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Best of Springfield (Illinois Times) - 2025
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Best of Springfield (Illinois Times) - 2023
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Best of Springfield (Illinois Times) - 2020
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Best of Springfield (Illinois Times) - 2019
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Springfield Criminal Defense Blog

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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What a Dui Means for Illinois’ Licensed Healthcare Workers
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

If you’ve been charged with a DUI, then you’re probably worried about what the allegations mean for your future, especially if you’re a licensed healthcare professional. After all, a conviction could lead to jail time, a fine, driver’s license suspension, and harm to your reputation, but it can also have a devastating impact on your…

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Defend Against Assault Charges by Arguing Self Defense
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

If you are convicted of assault in Illinois, you could face years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. Assault is a crime of violence that requires knowingly engaging in conduct that places a person in apprehension of imminent physical harm. An assault in Illinois can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending…

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Can I Challenge an Officer’s Statements in a Traffic Citation?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

If you have been stopped by an officer in Springfield and given a traffic citation, it was likely based on the officer’s observations of your driving. The officer typically will put their observations into writing as part of the citation, generally claiming that you were driving recklessly or unsafely or violating a traffic law. However,…

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What Does Constructive Possession of Drugs Mean?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

When you think of a drug possession charge, you may naturally believe it means someone was found with drugs physically on them. Therefore, you might be surprised and confused if you are arrested for drug possession when you did not physically possess any drugs. Your arrest was likely based on the theory of constructive possession.…

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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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Client Reviews

Driving home from St Louis, halfway home my path crossed a Sangamon officer in a little sting among the interstate. I was ticketed and Officer Friendly (not his real name) provided anxiety-provoking information about an upcoming mandatory court date and all of...

jlynno111

Scott resolved my issues beyond expectations. He is not only highly knowledgeable but also takes the time to explain things clearly and thoroughly. His advice is always fair, courteous, and honest. I truly appreciate his professionalism and dedication. Scott’s...

Laura W.

I am writing to strongly recommend Scott Hanken because of his outstanding legal representation in my traffic case. I was cited following a motor vehicle accident for a violation I believed was unjust. From our first consultation through the bench trial, Mr...

Robert S.

Dear Mr. Hanken, I am writing to formally express my sincere appreciation for your exceptional legal representation and dedication in successfully securing the dismissal of the firearm charge in my case. Your professionalism, legal expertise, and attention...

Donald H.

Mr. Hanken is the definition of a genuine person. My experience was nothing short of amazing. Scott made me comfortable and heard from the moment I walked into his office. He gave me back my reputation and dignity by receiving a not guilty verdict, but most...

Nena M.

Scott Hanken saved my life. Prior to this id not been in a situation where I'd needed a lawyer. Throughout the entire process he made sure I was aware of what was going on with my case, what my options were, and was always prompt. He delivered in everything...

Anonymous

If I could give Scott Hanken 6 stars I would, I called 2 weeks prior to my court date with multiple charges against me, He gave me a great price for his services and got my charges dropped. I would personally recommend him to anyone needing legal services.

Anonymous

Scott Hanken has helped me twice in the last year with a couple of legal issues. I was super impressed with his professional attitude, compassion and kindness. His attention to detail and extensive knowledge made a stressful situation much less so and I would...

Sandy

Mr. Hanken is a fantastic attorney who I highly recommend to anyone needing representation. Excellent advocate who will give you peace of mind from the first phone call. Great communication and got me the perfect outcome, all at an extremely fair price. Thank...

Brian W.

Was my first mess up legally and it was pretty major through just what laws I acted against, didn’t know what to expect and was freaking out until my court date. Scott called and let me know that all I have to pay is a fraction of a fine, and a months...

Josiah L.

One of the most difficult and scary times of my life was handled with seamless care. AWESOME JOB I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS LAW FIRM. Scott is a pure professional very knowledgeable and more important The lines of communication were always open, which is very...

Jay T.

Scott is a phenomenal lawyer! He can truly work miracles! He’s a no holds barred kinda guy! Tells you like it is and what he can do for you, then he does it! He was recommended to me and I will recommend him to anyone that needs his services!!!! Scott is...

Rennie B.

Exceptional Follow Up and Support. W.Scott Hanken put me at ease and provided value to my understanding and overall experience. I will not hesitate to use his services if I ever need representation. Thank you so much

Jem

I found myself facing 7 charges and 2 felony charges for reckless driving, fleeing and eluding and sorts. He got ALL of the charges dismissed and I only have to pay a $500 fee and 1 year of court supervision. Nothing on my driving record. He was very...

Alison H.

Working with W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, was outstanding. The firm resolved my case quickly and professionally, kept me informed at every step, and achieved a full dismissal. I recommend them without reservation.

Alex H.

Scott is the best criminal defense lawyer. Never stops trying to get things to the best possible situation for you in a timely manner.

Gannon F.

Scott absolutely amazing the best in Springfield. With an amazing team strongly recommend 10/10.

Sasha A.

They handled everything fast and successfully! answered all my questions I had! stayed in communication the whole time. I would definitely recommend them.

Seth C.

Scott Hanken is a very good lawyer ( best ) . Dependable and always shows up for court . His fees are reasonable . I would hire Mr. Hanken again if i ever would need a lawyer .

Sami S.

I had a small fender bender in Springfield...cops showed up and gave me a failure to reduce speed ticket...i hired Scott to reduce it to a non-moving violation....prosecutor wouldn't budge so Scott had it go to trial...i live in St. Louis...Scott kept me...

Bryan L.

I recently had the pleasure of working with Scott Hanken, who successfully helped me out of a bad situation. I was impressed with Scott's meticulous attention to detail, which made all the difference. I highly recommend Scott to anyone in need of legal...

Holly G.

Scott is a phenomenal attorney. If you find yourself looking for the best criminal defense in Central Illinois, you have without a doubt found your guy. Scott knows the law inside and out and will shoot you straight in every aspect along the way. He is quick...

Austin K.

Coolest Guy and very fluent in defense law. I don’t think anyone can top him honestly. Springfield will miss him if he retires!

Dylan D.

Amazing person, considerate, gets the job done, and is very kind. Not only did Scott provide me with an outcome I wanted, but he was so personally kind to me and helped me feel secure and less stressed. I couldn't be happier with my choice to seek help from an...

Addison S.

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Our offices are located at the corner of South Fifth Street and Vine, in the historic Mary Bryant Home for the Blind.

Springfield Office
1100 S 5th St

Springfield, IL 62703