Shoplifting, also known as Retail Theft in Illinois, might seem like a minor offense to some, but it carries serious legal consequences. As an experienced criminal defense attorney who has spent decades representing clients across the Chicagoland area, I can tell you that even after you’ve left the store, your…
Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Understanding the Illinois Distracted Driving Cell Phone Law: What You Need to Know to Avoid a Ticket
As a criminal defense attorney with over 32 years of experience handling traffic and criminal offenses throughout Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, Lake County, and the greater Chicagoland area, I’ve seen firsthand how aggressively law enforcement officers enforce the Illinois Distracted Driving Cell Phone Law. This blog post will…
Can You Be Charged With A Burglary If You Were Shoplifting?
As a criminal defense attorney with over three decades of experience representing clients charged with Retail Theft and Burglary throughout Illinois, I’m often asked whether someone can be charged with Burglary for what seems like a simple act of shoplifting. This question arises frequently, especially in Cook County, DuPage County,…
Illinois DUI Laws in 2025: What You Need to Know
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious and aggressively prosecuted offenses in Illinois. If you are facing DUI charges in 2025, you need to understand how Illinois DUI laws work, what penalties you may face, and how an experienced criminal defense attorney like James Dimeas can…
Scott’s Law – Illinois’ Move Over Law: What You Need to Know if You’ve Been Ticketed
If you’ve recently received a Scott’s Law ticket in Illinois, you’re probably worried about what happens next. You may be asking yourself questions like: “How serious is a Scott’s Law violation?” “Will I lose my license?” “Is jail time possible?” “Should I hire a lawyer for a Scott’s Law ticket?”…
The Immigration Consequences of a Criminal Case in Illinois
Understanding the Immigration Consequences of a Criminal Case in Illinois As a criminal defense attorney practicing in Illinois, I have witnessed firsthand how a criminal case can have devastating immigration consequences for non-citizens. This is especially true in today’s world. Anyonne watching the news knows what I am talking about.…
Reckless Driving and DUI Charges: How They Relate and What You Need to Know
If you are facing criminal charges for reckless driving or DUI (Driving Under the Influence), you may be wondering about the differences and similarities between these offenses. Both reckless driving and DUI are serious charges that can have significant legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and even…
Understanding the Illinois Secretary of State Point System: How a Traffic Lawyer Can Help
If you have received a traffic ticket in Illinois, you may be concerned about how it will affect your driving record and whether it will lead to a suspension of your driver’s license. The Illinois Secretary of State operates a point system to track traffic violations, and accumulating too many…
How to Legally Transport a Firearm in Illinois: A Criminal Defense Attorney’s Guide
Transporting a firearm in Illinois can be a complex process, as the state has specific laws and regulations designed to balance public safety and the rights of gun owners. Understanding these requirements is essential to avoid criminal charges and ensure compliance with Illinois firearm transportation laws. As criminal defense attorneys,…
Understanding What Constitutes “Driving” for a DUI in Illinois: A Comprehensive Overview by Criminal Defense Attorney James Dimeas
As an experienced criminal defense attorney in Illinois, I have seen firsthand how the definition of “driving” can significantly impact DUI cases. When facing DUI charges, it is essential to understand what the law considers as “driving” under the state’s statutes. This blog post aims to provide clarity on what…