Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
When a Second Mistake Can Cost You Everything in Chicago
In a city as large and active as Chicago, the pressure of daily life often leads people to make split-second decisions that change their future. A new DUI charge while on probation is one of those moments that can send shockwaves through your life. I’ve represented hundreds of Chicago residents who made an error in judgment, only to discover that the justice system is far less forgiving when you’re already serving probation.
Probation is a privilege—an opportunity the judge gives instead of jail time under 730 ILCS 5/5-6-2. It allows you to live and work in your community while following strict conditions. But a single new arrest, even before conviction, can trigger a violation hearing. In Cook County, probation officers are quick to report arrests, and judges have broad discretion to revoke probation if they believe you broke the law or failed to follow the rules.
