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 THE SHORT ANSWER The Trump administration’s 2026 rollback of more than three dozen federal…
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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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Suppressors are among the most popular firearm accessories sold in the United States. Also known as silencers, suppressors help limit the noise generated when discharging a firearm. Using a suppressor can protect people who routinely shoot for hunting or training purposes from hearing damage. Suppressors also help limit recoil after firing, which can reduce cumulative…
Continue reading ›Illinois residents who want to protect themselves and their loved ones if they encounter a sudden attack may decide to buy and carry a knife for defense. It’s important to know that Illinois has some complicated knife laws compared to some other states. While the state does ban possession and sale of throwing stars and…
Continue reading ›The consequences of a felony conviction can extend far into your future, limiting your freedom and opportunities. One of the most significant consequences is the loss of your right to own a firearm. Is this a permanent restriction? Can a convicted felon ever legally own a firearm again, or are they forever barred from exercising…
Continue reading ›Generally, it is legal to carry a firearm on your person while driving as long as it is concealed and you have a valid Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL). Additionally, you must have a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card under your name. However, having a gun in your car, whether it is on your person…
Continue reading ›Mixing booze and guns could be a recipe for disaster. If you’re a gun owner who likes to knock back a few, you might be wondering about the rules in Illinois. The state has some pretty clear laws on this topic. Keeping these rules in mind can keep you safe and away from trouble. The…
Continue reading ›Weapons can pose significant dangers when misused, leading to severe consequences for individuals and communities. Illinois has strict laws to regulate weapon possession and usage to maintain public safety. Understanding the types of weapon offenses like carrying brass knuckles, is critical for ensuring compliance with the law and avoiding legal penalties. Types of weapon offenses…
Continue reading ›Over the past five years, well over 30,000 Illinois residents have been convicted of a charge known as “unlawful use of a weapon.” Critics say this charge is unnecessarily broad, and a new bill working its way through the state legislature could help narrow it down by simply changing its name. House Bill 4500 would…
Continue reading ›Owning a firearm is a right afforded by the second amendment, and many residents in Illinois choose to exercise this right. While this is established to be a right, it is a right that could be revoked if one is convicted of a serious crime. The misuse or mishandling of a firearm could have dire…
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