Joliet Criminal Defense Blog

Illinois criminal law updates, case analysis, and legal guidance from former Will County prosecutor Jack L. Zaremba.

Illinois Man Sentenced to 20 Years for $2 Million Worth of Drugs

The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees citizens the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures conducted by agents of the state, including law enforcement officials. Of course, these rights are constantly being debated as new scenarios and technologies arise. Over the years, courts throughout the country have provided direction regarding when

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Suspect Facing Charges for Pushing Man onto CTA Tracks While Drunk

At one point or another in our lives, we have all made questionable decisions. In some situations, it is reasonable to say that alcohol affected our judgment, but when the decisions in question lead to illegal behavior, having too much to drink is not a valid justification. Alcohol is certainly not an excuse when a

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One Act, One Crime Doctrine

When a person is arrested, it is not uncommon for him or her to face multiple charges related to the circumstances. In Illinois, however, a criminal defendant can only be convicted of one crime that corresponds to a particular action, even if that action could constitute more than one offense. This doctrine was upheld again

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Illinois Traffic Laws for School Buses and Road Maintenance Vehicles

When first learning to drive, some are taught a little rhyme to help them in certain situations. The saying goes, “For sirens and lights, pull to the right.” However, yielding the right of way, slowing down, and even stopping your vehicle is not just for fire trucks, police vehicles, and ambulances, as Illinois traffic laws

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Local Officer Skips Arrest – Offers Kindness Instead

When police officer Mario Valenti responded to an alleged trespassing call from a gym and fitness club in Skokie, he could have taken a hard line. Instead, upon encountering the alleged trespasser—a 15-year-old aspiring basketball player—Valenti opened his wallet and offered the boy an opportunity. According to the Chicago Tribune and a number of other

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Lake County Illinois Gun Raffle Continues in Wake of Tragedy

Last week, the entire world was horrified to learn of a mass shooting that claimed the lives of 58 individuals in Las Vegas—the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history. According to official reports, a single gunman allegedly unleashed hundreds of rounds from an upper-level hotel room into a large crowd of people attending a

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