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Recent Blog Posts
Understanding Public Indecency Laws in Illinois
As far as sexually-oriented offenses go, public indecency is on the less serious end of the spectrum. Often any sexual activity involved is between consenting adults, and aside from offended bystanders, there is no real victim. That said, public indecency is still a fairly serious charge. In most cases, it is a Class A Misdemeanor, the most serious category before getting into felonies. If convicted, you could face up to a year in jail or a $2,500 fine. Not to mention, you could have to register as a sex offender. The penalties actually imposed often depend very much on the specific facts of your case. There are steps an attorney can take to protect you from the harshest consequences or to challenge the charge in court. Illinois’ public indecency laws can be vague, so there is room for an attorney to make good arguments.
Explaining Public Indecency Laws, Arrests, and Potential for Conviction
What Are the Criminal Penalties for Manufacturing Methamphetamine in Illinois?
Drug crimes vary more than any other type of criminal offense In terms of jail sentences and other criminal penalties. The amount of jail time a person faces for a drug-related crime depends on the type of drug, the amount of the substance, and whether the person was accused of manufacturing or selling the drug as opposed to merely possessing the drug. Most people accused of a drug offense are overwhelmed and confused. They are unsure of what their rights are and what penalties they may face.
Manufacturing methamphetamine or “meth” is a felony offense in Illinois.
If you or a loved one were accused of operating a “meth lab” or otherwise manufacturing methamphetamine, the first step is to seek personalized advice from a criminal defense lawyer. Your attorney can answer all of your questions and provide legal guidance specific to your situation.
Producing, Preparing, or Creating Methamphetamine
What You Need to Know About Speeding in a Construction Zone Tickets
If you live in the Chicago area, you know that road construction is a constant concern. Because the chances of accidents are so much higher in construction zones, these areas are often subject to reduced speed limits. Illinois penalizes speeding in construction zones especially harshly. If you or a loved one were cited for speeding in a construction zone, a traffic law attorney may be able to help.
Driving Above the Speed Limit When There is a Construction Project
Construction projects may force drivers to drive in narrow lanes and dodge cones, construction workers, and machinery. Consequently, the maximum speed at which drivers can drive is often reduced in these areas. The penalties for speeding are also enhanced. In Illinois, speeding in a construction zone is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000. However, if you are caught speeding in a construction zone a second time within a two-year period and construction workers are present, you face a 90-day driver’s license suspension in addition to fines.
Can I Hide a Felony Conviction from Employers or Landlords?
If you were convicted of a criminal offense, you know just how much a criminal conviction can influence your life. Criminal records are often available to the general public, which means that your friends, family members, and neighbors can view the record if they want to. Furthermore, potential landlords and apartment complexes may review criminal records before leasing a house or apartment to someone. If you have a felony conviction on your record, this may prevent you from securing suitable housing. Employers may also review candidates’ criminal records through a background check before offering a job. It can be difficult to impossible to be hired if you have certain convictions on your record.
Fortunately, some people are able to hide their criminal records from most employers, landlords, lenders, and the general public by sealing their criminal records.
5 Issues With Blood Alcohol Tests That May Help You Receive an Acquittal
Being accused of drunk driving already results in automatic administrative consequences, including suspension of your driver’s license. However, a drunk driving conviction has consequences that can threaten your freedom and significantly impact your future. Criminal and administrative penalties for driving under the influence depend on your past criminal history, driving record, and the circumstances of the drunk driving arrest. You could face heavy fines and substantial jail time.
If you or a loved one were arrested for DUI, it is important to understand your defense options. One potential DUI defense strategy is to question the veracity of the blood alcohol test results. Various problems can interfere with the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing process. If a blood test is not verifiable, it may be difficult to impossible for the prosecution to secure a conviction.
3 Steps to Take If You Were Accused of a Sex Crime in Arlington Heights
Sex offenses are considered especially morally reprehensible. Allegations of sexual assault, sex abuse, rape, or a related crime can destroy a person’s life. Criminal penalties for sex crimes are harsh, and many people find that being convicted of a sex offense has irreparable personal and professional consequences.
If you or someone you care about have been accused of a sex crime, do not wait to take action. Even if the accusation is unsubstantiated, being charged with a sex offense can have serious consequences. Contact a lawyer right away.
Avoid Contact With Your Accuser
Being accused of a sex crime can come as a shock. If you are like many people facing such a situation, you probably want to confront the person who levied the allegations against you. You may be confused about what is happening and are filled with questions. You may be eager to stand up for yourself, tell your side of the story, and clear your name. However, confronting your accuser can be disastrous. Even if you approach the person in a reasonable, non-threatening way, he or she may accuse you of further abuse, stalking, or harassment. You could even be subject to an emergency order of protection or other protective order and not realize it. Consequently, it is best to avoid the accuser and only discuss the situation with your attorney.
How Does My Risk Classification Affect My DUI License Reinstatement Requirements?
Driving while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol puts both the driver and other individuals in danger. Consequently, Illinois punishes driving under the influence (DUI) with both criminal consequences and driver’s license suspension or revocation. If you were arrested for drunk driving in Illinois, it is important to know what to expect. Automatic license suspension follows a DUI arrest and if someone is convicted of DUI, they face driver’s license revocation.
It may be possible to reinstate your driver’s license and regain driving privileges after a DUI. However, you will need to complete several steps to do so. The exact requirements a DUI offender must take are largely determined by the driver’s risk classification.
Alcohol Dependency and DUI Cases in Illinois
Individuals who are arrested for DUI are required to participate in an alcohol and drug evaluation. Many people facing drunk driving charges suffer from alcoholism or addiction. The evaluation is used to determine the extent of any addiction or substance abuse problems and the chances that a DUI offender will reoffend.
Penalties for Boating Under the Influence in Illinois
Summer is approaching and many people are excited to enjoy summer activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. Alcohol and summer fun often go hand in hand. However, criminal charges for operating a boat under the influence of alcohol can bring summer enjoyment to an abrupt halt. If you are an Illinois resident, it is crucial that you understand state laws prohibiting boating under the influence (BUI) and the penalties associated with a BUI conviction.
Illinois Laws Regarding Drug and Alcohol Use on a Boat
Illinois Conservation Police report that 16 individuals lost their lives in boating accidents last year. Four of those fatalities involved impairment by drugs or alcohol. Although many people see drinking while boating as less dangerous than drunk driving, both are associated with increased risk of injuries and fatalities.
To reduce the number of boat accidents and injuries, Illinois penalizes BUI harshly. Under Illinois law, it is illegal to be in “actual physical control” of a pontoon, fishing boat, jet ski, or other watercraft if:
Clearing Up Three Misconceptions About Illinois DUIs
Drunk driving laws sometimes change and also vary significantly from state to state. This can create confusion and lead to misunderstandings. It is important for everyone to understand DUI laws–especially if they are facing criminal charges for drunk driving. If you or a loved one were charged with drunk driving in the Arlington Heights area, contact a DUI defense lawyer for legal guidance.
Misconception: You Cannot Beat a DUI if You Blew Over 0.08 Percent
Most people know that the legal limit for blood alcohol content is 0.08 percent. If a police officer suspects a driver of driving under the influence, the officer will ask the driver to blow into a breath test device. These devices, sometimes referred to as breathalyzers, assess the driver’s intoxication level. A BAC over 0.08 percent is probable cause for arrest. Many people assume that blowing over a 0.08 percent automatically means that they will be convicted of DUI. However, it is possible to avoid conviction for DUI even if you failed a breath test or breathalyzer. Breath tests can be inaccurate if the device is not calibrated or used properly. Other issues including certain medical conditions, medications, and foods can also cause breath tests to be inaccurate.
Arguing Self Defense in an Assault and Battery Case
Assault occurs when someone makes someone else afraid of impending violence. Battery is the actual physical conduct between the two people. Criminal charges for assault or battery may follow a bar fight, domestic disturbance, or even an argument that got out of hand.
Criminal penalties for assault and battery can include jail time and a permanent criminal record. If you or a loved one were charged with assault, battery, or another violent offense, it is important to explore your defense options. One way to fight criminal charges for assault or battery is to argue self-defense.
What Counts as Self-Defense?
Most people will stand up for themselves if they are provoked. Unfortunately, some people find themselves facing criminal charges for simply defending themselves. However, successfully arguing self-defense during a criminal case is easier said than done. There are limited circumstances in which injurious force is justified in Illinois law.
CALL US TODAY AT 847-253-3400 FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
Client accused of burglary was acquitted due to our skillful cross examination of eye witness identification.
Client accused of causing the death of another while driving under the influence - Acquitted.
Client accused of first degree murder - Acquitted.
Client accused of embezzlement - Charges never filed.
Hundreds of Secretary of State hearings for Drivers License Reinstatement - Won.
121 S. Wilke, Suite 301, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
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