Your Advocate For Criminal Defense, DUI, Expungements & Traffic Violations

A Legal Process Guide For The Illinois Criminal Justice System

The Illinois legal system can feel like a maze, especially when your driver’s license or freedom is on the line. I am Tom Speedie, and my goal is to demystify this process so you can move forward with confidence. Whether you need DUI defense or help with your major or minor traffic offenses, including trying to protect your Commercial Driver’s License, at my firm in Nashville, I follow a structured approach designed to protect your rights.

Stage 1: Initial Consultation And Information Gathering

My process begins with your first meeting. This is where we discuss the facts of your case and your specific goals. To make the most of this time, the following documents and information are important for your DUI defense:

Your sworn report or any citations received.
The Notice of Statutory Summary Suspension.
Any chemical test results (breath, blood or urine).
Your most recent Illinois driving abstract.

At the initial meeting, I will go over the facts of your case and evaluate these documents. Together, we will come up with a criminal defense strategy for your case.

Stage 2: Investigation And Discovery

Once you retain my firm, I immediately request discovery, which includes police reports, as well as videos from in-car and body cameras. In a DUI defense, I look for procedural errors. For example, a procedural error can include the lack of probable cause for your stop. A procedural error could lead to terminating your driver’s license suspension or even a full dismissal of charges.

Stage 3: Pretrial Negotiations

In all criminal cases, I engage in negotiations with the prosecutor to seek a reduction of charges or a favorable plea agreement. For example, I will point out weaknesses in the State’s case, extenuating circumstances, or other things which could affect a prosecutor’s opinion on a case.

Stage 4: Resolution And Outcome

The final stage is the resolution of your case, whether through a court judgment or a negotiated settlement.

While every case is unique, a standard misdemeanor DUI in Southern Illinois often takes three to six months, or even longer, to resolve.

Consult An Experienced Criminal Defense And Traffic Lawyer For Free

I offer free initial consultations. To schedule your free appointment at Tom Speedie, Attorney at Law, P.C., you can call my office at 800-584-0812 or send me a message through my website. Let’s work together to protect your future.