Last Minute Changes to the Illinois SAFE-T Act
The SAFE-T Act has been hailed by some as an end to an oppressive cash bail system that criminalizes poverty. Others have called it a “purge law” that will release dangerous criminals into the street and render police powerless to aid their communities. Major parts of the controversial SAFE-T Act are set to take effect...
Read MoreWhy Do People Want to Steal my Catalytic Converter?
When your car burns fuel to run, it produces harmful toxins which are released into the environment. A catalytic converter is a metal device attached to the bottom of your car which makes those harmful toxins… less harmful. A catalytic converter also helps the car run more efficiently. Seems simple, right? The only problem is,...
Read MoreNew Cannabis Enforcement Issues on the Horizon
Illinois became the first state in 2019 to decriminalize the sale of cannabis. Illinois was also the first state to do so through the legislature and not a ballot initiative. The Cannabis Regulation & Tax Act of 2020 allowed adults over the age of 21 to legally purchase “recreational” marijuana from dispensaries. When this law...
Read MoreProtecting Yourself Against False Allegations of Domestic Abuse/Violence
The consequences of being falsely accused of domestic violence or abuse can be far-reaching. The allegations alone can destroy a person’s reputation and family. The alleged abuser could lose their job and face challenges looking for a new one. A conviction could also result in fines and imprisonment or probation. Fortunately, there are legal options...
Read MoreWhat Happens When You Get Arrested?
Being arrested can be frightening and stressful. You might not know your rights or what to do next. Fortunately, you can hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer to represent you. Your lawyer can guide you through the complex legal process and create a strategy to defend you against the charge or charges that you face....
Read MoreCan I Get “Day-for-Day” Credit on my Jail Sentence?
Figuring out how much time you will actually serve on your criminal prison sentence or jail sentence can be a confusing task, even for experienced lawyers. People convicted of crimes in Illinois often mistakenly assume they will receive “day-for-day” credit automatically, regardless of their charge. The phrase “day-for-day” is a legal term of art which...
Read MoreHow Does Electronic Monitoring in Chicago Work?
Currently, there are over 2,000 people on the Cook County Electronic Home Monitoring program (EM) run by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). The program is meant to ease overcrowding in the jails and allow an accused person in Chicago or elsewhere in Cook County to serve at least part of their sentence at home...
Read MoreDifferences Between Drug Trafficking and Possession
When it comes to drug crimes in Illinois, police and prosecutors generally want to punish dealers and distributors more than users. Accordingly, the potential penalties for trafficking or distributing illegal drugs are often much harsher than the penalties for simply possessing these drugs. A possession charge could send you to jail for a few months...
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About Illinois Weapons Charges
While the U.S. Constitution gives all Americans the right to keep and bear guns, there are strict laws concerning how and where guns and other lethal weapons can be used. Illinois has some of the toughest gun laws in the country, and violating these laws often carries stiff penalties. If you own a gun or...
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