Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog

What to Do If You Find Out There’s a Warrant for Your Arrest

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:05:43 +0000

Discovering that there is a warrant for your arrest can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether you learned about it through a background check, a law enforcement notice, or another source, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds. As a seasoned Illinois criminal defense attorney, I’m here to provide clear, actionable steps to help you navigate this challenging situation while protecting your rights and minimizing potential consequences.

Understanding Arrest Warrants in Illinois

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody. Warrants are typically issued when there is probable cause to believe that you have committed a crime, failed to appear in court, or violated the terms of your probation or parole. In Illinois, arrest warrants can stem from:

What Happens When a Probation Violation is Filed Against Me? An Illinois Criminal Lawyer Explains

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:18:44 +0000

Facing a probation violation in Illinois can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. As a criminal defense attorney, I’ve worked with many individuals navigating these challenging situations. Probation is often granted as an alternative to jail or prison, offering individuals the opportunity to serve their sentence in the community under specific conditions. However, violating the terms of probation can result in serious consequences. In this article, I will explore what happens when a probation violation is filed, the legal process involved, and how an experienced criminal defense attorney can help.

What is a Probation Violation?

When a court grants probation, it comes with a list of conditions that must be followed. These conditions can include:

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Felony Crimes in Illinois

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:33:44 +0000

As a seasoned criminal defense attorney with decades of experience handling felony cases throughout Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, Lake County, and the greater Chicago area, one of the most important questions I regularly address with clients is whether they can still be charged with a crime after many years have passed. This issue hinges on what’s known as the “statute of limitations.”

In this blog post, I’ll explain what the statute of limitations is, how it applies to felony charges in Illinois, the exceptions that can extend or eliminate these time limits, and what happens if you’re charged after the statutory period has expired. I’ll also discuss real-world examples and why having an experienced criminal defense attorney like myself is crucial if you’re facing a felony charge that may be time-barred.

What Is the Statute of Limitations?

Why You Need an Experienced DUI Attorney for Your DUI Case

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:41:00 +0000

Being charged with a DUI in Illinois is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. Not only are you suddenly facing the frightening possibility of losing your freedom, but the potential consequences can affect your driver’s license, career, finances, and reputation. Many people make the mistake of thinking they can handle a DUI case on their own or that hiring just any attorney will do. The truth is simple: you need an experienced DUI attorney who knows how to navigate DUI law, build strong defenses, and protect your future.

As an attorney with decades of experience defending DUI cases throughout the Chicago area, I’ve seen firsthand how a skilled DUI lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Below, I’ll explain why choosing the right attorney matters, what defenses are available in DUI cases, and how a strong legal defense can help you move forward with your life.

The Serious Legal Consequences of a DUI in Illinois

How Long Before You Can Be Arrested for Shoplifting and Charged with Retail Theft in Illinois?

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:00:46 +0000

If you’ve been accused of shoplifting in Illinois, you’re probably wondering how long the authorities have before they can arrest and charge you with Retail Theft. As a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over 32 years of experience defending clients across the Chicago area, I can tell you that shoplifting charges—legally known as Retail Theft—can catch people by surprise, especially when the arrest doesn’t happen right away. In this blog, I’ll explain how long the police have to make an arrest, how the law defines Retail Theft, real-life case examples, and what consequences you could be facing. Whether you made a mistake or were falsely accused, understanding your legal situation is the first step toward protecting your future.

What Is Retail Theft in Illinois?

Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/16-25), Retail Theft is defined as taking possession of, carrying away, or transferring any merchandise from a retail establishment with the intent to deprive the merchant of the full retail value of that merchandise. This includes:

Can Your License Be Suspended Even If You Are Found Not Guilty of a DUI?

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 17:54:10 +0000

As an experienced DUI defense attorney in Illinois, one of the most common and confusing questions I get from clients is this: “Can my license still be suspended even if I’m found not guilty of a DUI?” The answer is yes—under Illinois law, your driver’s license can be suspended even if you beat the DUI charge in court. This surprises many people and is often one of the most frustrating aspects of a DUI arrest.

In this blog, I’ll explain how this happens, what the Statutory Summary Suspension is, and how you can fight to keep your driving privileges. If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Illinois, understanding these issues is absolutely critical, and hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in protecting your license and your future.

What Is a Statutory Summary Suspension?

What’s the Difference Between Conditional Discharge and Court Supervision?

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:29:44 +0000

If you are facing criminal charges in Illinois, understanding your options for resolving your case is crucial. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I often explain to my clients the key differences between Conditional Discharge and Court Supervision, two sentencing alternatives available in Illinois. Both can help you avoid jail time, but they come with different consequences and benefits. Knowing the difference can impact your future, your criminal record, and your ability to move forward after a legal issue.

What is Court Supervision in Illinois?

Court Supervision is a deferred dismissal of charges available for certain offenses, typically misdemeanors and minor traffic violations. If granted, you must comply with certain conditions set by the court, such as completing community service, attending counseling or treatment programs, or paying fines. Once you successfully complete the terms, the case is dismissed without a conviction appearing on your criminal record.

What Are the Chances of Getting Caught Shoplifting After Leaving the Store? A Legal Breakdown by Attorney James Dimeas

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 19:27:14 +0000

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 chances of being caught are often higher than you think.

In this article, we’ll explore the legal realities of shoplifting charges, explain how law enforcement handles these cases, and outline what you should do if you’re facing a Retail Theft charge. Whether you made a mistake or you’re being falsely accused, this guide is for you.

Understanding Retail Theft in Illinois

Understanding the Illinois Distracted Driving Cell Phone Law: What You Need to Know to Avoid a Ticket

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:56:16 +0000

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 break down everything you need to know about this law—from its purpose and enforcement tactics to the penalties for violations and tips for staying compliant. Whether you’ve already received a ticket or are trying to avoid one, this guide is for you.

What Is the Illinois Distracted Driving Law?

Illinois law prohibits the use of handheld electronic communication devices while driving. This includes talking, texting, browsing the web, checking emails, and using apps on phones, tablets, or other handheld devices.

Can You Be Charged With A Burglary If You Were Shoplifting?

James G. Dimeas, Esq. — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 17:09:52 +0000

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, Kane County, and other parts of the Chicago metropolitan area where prosecutors take a hard stance on theft-related crimes. The answer is yes, under certain circumstances, a person can be charged with Burglary for shoplifting, and the implications of such a charge are far more serious than most people realize.

In this blog post, I’ll explain the key differences between Retail Theft and Burglary in Illinois, when shoplifting can escalate to a Burglary charge, and what kind of penalties you could be facing. I’ll also share examples from real cases to illustrate how prosecutors handle these charges and why it is critical to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side.

Understanding Retail Theft in Illinois