How to Obtain a Restricted Driving Permit After an Illinois DUI

When a person is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs in Illinois, there is a mandatory period of driver’s license suspension. The convicted DUI offender is not allowed to drive a car or operate other vehicles for a certain amount of time. This suspension period can apply to commercial drivers, as well.

That being said, Illinois law recognizes that certain people need to drive for work or medical reasons. As a result, it is possible for a convicted drunk driver to receive a restricted driving permit (RDP). These permits allow a DUI offender to drive for approved reasons and under limited conditions.

Who is Eligible for an RDP?

As outlined by the Illinois Secretary of State, the offender must demonstrate undue hardship to be eligible for an RDP. Specifically, the offender must show that they need to drive for:

    Employment reasons; Medical reasons; Child,
[...]

Written by on September 14, 2018

Prostitution and Solicitation Crimes in Illinois

Often deemed the world’s oldest profession, prostitution has deep roots in human history. From the Bible to other ancient texts, there are numerous mentions of prostitutes and companions who provided sex in exchange for money. Under Illinois law, however, prostitution is illegal and punishable by criminal penalties. It is also illegal to engage in solicitation, which is the offer to pay for sexual acts.

Illinois Laws and Penalties for Prostitution

Under 720 ILCS 5/11-14, it is illegal to engage in prostitution in Illinois. Under the law, prostitution is defined as the intentional performance of sexual acts in exchange for money or other valuable consideration. Section 5/11-14 includes sexual penetration and touching or fondling of sexual organs.

Any person who engages in prostitution in Illinois is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. In most cases, the penalties for a Class A misdemeanor include up to 364 days in jail, [...]

Written by on September 7, 2018

Volunteer Firefighter Charged with Child Sex Crime in Illinois

A volunteer firefighter from Zeigler, Illinois, was charged with a child sex crime after transporting a minor for the purpose of sex, reported NBC affiliate WPSD.

The Zeigler City Attorney released a statement concerning this situation last week. Based on that statement, law enforcement arrested the volunteer firefighter on August 19th. The next day, the local fire department terminated the volunteer’s appointment. At this point, the volunteer remains in custody and awaits the next steps in a criminal trial.

Given the backdrop of this unfortunate news story, it seems like a great time review Illinois laws and penalties for the child sex crime of luring.

What is the Definition of Luring in Illinois?

The definition of luring appears in 720 ILCS 5/10-5.1. In general terms, luring refers to any act to solicit, entice, tempt or attract a minor child. In specific terms, an adult over 21 years of [...]

Written by on August 31, 2018

Ashley’s Law Enables Medical Marijuana Use at School

Governor Bruce Rauner recently signed a new bill into law that allows students to receive legally prescribed medical marijuana at school, reported the Chicago Sun-Times. House Bill 4870 (HB4870) makes several adjustments to the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act (the Act).

This bill is also referred to as “Ashley’s Law,” named after a 12-year-old student from Schaumburg. Despite receiving a valid medical marijuana prescription to treat leukemia-related epileptic seizures, Ashley was not allowed to use her medicine at school.

In response, Ashley’s parents sued the state of Illinois and the local school district. After several months in the court system, a federal judge ultimately decided that Ashley had a right to use her legally prescribed medicine at school.

State Representative Lou Lang then introduced HB4870 in February 2018 to amend medical marijuana laws across the state. There was broad, bipartisan support for Ashley’s Law across the [...]

Written by on August 24, 2018