Criminal Defense

Just as technology makes advances on what seems like a daily basis, the laws governing the use of and access to technological devices is still evolving. A case currently making its way through Illinois courts addresses just this issue, and, as it stands, law enforcement now can require an owner to unlock their cell phone […]

In the wake of one of the country’s deadliest acts of gun violence, Illinois legislators attempted to pass a bill that would prohibit the use of “bump stocks” and other means for modifying the trigger action of semi-automatic weapons. Officials from both parties objected to all or parts of the bill, which gained only 48

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

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

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

Every year, studies are conducted during which Illinois prison inmates are interviewed and records reviewed to determine the most common types of crimes being committed across the state. This information provides a glimpse into the criminal justice system, as well as the people who make up the state’s inmate population. A Notorious Top 10 While

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

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

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,

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