Question 1

What happens during a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your free consultation is a confidential, no-obligation conversation with an attorney. We'll listen to the details of your situation, explain your legal rights and options, and outline potential next steps. You will not be charged anything, and anything you share with us is protected by attorney-client privilege.

Question 2

How should I prepare for my consultation?

Accepted Answer

Bring any documents related to your case, such as police reports, charging documents, court paperwork, or correspondence. Write down a timeline of events and a list of questions you have. The more information you can provide, the more accurate our initial assessment will be.

Question 3

What does a criminal defense case typically involve?

Accepted Answer

A criminal defense case begins with a thorough review of the charges and the evidence against you. We investigate the facts, examine whether your rights were violated, file pretrial motions when appropriate, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for you at every hearing. Most cases resolve through negotiation or a plea agreement, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial.

Question 4

How long does a criminal defense case take?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary widely depending on the complexity of the charges and the court's schedule. Misdemeanor matters may resolve in a few months, while felony cases can take six months to over a year. We'll give you a realistic expectation after your consultation and keep you informed at every stage.

Question 5

Will I go to jail?

Accepted Answer

Every case is unique, and no attorney can guarantee an outcome. What we can guarantee is that we will fight aggressively to protect your freedom, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible resolution. Factors like the nature of the charge, your record, and the circumstances all play a role, which we'll discuss honestly during your consultation.

Question 6

What are your fees for criminal defense?

Accepted Answer

For criminal defense, we typically charge a flat fee and offer flexible payment plans so cost is never a barrier to quality defense. We'll clearly explain all fees and payment options during your free consultation, and you'll know the cost before you commit.

Question 7

What should I expect during a DUI consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your DUI consultation is a confidential, no-obligation conversation focused entirely on the traffic stop, the arrest, and the evidence against you. We'll review the police report, the reason you were pulled over, whether field sobriety or breath tests were administered properly, and what your license and driving privileges are at stake. You'll leave the conversation understanding the charges, the potential penalties, and the realistic options for fighting or resolving the case.

Question 8

Will I lose my driver's license?

Accepted Answer

A DUI arrest triggers a separate license suspension proceeding through the Illinois Secretary of State — and you have only 46 days to request a hearing to challenge it. We'll explain exactly how this process works, whether you qualify for a monitoring device driving permit, and how we can fight to keep you on the road. Acting quickly after an arrest is critical, which is why we offer same-day consultations for DUI matters.

Question 9

Can a DUI really be fought and won?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many DUI cases have defenses that a trained attorney can identify — an unlawful traffic stop, an improperly administered breath or blood test, faulty equipment, or violations of your constitutional rights. We examine every detail of the stop and the testing procedures, and we never assume the state's case is airtight. Even when a dismissal isn't possible, we often negotiate reduced charges, court supervision, or alternative sentencing that protects your record and your license.

Question 10

What are the potential penalties for a DUI in Illinois?

Accepted Answer

Penalties depend on whether it's a first or repeat offense, your blood alcohol content, and whether anyone was injured. A first-time DUI can carry license suspension, fines, mandatory classes, and possible jail time, while repeat offenses carry far more severe consequences. We'll give you an honest, plain-language breakdown of what you're facing and the strategies available to minimize the impact on your life.

Question 11

Should I just plead guilty and get it over with?

Accepted Answer

Never plead guilty to a DUI without speaking to an attorney first. A conviction can affect your license, your insurance rates, your job, and even your ability to travel — often for years. Many clients assume they have no options, only to learn during a free consultation that their case has real weaknesses. The consultation costs nothing, and it may be the most important call you make.

Question 12

What should I expect during a personal injury consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your personal injury consultation is a relaxed, confidential conversation — not a pressured sales meeting. The attorney will ask about how your injury happened, the medical treatment you've received so far, and how the injury has affected your daily life, work, and family. We'll explain how Illinois personal injury claims work, who may be responsible, and what kinds of compensation may be available — including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Most importantly, we'll give you an honest, straightforward assessment of your situation and answer every question you have.

Question 13

What should I bring to a personal injury consultation?

Accepted Answer

If you have them, bring any photos of the accident scene or your injuries, the police or incident report, names and contact information of anyone involved or who witnessed what happened, medical records and bills, correspondence from insurance companies, and pay stubs or documentation of missed work. Don't worry if you don't have everything yet — we can help you gather the rest as part of your case.

Question 14

How do I know if I even have a personal injury case?

Accepted Answer

That's exactly what the free consultation is for. In general, you may have a case if you were harmed because someone else acted carelessly or failed to act responsibly — such as in a car crash, slip and fall, workplace accident, or by a defective product. During the consultation we'll review the facts and give you an honest opinion about whether you have a viable claim and whether it makes sense to move forward, with no pressure to hire us.

Question 15

Do I have to pay anything to hire you for a personal injury case?

Accepted Answer

No. For personal injury and wrongful death matters, we work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs, and our fee is a percentage of the recovery we secure for you. We'll explain everything clearly before you agree to anything.

Question 16

What if I can't make it to your office?

Accepted Answer

We understand that transportation, work, or health may make an in-person visit difficult — especially if you're injured. We offer phone and virtual consultations and, in certain circumstances, can arrange to meet you at another location, including your home or the hospital. We offer free Zoom consultations so you can speak with an attorney from anywhere. Just let us know what works best for you when you schedule.

Question 17

Who will I actually speak with during the consultation?

Accepted Answer

You'll speak directly with an attorney — not a salesperson or intake screener. We believe you deserve honest answers from the lawyer who would handle your case. We'll take the time to understand what you're going through, explain your rights in plain language, and outline clear next steps so you leave the conversation knowing where you stand.

Question 18

What should I expect during a workers' compensation consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your workers' compensation consultation is a free, confidential conversation about how your injury happened, the medical care you've received, and how the injury has affected your ability to work. We'll explain how the Illinois workers' compensation system works, what benefits you're entitled to, and how to protect yourself if your employer or their insurance company is disputing or delaying your claim. You'll get a straightforward assessment with no pressure to hire us.

Question 19

What should I bring to a workers' compensation consultation?

Accepted Answer

If you have them, bring the incident report from your employer, any medical records and bills related to the injury, correspondence from the workers' compensation insurance company, pay stubs showing your wages, and a list of the doctors or clinics you've seen. Don't worry if you don't have everything — we can help you gather and organize the records as part of your case.

Question 20

What benefits am I entitled to under Illinois workers' compensation?

Accepted Answer

Injured Illinois workers are generally entitled to full coverage of reasonable and necessary medical treatment, temporary disability payments while unable to work, compensation for any permanent injury or disability, and in some cases vocational rehabilitation. The exact benefits depend on the nature and severity of your injury, which we'll review in detail during your consultation.

Question 21

What if my claim was denied?

Accepted Answer

A denial is not the end of the road. Employers and their insurers frequently deny legitimate claims, hoping injured workers will give up. We handle denied claims every day — we'll review the denial, gather the medical and factual evidence needed to challenge it, and represent you through the arbitration process if necessary. The sooner we review a denial, the stronger your case can be.

Question 22

Do I have to pay anything up front for a workers' compensation case?

Accepted Answer

No. Workers' compensation cases are handled on a contingency basis — you pay nothing unless we secure benefits for you. Our fee is a percentage of what we recover, and Illinois law sets a standard contingency fee of 20% for these cases. We'll explain everything clearly so there are no surprises.

Question 23

Can I be fired for filing a workers' compensation claim?

Accepted Answer

It is illegal in Illinois for an employer to fire or retaliate against you for filing a legitimate workers' compensation claim. If you believe you're being treated differently or threatened because you reported an injury, tell us during the consultation — we'll explain your rights and the protections available to you.

Fighting for Justice When It Matters Most

Practice Areas

Wrongful Death

Personal Injury

Workers' Compensation

Orders of Protection / Restraining Orders

Criminal Defense

Counties We Serve

Peoria County

Tazewell County

McLean County

Woodford County

Fulton County

Knox County

Champaign County

Whiteside County

Logan County

Sangamon County

Livingston County

Bureau County

Injured? We'll Come to You

We Come to You

Free Zoom Consultations

No Cost, No Obligation

Experienced Advocates Who Genuinely Care

Client-Centered Approach

Proven Track Record

Responsive & Available

Our Attorneys

Patrick E. Halliday

Payment Options

Contingency Fees

Payment Plans

What Our Clients Say

What to Expect