According to the Equal Justice Initiative, the driving force behind criminal justice reform in the United States is to create a fairer system. Statistics show that incarcerated individuals usually are people of color and from lower income brackets. In recent years,...
criminal defense
Navigating your rights during Illinois police interrogations
Every individual has rights during interactions with law enforcement, regardless of the circumstances. Intense situations like crime investigations do not diminish your rights. So, can Illinois police force you to confess to a crime you did not commit? Understanding...
What to do if the police serve you with a search warrant?
If Illinois law enforcement officials have permission to search your home, vehicle or business, getting a search warrant can be an intimidating experience. Even though it might feel invasive, remember that they are following procedures set forth by the legal system....
4 Examples Of Cybercrime
Cybercrimes, conducted through computer networks or devices, pose significant threats to individuals, organizations and even nations. Reports of crimes are on the increase. For example, cybercriminals hack 600,000 Facebook accounts every day, according to the...
Understanding The Federal Grand Jury Process
The grand jury plays a fundamental role in the United States federal legal system, yet the process remains a mystery to many. It serves as a gatekeeper between the government and the accused, deciding whether there is enough evidence to charge an individual with a...
Can You Go To Jail For Mortgage Fraud?
Mortgage fraud is a serious crime that involves intentionally providing false or misleading information during the mortgage application process. If caught and convicted of mortgage fraud, individuals can face severe legal consequences. Learn more about mortgage fraud...
What Is Happening With The Pretrial Fairness Act?
In 2021 the state of Illinois passed the Pretrial Fairness Act. This legislation was groundbreaking in that it focused on the rights of the accused. While the U.S. Constitution ensures all individuals accessed of crimes are innocent until the state proves them guilty,...
What Should You Do When Invoking Your Right To Remain Silent?
Few things in life are scarier than facing criminal prosecution. After all, depending on the seriousness of the crime prosecutors believe you committed, you might encounter steep fines or imprisonment. You also might have to deal with having a criminal record for the...
Supreme Court Hears Safe-t Act Arguments
Criminal justice reform is a complicated process involving small victories and occasional backsteps. As much as some wish for sweeping reform that sticks, the reality is more nuanced. Recently, Illinois passed the SAFE-T Act. One of the laws included in part of the...
Are You Aware Of What An Unlawful Search And Seizure Is?
As a suspect in a criminal investigation, the United States Constitution provides you with important protection. Any violation of these rights could help with your defense against the charges of your case. You have protection against unlawful searches and seizures....