Author Archives: admin

CAN POLICE LOOK INSIDE YOUR CABINETS IN AN EMERGENCY?

            The answer depends on the circumstances. But one recent Illinois Supreme Court case said no.             Police need a warrant to search your home with certain exceptions.  Police do not have to ignore objects in plain view.  So if … Continue reading

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WHAT IS THE CRIME OF OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT IN ILLINOIS?

            Official misconduct is a serious offense in Illinois.  You may be convicted of a Class 3 felony as well as losing your job.              What is Official Misconduct?  If arrested, what can you do? Under Illinois law, it is … Continue reading

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DID THE POLICE SEARCH GO TOO FAR?

            Police stopped the driver of the car in which you were a passenger for a traffic offense. The officers ordered you and the driver out of the car, after which the officer  patted you both down for weapons.  But … Continue reading

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WILL YOUR CRIME KEEP YOU IN JAIL BEFORE TRIAL?

          Even though Illinois abolished cash bail, you may still be held in jail before trial under certain conditions.              One reason a judge may deny pretrial release is if you pose a real and present threat to safety, and … Continue reading

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WHAT IS HARASSMENT UNDER ILLINOIS LAW?

You and your ex split up.  You just wanted to talk to them, but now they’ve filed for an order of protection.  You thought you were making a few innocent phone calls. They claim you’re harassing them. How do you … Continue reading

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DID YOU KNOW THE GUN WAS IN THE CAR?

            You were driving your friends around one night when police pulled you over.  The officer spotted an illegal gun on the floor of the backseat.  Now, you are charged with unlawful use of a weapon.  But the gun wasn’t … Continue reading

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WHAT IS THE CRIME OF REVENGE PORN IN ILLINOIS?

You and your girlfriend have taken pictures of each other that you wouldn’t want your grandmother to see. You shared some of these images with a friend.  Your girlfriend found out, and you broke up.  Now you are charged with … Continue reading

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CAN POLICE TAKE YOUR THINGS FROM YOUR HOSPITAL TRAUMA ROOM?

            Let’s say you got into a fight.  You may have been the aggressor, but you were badly injured and taken to the hospital.  While you were being treated, the police came in and took some of your things without … Continue reading

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WHEN CAN POLICE CHECK YOU FOR WEAPONS?

            The answer is not always.  An officer may pat you down for weapons if the officer is justified in believing that you are armed and dangerous. If the officer is justified in believing you are armed and dangerous, the … Continue reading

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CAN I STAY OUT OF JAIL BEFORE TRIAL?

            Even though Illinois abolished cash bail, you may still be held in jail before trial if  you are a threat to safety or a flight risk. Even so, the state must show by clear and convincing evidence that  less … Continue reading

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