Blog
Recent blog posts

 Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense lawyerBeing accused of a felony or misdemeanor you did not commit is a nightmarish scenario for many people. Moreover, being charged or even convicted for such a crime is an even bigger nightmare. While the United States has safeguards in the legal system such as “beyond a reasonable doubt,” unfortunately, people are still found guilty, or sometimes plead guilty, for crimes they did not commit. How could this be? 

There are many reasons why people are found guilty of crimes they did not commit. In this blog, we will delve deeper into some of those reasons. At the outset, if you have been charged with a crime, your best chance for circumventing a wrongful conviction is to hire a highly competent criminal defense attorney who will protect your rights and fight to exonerate you. 

Why Would Someone Plead Guilty to a Crime They Did Not Commit? 

It may sound like lunacy, the idea that someone would ever plead guilty to something they did not do, especially since criminal convictions can devastate one’s life and career. Yet, people plead guilty to crimes they did not commit all the time. A few reasons why innocent people plead guilty to crimes include the following:

...

=Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense lawyerThe holidays are here; for many, this time of the year is a beautiful time to spend with family and friends. However, while this is a happy time for many, it is also a busy time of the year for law enforcement. As stores swell with crowds of enthusiastic and impatient shoppers, it is not uncommon for theft to spike during this time of the year. Whether it be due to overcrowded stores, a case of overzealous shoppers or someone simply swiping a package off someone’s front porch, law enforcement in Illinois is on the lookout for theft of all kinds as Christmas and the holiday season draws near.

Being charged with theft can ruin your holiday season and follow you long after the holidays have ended. If you have been charged with theft, consider contacting an experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney who ensures your rights are protected while helping you pursue the most favorable outcome possible in your case.

What Constitutes Criminal Theft in Illinois? 

A common misconception regarding theft crimes is that people rarely get in trouble for theft, and instead get only a slap on the wrist. This is not true. In Illinois, depending on what was allegedly stolen and its value, you can be looking at a Class A misdemeanor if the value of any property stolen is $500 or less. Moreover, if the property stolen is worth between $500 and $1,000, the charge is escalated to a Class 3 Felony. In instances of package theft, if items are under a total of $500, you may face up to one year in prison and fines of up to $2,500. If you steal a package that contains goods exceeding $500, you may find yourself in jail for between two and five years and fines up to $25,000.

...

Arlington Heights, IL felony DUI defense lawyerAs is true with the vast majority of the country, Illinois takes DUIs very seriously. This is mainly because when someone drives under the influence of alcohol, they endanger themselves and everyone around them. The criminal consequences of one DUI are dire enough, but what happens if you get arrested more than once or twice for a DUI? Or worse, what if you get a DUI and, in the process, someone gets hurt or killed? Unfortunately, these types of DUI rise to the level of felony DUI.

A felony DUI can have a devastating impact on your life. If you have been arrested for a felony DUI, understand that your freedom is in jeopardy because if you are convicted, you may be subject to lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. Contact an experienced felony DUI lawyer who will tirelessly defend your rights and do everything possible to keep you out of prison.

The Consequences of Numerous DUIs

In Illinois, depending on the circumstances, a first or second DUI is generally considered to be a misdemeanor offense. This is not to say that getting one or two DUIs is not serious because this is false. It is very serious. But it is also generally true, however, that many individuals who receive one or two DUIs, with no other aggravating factors, will likely avoid serious prison time and will eventually be able to regain their driving privileges. 

...

arlington heights traffic ticket lawyerLike the speed of cars has increased over the years, so have the price and consequences of speeding tickets. Chances are that you will receive a traffic violation at some point in your life. Traffic violations like speeding tickets can be not only annoying, but they can also be costly. It is essential to keep in mind that when dealing with a speeding ticket, you need to remember that you have options. 

Depending on how fast you were going, speed tickets can have a genuine impact on one’s life, ranging from fines of $75 escalating up to having your license suspended. If you have received a speeding ticket and have chosen to fight the ticket in traffic court, do not go about it alone. Consulting with a trained attorney can make the difference between paying the fine and possibly facing other consequences or having the ticket thrown out by the judge. 

Considerations for Beating a Speeding Ticket

As soon as you find yourself pulled over, be kind to the police officer who pulled you over. Regardless of your opinion of law enforcement, remember that just like you, they are humans and wish to be treated kindly. Always treat officers with respect. It would be best if you kept in mind that the officer’s memory of you can make a huge difference in your case. You do not want to give the officer a reason to remember you in traffic court. Be cordial and then take your ticket.

...

arlington heights domestic violence lawyerBeing accused of a crime can be distressing, especially if you believe you are innocent of the accusations being brought against you. In Illinois, crimes like domestic violence carry stiff penalties, possible jail time, and devastating interpersonal consequences. Law enforcement does not look kindly upon domestic abusers, and the same goes for the public. When you are accused of a crime like domestic violence, public sentiment often assumes the accused as being automatically guilty.

If you have been accused of domestic violence, you must understand the seriousness of the situation. You want, at all costs, to avoid being charged with such a crime, as once you are charged, even if you are found not guilty, your personal and professional reputation may be at considerable risk of irreversible damage. If you find yourself accused of domestic violence, do not hesitate to contact an experienced domestic violence attorney who will protect your rights and advise you on how best to proceed, to safeguard your future. 

Why Hire a Lawyer? 

When you are accused of a crime, particularly a serious crime like domestic violence, you should always consider contacting an attorney who has experience in these matters. Domestic violence cases can be complex, so the sooner you consult and hire a lawyer, the sooner you can build your defense strategy. Hiring a lawyer with not only experience in domestic violence cases but also a proven track record of successfully representing clients is essential. While you may not be charged yet with a crime, it is best to prepare for worst-case scenarios. 

...

CALL US TODAY AT 847-253-3400 FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION