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Recent Blog Posts
What Are the Consequences of Unlawful Use of a Weapon in Illinois?
Across the United States, firearms and other weapons are highly regulated in an attempt to keep them out of the hands of wrongdoers and to keep citizens safe. The state of Illinois is no exception. Illinois has some relatively strict laws when it comes to the possession and use of firearms and other weapons.
A conviction for unlawful possession of a weapon (formerly "unlawful use of a weapon") charge is typically punishable as a misdemeanor. In some cases, it can even rise to the level of a felony, significantly raising the stakes. The severity of the charge will depend on the circumstances surrounding the incident, which is why it is important to discuss the details of your case with a skilled Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense lawyer. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, has over 25 years of experience, including experience as a prosecutor.
Fighting an Order of Protection in Illinois
Orders of protection, or restraining orders, may be issued for a variety of reasons. However, they are most typically seen in cases that involve charges of stalking or domestic violence. What can you do if you have been served an order of protection? Is there any way that you can fight back? With the help of an Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense attorney, you can contest allegations of domestic violence and protect your rights.
Our firm is well aware of how stressful it can be to be served with an order of protection. As a former prosecutor with over 25 years of criminal law experience, Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, can advise you every step of the way.
When Can You Get Served With an Order of Protection?
An order of protection can be issued in a wide range of situations. Illinois law allows a court to grant one whenever someone claims they have been abused by a family member, a household member, or someone they have a close personal relationship with. That includes current or former spouses, dating partners, people who share a child, and people who live or have lived together.
Pros and Cons of Taking a DUI Plea Bargain in Illinois
Though not available in every DUI case, plea bargains may offer a way for some to avoid certain consequences of a conviction. However, defendants in DUI cases must understand the implications before deciding to accept such an offer. If you are considering a plea bargain, get in contact with an Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense lawyer today.
At Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, our lawyer has over 25 years of experience in criminal law, both as a defense attorney and prosecutor. We can review your case and help you negotiate for reduced charges. When possible, we can also fight the underlying charge as well.
Penalties for a DUI in Illinois
A first DUI in Illinois is usually a Class A misdemeanor. This can carry up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Illinois law makes it illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, intoxicating compounds, or a mix of these substances (625 ILCS 5/11-501).
Defending Against an Illinois DUI Charge
Being charged with a DUI is unnerving because a conviction can result in severe consequences. Even if you are a first-time DUI offender, you could face jail time, fines, and a driver’s license suspension for a conviction. However, a knowledgeable Arlington Heights, IL DUI defense lawyer can help. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, has been defending clients against DUI charges for more than 25 years, so you can trust us to fight for your best interests.
How Serious Is a First DUI in Illinois?
A first DUI is usually a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois (625 ILCS 5/11-501). This is the most serious type of misdemeanor. A conviction can lead to up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $2,500.
The court may also order probation, alcohol treatment, community service, and court costs. Additionally, you may face a license suspension even before the criminal case is finished. A first DUI can become even more serious if it involves a crash, a child in the car, a very high BAC, or another aggravating factor.
Adding Injury to Insult: Leaving the Scene of an Accident While Intoxicated
Driving under the influence carries strict penalties in Illinois. Being involved in an accident while under the influence can increase the severity of those penalties. However, leaving the scene of that accident (otherwise known as a hit-and-run accident) exacerbates the charges even further. If you or someone you love is facing such charges in 2026, consider working with a Rolling Meadows, IL DUI defense lawyer.
Our firm can review the accident in detail, looking for possible mitigating factors or defenses. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, has over 25 years of experience in criminal law, both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney, giving him deep insights into how to fight DUI charges.
What Is Your Duty at the Scene of an Accident in Illinois?
In Illinois, a driver involved in a crash cannot just panic and leave. The law generally requires the driver to stop as close to the scene as possible, stay there, and give identifying information. That usually includes the driver’s name, address, vehicle registration number, and, if asked and available, a driver’s license. The driver also has a duty to give reasonable help to anyone who is hurt, which can include helping the person get medical treatment or arranging transportation to a hospital when needed (625 ILCS 5/11-403).
When Are Drug Possession Charges Elevated to Possession with Intent to Deliver?
Getting charged with drug possession in Illinois is bad enough. Depending on the type of drugs that are in your possession, you may face jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, if your drug possession charges get elevated to possession with intent to deliver, you face even harsher consequences. If you are currently in this situation, it is critical to avoid talking to the police and consult a skilled lawyer promptly.
Our Arlington Heights, IL drug crime defense attorney has over 25 years of experience in criminal law. We can review your case in detail and question if the prosecution’s argument holds water.
What Does "Intent to Deliver" Mean in Illinois Drug Possession Cases?
In some cases, the police may decide to raise a regular drug possession charge to a possession with intent to deliver charge. You may be charged with intent to deliver based on certain evidence, including:
Dealing with False Domestic Battery Allegations in Illinois
Domestic battery is considered a serious offense in Illinois. This is due, in part, to the awareness and movements associated with domestic violence prevention. What do you do, though, when the allegations against you are completely false? Are you even at risk if you are truly innocent? It may seem that the obvious answer is no, you are not at risk if you have not done anything wrong. Yet this is not always the case.
Disputing allegations of domestic battery can be incredibly stressful. Our Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense lawyer has successfully defended clients accused of violent crimes. You can trust our firm to review the allegations carefully and explore all legal defenses.
Facing Sexual Assault Charges in Illinois? Here is What You Need to Know
While almost any criminal charge can have a serious and negative impact on your life and future, those that arise from sexual assault allegations can be especially devastating. In addition to having your job, freedom, and finances on the line, your reputation – and where you fit into your community – could be jeopardized. Moving will not fix anything either, since a conviction for one of these crimes will follow you wherever you go. If you are facing a sexual assault charge, you should understand what is at stake and what you can do to lessen the negative consequences of conviction.
As a former prosecutor, Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law knows what to expect and how to navigate a sexual abuse charge. When you work with our Rolling Meadows, IL criminal defense lawyer, you will benefit from a personalized legal strategy tailored to the facts of your case.
Can You Refuse a Field Sobriety Test in Illinois?
Getting pulled over for a DUI is a nerve-wracking experience. You do have rights, however, and you should exercise them to the fullest extent. This includes your right to refuse a field sobriety test. Before you do, though, there are some things you should know.
Consenting to a field sobriety test or refusing to take one can have implications for your case. An Arlington Heights, IL drunk driving defense lawyer can review your situation and help you determine the best course of action. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law has over two decades of criminal law experience, so you can trust him to provide you with clear guidance in a DUI case involving a field sobriety test.
Who Gets Arrested When Two Family Members Are Fighting?
When we hear the term "domestic violence," we usually think of violence between two people in a romantic relationship. That said, there are many times when domestic violence involves family members rather than romantic partners.
But when two relatively physically matched family members are involved in an argument that turns physical, who gets arrested? The answer to this question is not an easy one, and the police do not always get it right. If you have been arrested for domestic violence, but you were only defending yourself, it is important to speak to an experienced Rolling Meadows, IL domestic violence defense lawyer to understand your options.
Who Could Be Arrested for Domestic Violence Under Illinois Law?
Illinois criminal law says that domestic violence can apply to any two people who have any type of domestic relationship. This could include parents and children, grandparents and adult children, siblings, or even cousins, not to mention those you are related to by marriage – your in-laws.
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
847-253-3400
