically think of crimes as violent. They are the types of crimes society condemns the most and the crimes that usually make the news. However, what…
Continue reading ›When people face a criminal charge in Illinois they can experience confusion along with fear and uncertainty. The confusion oftentimes comes from a lack of knowledge about court procedure in general, and the criminal justice system specifically. And, if you are facing a violent crime charge, your future is on the line. In theory, the…
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