When you file for bankruptcy, one of the things to remember is that the bankruptcy affects your credit for a specific number of years. Whether you file for Chapter 13 or 7 bankruptcy, it remains on your credit report for up to 10 years. This will hurt your credit, at...
Northern Illinois Criminal Defense And Real Estate Law Blog
Can your drinking give you a defense against assault charges?
Most of the time, you are a good-natured and amiable person. You get along with others and have fun in social settings. However, at a party or maybe a bar, someone starts an argument with you. If you've already had a couple of drinks, things get heated more quickly...
What problems can occur when closing on a home?
Buying your first home is an exciting prospect, but it can also be confusing and stressful. Having saved for years, you want to be sure you spend your money wisely. There is a lot to learn about the real estate process, from understanding how much a mortgage will end...
Can the police enter your home when they’re pursuing you for a minor offense?
Just how absolute is your right against the warrantless intrusion of your home by the authorities? Broader than you may realize. The police generally have the right to enter a home when they’re in “hot pursuit” of a suspect or “exigent circumstances” make them believe...
Can you avoid jail by participating in McHenry County drug court?
A little dabbling in recreational drugs seems like no big deal, but that is not how McHenry County authorities view such situations. If you are facing drug charges, the state will likely seek prosecution. As you might expect, this puts your freedom and your job in...
What are the assault and battery laws and penalties in Illinois?
Most states treat violent crimes harshly, and Illinois is no exception. Assault and battery are two violent crimes that often lead to severe penalties if the state succeeds in its prosecution efforts. However, you can overcome your situation. The first step is...
3 reasons a consolidation loan isn’t as good as bankruptcy
If you are having trouble with your finances because of medical bills, high expenses, job loss or other issues, you may be wondering if you should try bankruptcy or attempt to consolidate your debts. One of your options might be a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which would...
How long does bankruptcy take?
You know that you want to file bankruptcy. You’ve gone over all of your options. It seems to make the most sense. It’s been a trying year and this is the best way forward. What you’re really curious about isn’t whether or not this is the right decision, but how long...
Could bankruptcy bring emotional relief as well as financial relief?
People who have balances with creditors that they can’t pay often feel considerable stress. They might realize that they need to do something about the issue, but they may not have the ability to eke any more money out of the budget to pay for the bills. For those...
Can you intentionally avoid a DUI checkpoint?
A DUI checkpoint (which is often called a "sobriety" checkpoint), is essentially just a roadblock that obliges drivers to stop. There, the police will usually chat with a driver to try to determine if they might be impaired. If the officer suspects a driver is...
