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 10.0 Superb - Top Divorce Attorney
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

A Springfield DUI Lawyer Who Knows Both Sides of the Courtroom

A Springfield DUI Lawyer Who Knows Both Sides Of The Courtroom

In Illinois, driving under the influence of any drug – prescription drug or illegal – carries severe penalties that can affect your future in different forms. When facing these charges, you need immediate Springfield drugged driving defense attorney’s help.

I am Scott Hanken, a former prosecutor now at W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, defending clients across Sangamon, Cass, Morgan, Montgomery and Macoupin counties. With 35 years of criminal law experience and hundreds of successful DUI cases behind me, I know exactly how prosecutors build their cases – and how to tear them down.

Different Types Of Drug-Related DUI Cases

Illinois law does not differentiate between impairment caused by alcohol and drugs. Even prescription medications can lead to a DUI if they impair your ability to drive safely. Substances that commonly lead to DUI charges include:

  • Cases involving prescription drugs that impair driving ability
  • Marijuana-related charges, even with legal possession
  • Possession of drugs in the vehicle during traffic stops
  • Cases involving heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine
  • Combined alcohol and drug impairment allegations

Having seen countless cases from both sides of the courtroom, I identify the weak points in prosecution evidence and challenge improper testing procedures.

Penalties For Drug-Related DUI In Illinois

A drug-related DUI conviction carries serious consequences:

  • Fines of up to $2,500 for a first offense
  • License suspension or revocation
  • Mandatory drug and alcohol education programs
  • Community service or probation
  • Jail time, particularly for repeat offenders

Aggravating factors, such as accidents causing injury or driving with a minor in the car, can lead to enhanced charges and penalties.

Tailored Defense Strategies

Having served as a prosecutor, I recognize critical issues like search and seizure procedures and recognize the common mistakes in drug-related DUI investigations. I can employ the following defense strategies:

  • Challenging the validity of the traffic stop
  • Investigating whether chemical tests were conducted properly
  • Highlighting issues with field sobriety tests
  • Addressing prescription drug use that did not impair driving ability

Judges and prosecutors often take a hard stance on DUI cases, which is why having strong advocacy from a lawyer like me by your side matters the most.

Time Matters In These Cases: Contact Us Today

Each passing day could mean lost evidence or missed deadlines that could help your defense. Call Scott Hanken’s Springfield office now at (217) 544-4057 or reach out online for a free consultation.

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.

Address

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

Let's Put Up a Fight.

Fill out the contact form or call us at (217) 544-4057
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