Posted on January 31, 2017 in Criminal Law

The sight of flashing emergency lights in your rearview mirror is never pleasant. Depending on your circumstances, you may feel annoyed that your travel is interrupted – or you may be terrified of what will happen next, especially if you just left a bar or party where alcohol was served. You may even be confused as to why you are being pulled over, especially if you believe you were driving in a safe and prudent manner. A knowledgeable Joliet defense attorney may need to examine the facts of your case to determine if the officer’s stop of your vehicle was lawful.

Reasonable Suspicion is Needed to Stop a Vehicle in Illinois

Under Illinois law, a law enforcement officer needs reasonable suspicion that you have committed or are in the process of committing a crime before he or she can stop your car and investigate. Reasonable suspicion requires something more than a mere “hunch” or “gut feeling” that you are connected to criminal activity. This is satisfied if at the time law enforcement stops you the law enforcement officer:

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 Posted on January 13, 2017 in Criminal Law

If you have been charged with a crime, a criminal defense attorney can challenge evidence and effectively negotiate with prosecutors. However, if negotiating is not in your best interests, the lawyer has the option to present the case to a judge or jury to prove your innocence. It is important to take precautionary measures with dealing with a criminal charge. You could have a public defender handle your case, but if the charges are serious enough, hiring an experienced attorney can be better for your future.

1. A criminal defense lawyer can provide an in-depth analysis of your case.

You and your criminal attorney can sit down and speak privately about your case. At that time, you will be able to discuss and review the prosecutor’s evidence. Your attorney will then investigate the allegations and give you an honest and confidential review of your situation.

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