Most people believe that a breathalyzer test is a reliable and accurate way for police to determine if a driver is intoxicated. What they don’t realize is that these devices can be fooled by completely legal, everyday products—like mouthwash or breath fresheners. In fact, a surprising number of DUI arrests…
Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
When the Government Takes Your Property: Understanding Illinois Drug Asset Forfeiture and How to Fight It
Imagine being pulled over by police in Chicago. Maybe they claim they smell something suspicious or they believe you’re acting nervously. They search your car and find a few hundred—or a few thousand—dollars in cash. No drugs are found. No charges are filed. And yet, your money is seized and…
Driving on Medical Marijuana in Illinois: Can You Really Be Charged with DUI?
For Illinois residents who rely on medical cannabis, the law provides safe, legal access to relief. But despite having a valid medical marijuana card, patients are still being arrested and charged with DUI every day—simply for driving after using their legally prescribed medication. This harsh reality has left many wondering:…
Why a DUI in Your Personal Car Could Still Disqualify Your CDL in Illinois
If you’re a commercial driver in Illinois, your CDL isn’t just a license—it’s your livelihood. It’s how you support your family, pay your bills, and build your future. That’s why one of the most devastating surprises for many CDL holders in Chicago is discovering that a DUI arrest in their…
Arrested for DUI in Illinois But Found Not Guilty? Here’s How to Expunge the Record
If you’ve gone through the trauma of being arrested for DUI in Illinois—especially in a city like Chicago—you already know how quickly your life can change. A single traffic stop can lead to public embarrassment, missed work, and months of courtroom appearances. But if your case ended with a not…
Can Dashcams Really Help You Fight a DUI in Illinois?
A DUI arrest in Illinois can leave you overwhelmed, uncertain, and searching for answers. If you had a dashcam running during the stop, you’re probably wondering whether that footage can help your case—or if it even matters. The good news is, dashcams are not only legal in Illinois, but they’re…
Can Dashcams Really Help Your DUI Case in Illinois?
If you’ve been pulled over for DUI in Illinois—especially in a city like Chicago where traffic stops are common—your vehicle’s dashcam may be one of your strongest allies. While dashcams are often marketed as tools for proving fault in accidents, they also serve another crucial purpose: defending against criminal charges,…
Fighting for What’s Yours: Understanding Criminal Asset Forfeiture in Chicago
When the government seizes your money, car, or other property in connection with a criminal investigation, it can feel like your life is being dismantled piece by piece. In Chicago, criminal asset forfeiture has become a frequent and aggressive tactic used by law enforcement, often without a conviction and sometimes…
DUI Charges in Illinois Based on Synthetic Cannabinoids: What You Need to Know
Driving under the influence in Illinois doesn’t always involve alcohol. In recent years, the rise of synthetic cannabinoids like K2 and Spice has presented a growing concern for law enforcement in Chicago and surrounding counties. While many drivers assume these products are legal or undetectable, the truth is far more…
What Are the Fines and Jail Time for a Second DUI Offense in Illinois?
A Second DUI in Illinois: What You’re Really Facing and Why It Matters The first time you’re arrested for DUI in Illinois, you’re often scared, embarrassed, and uncertain about what comes next. The court might offer you supervision, and there’s often a belief—especially among first-time offenders—that this will all pass…