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Date: 10/09/2025

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Crime & Traffic

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A criminal charge as an adult

If you are facing a criminal charge as an adult Any person 18 years old or over , learn more here about the criminal law process and options you may have.

Getting copies of your criminal records
The first step in clearing your criminal record is finding out what is on it. Learn how to collect the documents you need to clear your record.
How-To
Bonds and the end of cash bail in Illinois
This article explains what a bond is, the elimination of bonds in Illinois, and how judges now decide whether to release someone before their trial.
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I missed my criminal court date. What now?
Explains what to do if you weren't able to change your court date and missed going to court.
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Can I get a DUI for driving high?
A blog about the possible penalties for driving while under the influence of drugs.
Text article
Going to court after being arrested
A group of articles and how-tos that explain what to expect if you are charged with a crime.
Guide
Filing a writ of habeas corpus
Steps to file a writ of habeas corpus to challenge why you are in prison.
How-To
Starting a case to appeal a criminal conviction
Steps to appeal a criminal conviction from the necessary forms to writing a brief.
How-To
Petition for executive clemency
Use the form to ask for executive clemency from the Illinois Governor.
Form link
Fighting a criminal charge against you
Steps to explain what will happen after you are arrested and accused of a crime from bond to going to trial.
How-To
Taking back a plea
Provides information on withdrawing your plea.
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Legal help in a criminal case
Options for getting help from a lawyer if you are charged with a crime including a private lawyer or a public defender.
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What to do if someone you know has been arrested by the police
This article explains initial steps to taken when someone you know has been arrested by the police.
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Problem-solving courts for defendants
Problem-solving courts help eligible defendants with drug, mental health, DUI, or veteran issues avoid jail through treatment programs and expungement.
Text article
Defending Criminal Cases: Trials, Sentencing, Appeals, and Post trial Issues
A resource for lawyers on Illinois criminal practice, covering trial strategy, evidence, sentencing, appeals, post-conviction hearings, and habeas corpus.
IICLE
James J. Ahern on DUI caselaw
A lawyer resource on Illinois DUI law, including DUI and summary suspension cases, trial advocacy strategies, and practical forms for litigation.
IICLE
Defending criminal cases: Pretrial issues, guilty pleas, and defenses
A resource for lawyers on Illinois criminal defense, covering arrest, search and seizure, confessions, discovery, pretrial motions, cybercrimes, defenses, plea bargaining, and trial preparation.
IICLE
Expunging your records after drug court
Learn about drug court and how to expunge your record after completing the program.
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ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.

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© 2025 Illinois Legal Aid Online. 
All rights reserved.
 
ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.