Wrongful convictions and the imprisonment that follows can be the bane of any criminal justice system. In an effort to ameliorate the effects of the wrongful convictions of four men, The Chicago City Council recently approved a settlement with four men who were wrongfully convicted of rape and murder in 1994. The case represents a significant triumph for the criminal defense lawyers who represented the four men.
Expunging criminal records in Illinois
Illinois has one of the nation's broadest expungement statutes in the nation, but some of its provisions can be difficult to understand. In this post, the basic requirements of expungement will be set forth.
Illinois man charged with aggravated DUI after fatal accident
Most people in Southeastern Illinois understand the risks of driving while being intoxicated by alcohol. The risks from intoxication caused by drugs is not as well understood. A recent traffic fatality in Madison County demonstrates the potential lethal connection between driving and using drugs, as well as the resulting need for a capable criminal defense attorney.
Do I really need to fight a first-time drunk driving charge?
When an Illinois driver faces drunk driving charges, he or she is facing consequences that can have a serious impact on his or her life. The severity of potential penalties depends on the driver's criminal history and certain aggravating factors that may be present in the individual case.
Illinois traffic stop leads to felony charges
Traffic stops often lead to arrests and charges for more serious crimes. A prime example of this phenomenon occurred on November 19 when a Swansea police officer stopped a speeding car and allegedly smelled marijuana. The ensuing events might seem like a bonanza to a criminal defense attorney.