Scott’s Law Ticket at the Glendale Heights Branch Court

Scott’s Law Ticket Defense at the Glendale Heights Branch Court in DuPage County

If you’ve received a Scott’s Law ticket and your case is scheduled at the Glendale Heights Branch Court in DuPage County, you are likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. As a criminal defense attorney who regularly handles Scott’s Law cases at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, I understand what you’re going through. I’ve helped countless clients navigate these serious charges and I can help you too.

This page will explain what Scott’s Law is, why it was enacted, how the Glendale Heights Branch Court operates, and what you can expect if your case is being handled there. It will also explore the potential consequences of a Scott’s Law violation and why it’s so important to have an experienced attorney on your side.

What is Scott’s Law?

Scott’s Law, also known as the “Move Over Law,” is a statute in Illinois that requires drivers to slow down, proceed with caution, and change lanes (if possible) when approaching any stationary emergency vehicle, including police, fire, tow trucks, or maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights.

Scott’s Law is codified under 625 ILCS 5/11-907(c) and was enacted to protect the safety of emergency responders and workers on Illinois roadways. It was named after Lieutenant Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department, who was tragically killed by a passing driver while assisting at a crash scene.

Violating Scott’s Law is not treated like an ordinary traffic ticket. The penalties are severe and have been increased in recent years due to the growing number of accidents and fatalities involving emergency personnel on the side of the road.

Why Was Scott’s Law Enacted and Strengthened?

Scott’s Law was initially enacted in response to a tragedy, but it has become even more significant due to the ongoing danger faced by first responders. The law was strengthened after multiple incidents involving the deaths and injuries of Illinois State Troopers and emergency personnel who were struck by vehicles during routine traffic stops and roadside assistance.

As a result, prosecutors and judges treat these violations very seriously, especially in DuPage County where law enforcement and the courts have taken a strong stance on these cases.

Understanding the Glendale Heights Branch Court in DuPage County

The Glendale Heights Branch Court is a satellite courthouse located at 300 East Fullerton Avenue, Glendale Heights, Illinois. This branch court handles traffic violations, ordinance violations, misdemeanor offenses, and select felony matters that originate from the surrounding municipalities and unincorporated areas of DuPage County.

Many Scott’s Law tickets written in northern and central DuPage County are assigned to the Glendale Heights Branch Court. This includes citations issued by municipal police departments like Carol Stream, Glendale Heights, Bloomingdale, and Lombard, as well as the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois State Police.

Who Prosecutes Scott’s Law Cases at the Glendale Heights Branch Court?

One unique aspect of the Glendale Heights Branch Court is that not all cases are prosecuted by the same office. Some cases are handled by municipal, or “Village,” prosecutors who represent the individual towns where the ticket was issued. Other cases are prosecuted by the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, particularly when the violation is more serious or was issued by a state or county agency.

This distinction can significantly affect how a case is handled. Municipal prosecutors may be more flexible in negotiating plea agreements or reductions in charges. However, when the State’s Attorney’s Office is involved, especially in cases involving injuries, high speeds, or repeat offenders, the consequences can be more severe, and the prosecution more aggressive.

Consequences of a Scott’s Law Violation

The penalties for a Scott’s Law violation in Illinois have become increasingly harsh:

• First Offense: A minimum fine of $250 up to $10,000. Court supervision may be possible but is not guaranteed.
• Subsequent Offenses: Fines start at $750 and can go much higher.
• License Suspension: Your driver’s license can be suspended for 3 months to 2 years, depending on the circumstances.
• Jail Time: In aggravated cases, especially those involving injuries or accidents, jail time is a real possibility.

In addition to the legal penalties, a conviction for a Scott’s Law violation can have long-term consequences on your driving record, insurance premiums, and even your employment.

Real-World Examples from the Glendale Heights Branch Court

As a criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, I’ve represented clients in many Scott’s Law cases with varying outcomes, including:

• A truck driver who was ticketed after failing to move over for a squad car on I-355. After negotiating with the Village prosecutor, the charge was amended to a non-moving violation, and my client avoided license suspension.
• A young driver cited by the Illinois State Police for passing an ambulance on Route 64 without changing lanes. The State’s Attorney initially sought a high fine and a conviction, but we presented mitigating evidence and secured court supervision.
• A client who accidentally struck a tow truck operator’s cone while distracted by GPS directions. We demonstrated it was a non-intentional act, negotiated reduced penalties, and kept the client’s record clean.

Why You Need an Experienced Scott’s Law Attorney for Glendale Heights Court

Scott’s Law cases are not just routine traffic matters. The prosecutors and judges at the Glendale Heights Branch Court treat them seriously, and without proper legal representation, you could face devastating consequences.

Having a skilled attorney who understands how the court works, knows the prosecutors and judges, and has a track record of favorable outcomes is critical. I appear regularly at the Glendale Heights Branch Court and have earned a reputation for providing aggressive, knowledgeable, and effective representation.

When you hire me, I will:

• Thoroughly review your citation and the evidence
• Determine who is prosecuting your case and develop a strategy accordingly
• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
• Represent you in court and fight to protect your driving privileges and record

Call Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with violating Scott’s Law and your case is being heard at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, don’t take any chances. Call me, James Dimeas, today to schedule a free and confidential consultation. I will explain your rights, your options, and how I can help you fight this charge.

Let my experience at the Glendale Heights Branch Court work for you.

Contact Information:

James Dimeas, Criminal Defense Attorney
Phone: 847-807-7405
Email: jdimeas@chicagoareacriminallawyers.com
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