If you’re like many people, you’ve heard of using self-defense as a reason for committing a crime – but is it the right choice in your case? If you’ve been charged with a violent crime, it may be. Here’s what you need to know. When Should You Claim Self-Defense? Self-defense is the act of using…

There are many ways Chicago criminal defense attorneys can defend their clients – and one of those ways is through the use of an affirmative defense. So what are affirmative defenses, and how do they work? This guide explains.  What is an Affirmative Defense? An affirmative defense is a defense strategy in which the defendant’s…

In the state of Illinois, it’s possible to go to jail for writing a bad check. The crime of doing so falls under “financial institution fraud,” and it’s punishable by time in jail or in prison. Here’s what you need to know. Related: Differences between misdemeanors and felonies in Illinois Can You Go to Jail…

If you’re like many people, you’ve heard that you’re not supposed to talk to the police without an attorney present – and for the most part, that’s correct. Here’s what you need to know about whether it’s okay to answer police’s questions (and when you absolutely shouldn’t). You have the right to remain silent, and…

If you’re like many people facing criminal charges – especially if you’ve never been involved in the criminal justice system before – you’re not sure about all the terminology, like misdemeanor and felony. This guide explains the differences between the two. Generally, misdemeanors are less-serious crimes than felonies are. Felonies are the most serious crimes,…

If you’re convicted of theft of motor fuel, you could end up serving time behind bars – but how much time depends on how much gas you’re convicted of stealing. You may need to hire a Chicago criminal defense lawyer to help preserve your rights. This guide explains.  Theft of motor fuel occurs when you…

  If you’re like many people who are in the United States on a visa or who have a green card because they’re lawful permanent residents, you may be wondering if you can be deported if you’re convicted of a crime. This guide explains. Will You Be Deported if You’re Convicted of a Crime in…

If you’re like many people, you’ve been in a fight or two over your lifetime – but when you get into a fight and someone calls the police, you could find yourself facing battery charges and jail time. But do you really need a battery lawyer in Chicago after you get into a fight? This…

Disorderly conduct in Illinois is a serious crime, and it’s one that can have serious consequences. The catch is that disorderly conduct is a catch-all term; the legal system in our state uses it to encompass many offenses that “disturb the peace.” Here’s what you need to know. Disorderly Conduct in Illinois Disorderly conduct is…

If you’re like most people, you’ve heard that pulling a fire alarm when there’s no fire is a crime – but can you go to jail over it? This guide explains whether you can go to jail for pulling a fire alarm (and what other seemingly minor crimes could put you behind bars). Can You…

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