Justia Rating Badge 10
Best DWI Attorney Top Rated 2017
Rated by Super Lawyers
Avvo Top Contributor in Criminal Defense 2013
Avvo 10.0 Superb - Top Criminal Defense Attorney
Top 10 Best Attorney Client Satisfaction - American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys 2024
Avvo Client's Choice in Criminal Defense 2014
Avvo Top Contributor in Criminal Defense 2016
Rated by Super Lawyers
Top 10 Criminal Defense Law Firm 2023 - Attorney and Practice Magazines
Top 10 Criminal Defense Law Firm 2020 -  Attorney and Practice Magazines
Martindale-Hubbell - Distinguised Peer rated
Best of Springfield 2023 Winner - Illinois Times
Best of Springfield 2022 Winner - Illinois Times
The Official Community Choice Awards Springfield
The Official Community Choice Awards Springfield 2023
2022 Readers' Choice - The State Journal-Register
10 Best Attorney Client Satisfaction - American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
Elite Lawyer in Criminal Defense 2023
Lawyers of Distinction 2023
Best of the Best - Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2024
Best of the Best - Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2025
NACDA Top Ten Ranking 2025
5-Star Rating in Google
Avvo Excellent Top Attorney Criminal Defense DUI & DWI

Springfield Criminal Defense Blog

Four Key Ways to Deal with a Witness Who Lacks Credibility
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Although the prosecution may present physical evidence against you in your case, they’re probably going to heavily rely on witness testimony to try to obtain a conviction. Since the trier of fact, either the judge or jury, will be tasked with assigning that testimony with the appropriate amount of weight, you have to ensure that…

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When Is Self-Defense a Legitimate Defense to Battery Charges?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Facing criminal charges for physical battery is a serious matter, and a conviction can have lasting consequences for your life. The situation is even worse when you feel that you don’t deserve the charges because you were merely defending yourself or someone else when you engaged in the physical altercation. Under specific circumstances, you can…

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Defending Against a Drug Possession Charge
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Drug charges involving the selling, trafficking or possession of illegal drugs are severe in every state. When the amounts of a drug in possession are high, authorities often add on the additional charge of trafficking, which can trigger much more serious federal charges. If the suspect is carrying a firearm at the time of arrest,…

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I Drank and Drove. Now, What Do I Do?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

We have all seen the commercials, the traffic signs and the radio commercial: “don’t drink and drive,” “drink, drive, go to jail,” etc. However, life happens and we all make mistakes. Sometimes, those mistakes can lead to drinking and driving, but if one is pulled over at this point, what do they do? Mitigation The…

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Common Weapons-Related Charges
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

Weapons offenses are serious criminal charges that can lead to serious possible criminal penalties and consequences. Because individuals accused of committing weapons crimes can face the potential loss of their freedom, fines and other possible penalties and consequences, they should be familiar with how to protect themselves from these charges. The most common types of…

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How Can Accused Drivers Challenge a Breathalyzer Test?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

If a breathalyzer test led to drunk driving charges, accused drivers can benefit from understanding how they may be able to challenge a breathalyzer test. Accused drivers should be familiar with all of their criminal defense options and how they may be able to help them fight drunk driving charges. How can accused drivers challenge…

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What Are the Potential Penalties for a Second Dui?
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

People in Illinois drink alcohol for many different reasons. There is generally nothing wrong with consuming alcohol either, however, some of the choices they make while drinking can cause trouble for themselves and others. One choice that can get people in trouble with the law is deciding to drive after they have consumed too much…

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The Crime of Armed Robbery in Illinois
W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law Team

A charge of armed robbery should be taken very seriously, as it can carry significant penalties and consequences. Under Illinois law, armed robbery is a Class X felony, which means there is a mandatory prison sentence of between 6 to 30 years. Penalties may be adjusted, or prison time extended depending on the specific facts…

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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