The first court appearance for a motor vehicle theft charge happens quickly. What will happen? What should you do to prepare? Do you need to bring anything with you? These are common questions. Working with an Aurora, IL motor vehicle theft defense lawyer can help you understand the process and ensure no one violates your rights.
What Charges Am I Facing for a Motor Vehicle Theft Case in Illinois?
Illinois law includes several different charges related to motor vehicle theft. One of the most common charges is possession of a stolen or converted motor vehicle under 625 ILCS 5/4-103.
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Brian J. Mirandola
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What Is the Difference Between Expungement and Record Sealing in Illinois?
Terms like “expungement” and “record sealing” are often used interchangeably, but they mean very different things. Both options can help you clear your name and make it easier to apply for jobs, housing, or education programs. If you are unsure where to begin, our experienced Elgin, IL expungement lawyer can explain the options and whether they apply to your situation.
What Is Criminal Record Expungement in Illinois?
Expungement means removing your criminal record completely. When a record is expunged, it is no longer available to the public or most law enforcement agencies. In other words, it is as if the…
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How Witness Statements Can Affect a Burglary Case in Illinois
Witness statements often play a big role in burglary cases, particularly when a jury decides whether to believe you meant to commit a crime or were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Burglary cases involve questions of intent and entry, so what a witness remembers can have a serious impact on the outcome. If you are being investigated or charged, our experienced Kane County, IL burglary defense lawyer can help. We will work to ensure false or mistaken statements do not decide your future.
What Counts as a Witness Statement in an Illinois Burglary Case?
Under 720 …
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What Is "Wet Reckless" in an Illinois DUI Case?
If you are facing a charge for driving under the influence (DUI), you may hear about the possibility of a “wet reckless” plea. In Illinois, this refers to a reckless driving charge that involves alcohol. Prosecutors and defense attorneys often use the phrase when a DUI is reduced to reckless driving through a plea deal. While this option is not available in every case, it is worth discussing with your attorney. Speak with our experienced Aurora, IL DUI defense lawyer about whether this could be a good option for you.
What Does Wet Reckless Mean in Illinois?
Illinois law does…
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Do Illinois Police Need a Search Warrant To Search My Car for Drugs?
In most cases, Illinois police do not need a search warrant to look through a car if they suspect a drug crime has occurred. The law gives officers some flexibility during traffic stops, but there are limits to what they can do. Knowing your rights can help you protect yourself and your case. An experienced Elgin, IL criminal defense lawyer can review what happened during your stop and explain whether the search was legal.
When Can Police Search Your Car Without a Warrant?
Illinois law has an “automobile exception” to the warrant requirement for a search. It exists because cars…
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What Do I Do if I Am Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence in Illinois?
Very few things are more frustrating than being accused of something you did not do. When that something is as serious as domestic violence, it can have a major negative impact on every part of your life. The legal process can move fast, but you have the right to defend yourself and tell your side of the story in court. An experienced Kane County, IL domestic violence defense lawyer knows the laws that apply to these cases and will help you build a strong defense to fight the false allegations.
How Does Illinois Law Define Domestic Violence?
The Illinois …
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Can I Be Charged if I Didn't Know the Vehicle Was Stolen?
You can face serious charges in Illinois if you are caught with a stolen vehicle. This can happen even if you did not realize the vehicle was stolen. You may have bought a used car from someone, borrowed a friend’s car, or driven a vehicle without carefully checking the title and registration. Even in these situations, prosecutors may still try to build a case against you. Working with an experienced Aurora, IL vehicle theft defense lawyer means you will understand the charges against you and how to fight them.
Understanding Illinois Law on Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle…
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What Traffic Violations Will Impact Your CDL in Illinois?
As a commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder, you are held to higher standards than regular drivers. The rules are strict because the vehicles you operate are larger and more dangerous on the road. When mistakes are made, the consequences for everyone involved can be severe.
In Illinois, just a single traffic violation can threaten your livelihood. An experienced Elgin, IL CDL violations defense lawyer can help you understand how to handle allegations and fight to protect your career.
Common Traffic Violations That Can Impact CDL Holders
Many standard traffic violations that might not seem serious in a personal car can…
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Arrested for DUI After a Fatal Car Crash in Illinois
Fatal accidents caused by driving under the influence (DUI) can result in aggravated DUI charges, which carry harsh penalties and long-lasting consequences. If you have been accused of causing a deadly accident while under the influence, you need an aggressive Kane County, IL aggravated DUI defense lawyer to help you understand the laws that apply to your case and the possible defenses available to you.
What Is an Aggravated DUI in Illinois?
In Illinois, a DUI charge becomes aggravated when certain factors make the offense more severe. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501(d), a DUI that results in the death of…
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Can I Get Arrested in Illinois if a Minor Drinks Alcohol in My Home?
You may be surprised to learn that you can face criminal charges if underage drinking happens in your home. Illinois law makes it illegal to knowingly allow minors to consume alcohol, even if no one is driving. If you are accused of allowing it to happen, you could face fines, criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and lasting consequences. An experienced Aurora, IL underage drinking defense attorney can help you understand your rights and options.
What Is Illinois’s Social Host Law?
Illinois has a strict “social host” law that holds adults accountable if minors drink on their property. Under 235 ILCS 5/6-16(a)(iii)…
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Can I Claim Self-Defense in an Illinois Domestic Battery Case?
Arguments at home can escalate quickly, and sometimes police are called in to calm the situation. Often, officers make an arrest even when the facts are unclear. If you are facing a domestic battery charge, self-defense may still be a valid legal argument. An experienced Elgin, IL domestic violence attorney can explain how Illinois law views self-defense, what must be proven in court, and what types of evidence can strengthen your case.
Understanding Illinois’s Self-Defense Laws
Under 720 ILCS 5/7-1, a person may use reasonable force if they honestly and reasonably believe it is necessary to stop another person’s…
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How Do You Fight an Aggravated Speeding Charge in Illinois?
In Illinois, aggravated speeding is not a routine traffic ticket. It is a criminal charge that can follow you long after the stop. A single case can raise insurance rates, appear on background checks, and complicate certain professional licenses. The good news is that you can challenge the charges against you. Acting quickly matters, and an experienced Kane County, IL aggravated speeding defense attorney can help you build a strong defense.
How Is Aggravated Speeding Different Than Speeding Under Illinois Law?
Most speeding tickets are petty offenses that carry fines only. Aggravated speeding is different. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5,…
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DUI Charges for Prescription Medications in Illinois
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Illinois. If you thought that only alcohol or illegal drugs can lead to a DUI, you were mistaken. Prescription medications can also result in DUI charges if they impair your ability to drive. However, if you have been charged with a DUI, our Aurora, IL DUI defense attorney can help you navigate the complexities of DUI law and build a defense strategy to fight the charge.
What Does Illinois Law Say About Driving Under the Influence?
In Illinois, DUI laws are governed by the Illinois Vehicle Code, specifically under 625 …
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Fighting a Drug Manufacturing Charge in Illinois
Facing a drug manufacturing charge in Illinois is a serious legal matter that can change your life. The penalties for a conviction can include long prison sentences, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Even being accused of helping produce illegal drugs, such as meth, heroin, cocaine, or certain prescription medications, can damage your reputation. That is why it is important to understand how these charges work and what you can do to defend yourself. With the help of an experienced Elgin, IL drug manufacturing defense attorney, you can take steps to protect your future.
How Are Drug Manufacturing…
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Caught Speeding in a Construction Zone With Workers Present in Illinois
Speeding through a construction zone in Illinois is always a serious offense. However, when workers are present, the penalties can be even more severe. These zones are designed to protect road crews from harm, and state law imposes harsher consequences for drivers who ignore posted limits.
If you were ticketed in one of these zones, you could be facing more than just a fine. A conviction could lead to a criminal record, license suspension, or even jail time. To protect your rights, you should understand the laws and your legal options. A Kane County, IL traffic violation defense lawyer can…
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Is It a Crime To Write a Check on a Closed Account in Illinois?
Writing a check on a closed bank account in Illinois can lead to serious legal consequences. When a check is returned unpaid and the account is no longer active, the payee may contact law enforcement. Depending on the circumstances, you could be charged with forgery. The key factor is whether the act was intentional. If you are facing this type of charge, you should speak with a Kane County, IL forgery defense attorney immediately.
What Is the Illinois Worthless Check Statute?
Under 720 ILCS 5/17-3, Illinois law makes it a crime to knowingly issue a check when there…
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