Some people get arrested for drug offenses in Illinois because police officers find something in their backpacks, purses or pockets that they believe is contraband. Those individuals could then face prosecution that could lead to a variety of penalties and also a...
Criminal Defense
3 ways people accused of crimes in Illinois can avoid a trial
There are many reasons why someone accused of a crime in Illinois might want to avoid a criminal trial. Perhaps they worry about the long-term reputation damage that could accompany any media attention paid to their prosecution. Maybe they worry about the cost...
Assault and battery in Illinois: are they the same crime?
It is essential to understand the differences between assault and battery because these terms are often used interchangeably, even though they have different legal meanings. While a person can commit both crimes in the same act, a person can also commit one of the...
People judge intoxication levels based on their environment
Many people attempt to avoid getting a DUI simply by paying attention to their own feelings of intoxication. They will drive to a bar or restaurant with friends, knowing that this opens up the potential for drunk driving on the way home. And they (wisely) tell...
Ways to get out of jail after an arrest
If you've been arrested and charged with a crime, you may not have to stay in jail while waiting for your trial. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you might be able to secure your release through bail, a bond or being released on your own recognizance....
Why do courts let people out on bail?
When someone posts bail, they can pay a certain amount of money to the court so that they don’t have to stay in jail until their trial. They can go home or to another location. They still have to come back for the trial (or an alternative hearing if they choose to...
The importance of state lines in drug cases
When it comes to drug charges, exactly where you are when you get arrested can play a big role. It may even change how the police view the event that is occurring. For example, moving drugs across state lines may make it appear that you are trying to traffic those...
What kinds of plea deals are possible?
The wheels of justice would probably stop turning entirely if plea deals didn’t provide the grease to keep them moving. Plea deals (plea bargains) are agreements made between the prosecution and the defense – usually in the interest of resolving the case as quickly...
Means, motive and opportunity: How important are they?
You’ve probably heard the phrase “means, motive and opportunity” applied to one criminal case or another – if only on television shows. Unfortunately, those shows often confuse people about the real criminal law process. It may surprise you to realize that prosecutors...
2 benefits of going through the Illinois drug courts
Quite a few people accused of criminal activity in Illinois broke drug laws. There are regulations that apply to prohibited substances and also controlled substances, like narcotic pain relievers. Just possessing, making or purchasing a specific substance could lead...