Getting a DUI can severely affect your life now and later, especially in Illinois. The state of Illinois takes DUIs exceptionally seriously, making expungements difficult, if not impossible. Unfortunately, a DUI on your record will not only stain your past history,...
Criminal Defense
What factors are considered during criminal sentencing?
The court has to consider various factors when trying to determine what sentence a person should face if they’re convicted of a crime. Sentencing factors can be divided into two main categories: aggravating factors and mitigating factors. Aggravating factors ...
Can you get your criminal record expunged?
If you have been convicted of a crime, you may be wondering if there is any way to get your criminal record expunged. This process can be complicated, but it may benefit you in the long run. What are the requirements and the process for having your criminal record...
Internet crime growing more common
There has clearly been a rise in cybercrime over the last few decades, corresponding to the general rise of the Internet. However, even when you look at recent statistics, you can see that Internet crimes are still increasing. The Internet is far from new and it is...
What everyone should know about “pleading the Fifth”
There are a lot of misconceptions about when a person can and cannot invoke their right to “plead the Fifth” or “take the Fifth” if they’re under questioning or charged with a crime. The U.S. Constitution’s Fifth Amendment says that no person “shall be compelled in...
What should you know about your Miranda rights?
If you’ve ever watched a true crime show, you’ve heard the police officers read someone their Miranda rights. This is a series of statements that are meant to tell a defendant about their rights when they’re interacting with police officers while in custody. One of...
Is it illegal to exaggerate expense reports?
You travel a lot for work, and your company covers those expenses. You can give them a report for things like food, drinks, hotels, gas and even flights. This is just intended to offset the natural costs that come along with doing your job. But you realize that it...
A new update to sexual assault laws in Illinois: What to know
Anyone who’s embarking on a sexual encounter with another person has to ensure that the person is consenting to the intimate contact. It’s possible that you could face criminal charges for sexual assault or rape if they didn’t consent to the activities. What does it...
How do courts define fraud?
If someone asked you what fraud meant, you would probably be able to come up with a general definition – for example, obtaining money by deceit. Yet, if you find yourself on the end of fraud charges, you need a much more precise legal definition to understand exactly...
The white collar crime realm: a vast, varied and complex universe
Following are two misplaced assumptions concerning the white collar criminal realm. First, there is this widespread belief: The penalties applied to defendants charged with white collar crimes are lax when compared with sentencing outcomes imposed on individuals...