Do You Have a Criminal Record?

The typical response to the foregoing question is usually a resounding, “no.” However, more often than not, it is a mistaken response. Sadly, statistics show that nearly thirty percent, or 1 out of every 3 Americans has a criminal record, and many are unaware of its existence! Usually, the shock and dismay that individuals experience upon finding that they have a criminal record can be attributed to their lack of understanding just how a criminal record is formed in the first place.

Most people correctly assume that a criminal record is acquired through a formal arrest, usually leading to the accused being led away in handcuffs. While this method may be the most common way to procure a criminal record, it certainly is not the only way. In fact, there are less apparent ways such as, having a criminal Complaint unknowingly filed against you and later dismissed or being hauled into a police station for questioning and while there being fingerprinted, but subsequently released without charging. Yes, contrary to popular belief, a criminal record is created, even if you are released without being charged or found not guilty in a court of law!

Further, a criminal record, regardless of the age of the crime or the level of the offense, does not fade over any period of time. Requisite steps must be taken to clear the record or else the remnants of the dismissals and/or convictions will remain indefinitely. They will continue to follow you and create collateral consequences such as the inability to secure employment, housing, public benefits, parental rights, FOID cards, and much more.

If you are interested in clearing your record, we can help you navigate the new 2017 Expungement and Sealing laws and get a well-deserved, second chance at your life. Don’t be misinformed...Call the experts at the Reese Law Center, LLC to set up your free consultation.

Also, be sure to ask how we can eliminate filing fees and other forms of relief we offer to individuals whose records cannot be totally cleared!

Do I Have to Financially Support My Ex?

A court will usually award the lower-earning spouse just enough support to meet basic needs while the divorce is proceeding. If you can’t cover your own bills, a request for temporary support will need to be filed on your behalf, because it is not an automatic award. Specifically, an attorney will file a "petition," which explains why you’re entitled to temporary support. Be prepared to produce evidence to support your request. The evidence may include your bank records pay check stubs, credit card statements, rental receipts and medical bills. The point is to show your current income and expenses.

Call 708-914-4570 to schedule your free consultation with an attorney at The Reese Law Center, LLC. to get your process executed.

Can You Blame It on the Alcohol?

As the holidays approach, it is extremely important to be reminded of the law amongst all of the festivities. Although it is common to suffer from poor judgment while under the influence, the court does not recognize “voluntary intoxication” as a suitable legal defense when accused of a crime. Voluntary intoxication describes the action of willingly consuming drugs and/or alcohol.

No matter how inebriated you are, you will not escape criminal liability by blaming it on the alcohol, and dependent upon the circumstances, that intoxication may further damage your case.

If you are facing legal trouble for an altercation you committed while under the influence, contact The Reese Law Center, LLC. (708)-914-4570 to schedule your free consultation. We have committed attorneys who will protect your rights and fight for your case.

Wait….Are Cops Allowed to Lie to You?

Yes. Let’s go over #5 ways the police are allowed to lie to you.

#1) They Can Say They Have Physical Evidence Against You

Cops often claim to have a suspect’s DNA, fingerprints, etc.  during an interrogation in order to induce an admittance of guilt.

#2) They Can Say Your Friend Lied on You

During interrogation, cops often tell suspects, accused of working together, that the other has confessed in efforts to induce an admittance of guilt.

#3) They Can Say They’ll Talk to the DA for You

During interrogation, cops may make promises they can’t keep such as leniency and plea deals. Only your lawyer can negotiate with the DA on your behalf.

#4) They Can Say “This Is Off the Record” When It Isn’t

Cops are not required to disclose the presence of a recording device in the interrogation room. When you speak with the police, nothing is “off the record”.

#5) They Can Say They Have an Eyewitness

Cops often claim they have evidence they do not have in order to induce an admittance of guilt.

There you have it! The cops are allowed to lie to you and they WILL lie to you! If you ever find yourself accused of a crime, say nothing to the police and ask for your lawyer at The Reese Law Center, LLC. (708)-914-4570. We have the legal team that will protect your rights and fight for your case.

“She’s just going to spend my money on herself”—How much child support is enough?

The price maybe high, but you want your child to have what he/she needs—food, clothes, transportation, housing, medical care and a good education.

It is not unusual for a single child to cost around $1.1 million, from birth through the undergrad college years; therefore, the financial support from both parents is very important.

Illinois child support laws ensure that the non-custodial parent is paying money towards the child’s food, clothes, transportation, housing, any activities, medical care, and private schooling, until the child is 18.  The amount is based on the income of both parents, deductions such as alimony or child support to another party, and the child’s standard of living.

Illinois’s child support guidelines are as follows:

·      One child: payment should be 20% of noncustodial parent’s net income

·      Two children: payment should be 28% of noncustodial parent’s net income

·      Three children: payment should be 30% of noncustodial parent’s net income

·      Four children: payment should be 40% of noncustodial parent’s net income

·      Five children: payment should be 45% of noncustodial parent’s net income

·      Six or more children: payment should be 50% of noncustodial parent’s net income

So what can you do if you’re overpaying?

In order to protect your rights as a noncustodial parent, you must call on the expertise of the attorneys at The Reese Law Center, LLC. Our attorneys know what is in your best interest and how to fight for a fair amount that will ensure your child is taken care of without breaking your bank account. So, go ahead, and give us a call (708)914-4570.