This is the February 2019 Illinois criminal case law audio round-up (the fast case law summary). Episode 598 (Duration 14:12)

The February 2019 Top Illinois Criminal Law Cases (The Monthly Round-Up)

Here’s a quick snapshot of the top cases:

1. People v. Gawlak

Motions for DNA testing in old cases are distinct and separate civil hearings where counsel can come onboard for a limited purpose.

2. Timbs v. Indiana

Eight Amendment ban on excessive fines and forfeitures extends to the states.

3. People v. Baker

Inadmissibility of prior consistent statement trumps hearsay exceptions.

4. People v. Davison

Another example of evidence that was admitted to demonstrate the course of the police investigation.

5. People v. Bradford

Looks like trial counsel did what they could with this ballistics expert.

6. In re K.M.

Police entered onto private property without a warrant to retrieve stolen property, the fallout is widespread.

7. People v. Bowden

Mistake of law case; Theus is under attack.

8. People v. Swenson

How not to ask about a school’s security.

9. People v. Wise

Drugs are found upstairs when defendant was downstairs, is this still armed violence?

10. People v. Lee

Exactly what does the state have to prove in regards to possessing a gun with defaced serial number?

11. People v. Johnson

Defendant is allowed to explain why he missed his sentencing hearing even though the trial court technically has no jurisdiction.

12. People v. Contursi

Court must take into account the future ability to pay when assessing an appropriate felony fine.