Legal Question in Traffic Law in Illinois

My son was driving on a suspended license, and when he saw the police make a turn and follow him from a distance but not putting their lights on--He made a few quick turns and parked the car and walked away--when the police found the car which was registered to me--they came to my
house inquiring about who was driving the car--I told them it was my son but I did not tell them
where he lived---The police have towed my car and they won't release it until I force him to come in.
They've also been harassing me and ticketing me for so call violations on my property because of
this---My son is 32 years old and he has never been in trouble in his life--This was a foolish thing
thing that he did--- but he won't go in because he's afraid of having to spend time jail.
My question is-- can the police force me to tell them where he lives?
And if I can convince my son to turn himself in--what type of charges would he be facing?

Asked on 7/08/10, 8:35 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Charles Dobra Charles Wm. Dobra, Ltd.

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"DWLS" is a serious offense. I would suggest that it would be helpful if he did turn himself in to be arrested for this charge. Typically, the bond is not all that bad...bring cash with you to the police station. I would bet that the police would keep him there for a few hours while they do the paper work. Might be better to get there at the beginning of a shift. I would bet that you would have to go to court in the 4th, 5th, or 6th Municipal District, depending on where the offense occurred. You definitely need the assistance of a lawyer. Good Luck!

Answered on 7/08/10, 11:51 am

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Andrew Pavlinski Pavlinski & Elkins

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You say that your son has never been in trouble before. Yet, his license was suspended. What were the circumstances of the suspension?

He should seek to resolve this matter as soon as possible as it will not simply go away. There are some details with regard to the ticketing of your property as a result of his actions which are unclear and you should discuss with an attorney.

A first conviction for driving with a suspended license is a Class A misdemeanor with possible imprisonment of up to 1 year and a $2,500 fine. Subsequent convictions range from a Class 4 felony with possible 1-3 years imprisonment to a Class 2 felony with possible imprisonment of 3-7 years and a $25,000 fine. A Class 2 felon may not apply for a driver�s license or any type of permit for five years from the date of revocation or five years from the date of their release from prison, whichever is longer. For a third or subsequent violation, the driver will receive a lifetime revocation of his/her driving privileges.

If he acts quickly and seeks the advice of an attorney, he may be able to avoid jail time.

Feel free to contact me with any questions or to discuss his case further at [email protected] or via the link below.

Answered on 7/08/10, 11:55 am

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