For many, spending an afternoon on the water may be an ideal form of relaxation. There are few things better than cruising around the lake in a boat while enjoying the company of friends or family. It is hardly surprising, however, that a large number of boaters also incorporate alcohol into their recreational activities. When […]
Drinking and Boating Can Cost You Your License Read More »
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
Lake County Illinois Gun Raffle Continues in Wake of Tragedy Read More »
Interscholastic and youth sports serve a number of purposes for those who participate in them. Boys and girls can learn a great deal from being part of a team, including self-discipline, sportsmanship, and the importance of fair play, in addition to the benefits of increased exercise. Unfortunately, parents and coaches often lose sight of the
Illinois Law Protects Referees From Assault Read More »
Courtroom dramas on TV and in the movies often provide the public with a glimpse of the legal process, frequently including tense exchanges between witnesses, attorneys, and judges resulting in an objection to hearsay testimony and a ruling of “sustained” from the bench. However, a recent ruling by the Illinois State Supreme Court could have
Illinois Supreme Court Upholds Drew Peterson Murder Conviction – “Drew’s Law” Remains Read More »
Often described as a “harmless rite of passage,” or “tradition among members,” the issue of hazing frequently makes the news when an injury or even death occurs. When this happens, it is necessary for police to get involved, and that may result in those involved facing serious criminal charges. Hazing Laws in Illinois In 2014,
When Criminal Charges Arise from “Harmless” Hazing Read More »
Any time that a person is arrested on suspicion of criminal activity, a record of the arrest is created. That record remains a part of the person’s criminal history regardless of whether he or she is ever convicted. The arrest remains even if formal charges are never filed or are dismissed along the way. Having
Will My Criminal Arrest Automatically Disappear if I Avoid a Conviction? No. Read More »
Earlier this year, Illinois officials announced that the total number of annual applications for concealed carry permits were on the decline. However, when it comes to legally owning and carrying guns, it turns out that certain segments of the population have maintained a steady interest in self defense and exercising their 2nd Amendment rights. Citizen
Does Race or Gender Influence Concealed Carry Permit Applications? Read More »
Since the installation of red light cameras began throughout Illinois, much debate has occurred over the effectiveness of these once heralded traffic control tools. A great deal of controversy surrounds the issuing of traffic tickets to motorists, and people have questioned whether the cameras are a safety device or a revenue generating resource for municipalities.
Illinois Red Light Cameras Source of Much Controversy Read More »
As protests both peaceful and violent become more and more common in cities across the United States, it might be a good idea to understand in advance the rights one is afforded when taking part in such an activity. Of course, the 1st Amendment protects every citizen’s right to free speech, but knowing how your
Protecting Yourself During a Lawful Protest Read More »
Recently, a post on this blog discussed the two different types of drug possession that could lead to criminal charges. “Actual possession” refers to drugs on an individual’s person, such as in a pocket or in a backpack that he or she is carrying at the time of the search or arrest. “Constructive possession,” by
Drug Possession Charges: What Do You “Know?” Read More »
If you have ever watched a television show about crime such as Law & Order or COPS, you have probably heard many of the typical claims a suspect makes when he or she is found to be in possession of illegal drugs. He or she might say “Those aren’t mine!” or “These are my friend’s!”
Actual vs Constructive Possession: Drug Possession Charges in Illinois Read More »
Recently, we used this space to discuss the issue of search warrants and the threshold of evidence that constitutes probable cause. Furthermore, we addressed the matter as it related to an incident involving a nurse and the police that made national news when police attempted to obtain a blood sample without a warrant from an
Understanding Your Rights When Police Ask For a Blood Test Read More »
