Most people in Chicago assume a DUI is only a misdemeanor if it’s your first offense. While that’s often true, Illinois law allows prosecutors to file aggravated DUI charges even against first-time offenders. That means a driver with no prior record could face felony charges and prison time based on…
Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
From Arrest to Verdict: What Defendants Should Know About Criminal Trials in Illinois
Facing criminal charges in Illinois is never simple. Whether you’ve been arrested for DUI, aggravated battery, or drug possession, the process that unfolds in a Chicago courtroom can be overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the criminal justice system. Many people underestimate how long and complex a criminal…
Understanding The Legal Line Between Resisting Arrest And Obstruction In Illinois
If you’ve ever found yourself in a heated moment with law enforcement—whether during a traffic stop, protest, or even an unexpected visit to your home—you know how quickly things can escalate. In Chicago and throughout Illinois, police are quick to assert control over a situation. When emotions run high, it’s…
Aggravated Speeding in Illinois
Why You Should Never Face This Charge Alone In Chicago and throughout Illinois, aggravated speeding is not something you can afford to ignore. Many drivers mistakenly believe it’s just a traffic ticket—but the reality is far more serious. Aggravated speeding is a criminal offensethat can lead to jail time, a…
Refusing to Answer Police Questions in Illinois: Can You Be Arrested?
In Chicago and cities across Illinois, people have daily encounters with law enforcement—whether during traffic stops, street encounters, or investigations into a suspected crime. A common question that comes up is: Can I be arrested just for refusing to answer questions from a police officer? While many believe silence is…
Why BUI Arrests Happen More Often Than You Think—Even When No One Claims to Be Operating
In Chicago, boating is a favorite pastime during warmer months. With access to Lake Michigan and numerous other waterways, residents and tourists alike take to the water to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the sun. Unfortunately, the mix of alcohol and boating—while often socially accepted—can quickly result in criminal charges. One…
Understanding Law Enforcement Authority on the Water: Who Can Stop You for BUI in Illinois?
It’s a warm weekend afternoon, and you’re enjoying time with friends on your boat near Chicago’s lakefront. Everything seems peaceful until you see flashing blue lights approaching from another vessel. Minutes later, you’re pulled over, questioned, and eventually arrested for Boating Under the Influence (BUI). You weren’t speeding. You didn’t…
Facing an Obstruction Charge in Illinois? Here’s What It Really Means and What You Should Do
A sudden arrest. A routine stop that escalates. A heated moment between civilians and police. In Chicago, these situations happen every day—and sometimes they result in a charge that surprises people: obstruction of a peace officer. You might not have been violent. You may not have even touched the officer.…
How Do I Defend Against an Obstruction Charge in Chicago?
Arrested for Obstruction in Chicago? Here’s What You Need to Know to Fight Back Getting accused of obstructing an officer in Chicago can feel like you’ve been criminalized for asserting your rights. Maybe you didn’t answer a question fast enough. Maybe you recorded an arrest. Maybe you were simply standing…
How a DUI Arrest in Chicago Can Be Based on a Medical Misunderstanding
And What a Skilled Lawyer Can Do About It Being arrested for DUI is frightening under any circumstances. But it can feel downright surreal when you haven’t had anything to drink—and still find yourself in handcuffs. This happens more often than people realize, especially in Chicago, where officers frequently rely…