The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects citizens’ rights to keep and bear arms. Although gun rights can be quite controversial, many people believe that it is important to defend themselves in the event they are ever attacked. Certain states have their own laws pertaining to concealed or open carry of handguns. Currently, open carry is not legal in the state of Illinois. Concealed carry refers to carrying a firearm or other weapon in public in a concealed or hidden manner. 

Illinois gun owners must first obtain a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card before they can qualify for a concealed carry license (CCL). Once they have this permit, they must obey a strict set of regulations in order to keep their firearm. Not only can a violation lead to losing their license, but spending on the circumstances, an offender can face criminal charges, with penalties that include jail time and costly fines. 

Illinois Gun Laws

Under Illinois law, a valid FOID card is necessary to purchase and possess a gun in the state. Those individuals who own a FOID but who do not have a CCL are still permitted to transport guns as long as they are unloaded and enclosed in a case, firearm carrying box, shipping box, or another type of container. The Illinois State Police issues FOID cards, which are valid for 10 years. 

Nobody really wants to undergo surgery, but in most cases, it is the only viable solution to fix a problem or injury from which a person is suffering. In these situations, the patient puts his or her trust in the doctors and medical staff. Medical professionals have a legal duty of care to their patients, and if they breach that duty, it may be considered negligence or malpractice. If you or your loved one was hurt during a medical procedure of any kind, an experienced personal injury attorney can help determine liability and seek compensation for your damages. Depending on the circumstances, a physician may not be the only defendant in a lawsuit—the hospital administration, attending residents, and medical students can also be found liable.  

Types of Medical Mistakes

Although most people do not like to think they happen, surgical errors do occur. Various factors can cause them, including not verifying patient information, miscommunication between doctors, and lack of protocol. Regardless of the reasons for the errors, they can cause serious injury and even irreparable harm to a patient. A few of the most common mistakes that can take place during surgery include but are not limited to the following:

• Wrong body part: Even though it may be difficult to comprehend, the incorrect body part is sometimes operated on. A mix-up in a patient’s records can lead medical personnel to indicate the wrong leg or arm for surgery. 

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In today’s modern world, people are busy, often juggling taking care of a family while working or going to school. It is not uncommon for parents to take their kids on a quick errand. In some cases, they may even leave them in the car while they run into the bank or store if they can keep an eye on them through the window. However, in some cases, this can result in criminal charges for the parent, depending on the ages of the children who are left unattended. Illinois law specifies penalties for adults who endanger the life of a minor child (under 18), and in some cases, these situations may result in domestic violence or abuse charges. Child endangerment is defined as placing a minor in a situation where he or she could be hurt or killed. 

Child Endangerment 

According to Illinois law, parents who leave their children unattended and out of their view may be charged with child endangerment, a Class A misdemeanor. This crime carries a penalty of up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine if convicted. The law applies to children age 6 and under who are left inside a car for 10 minutes or more without anyone who is at least age 14 with them or within eyesight. These charges may apply regardless of whether the vehicle is running or not. 

If the person who is charged is the child’s parent, he or she may receive probation depending on the details of the case. However, a second or subsequent conviction for child endangerment is charged as a Class 3 felony in Illinois. 

Theft can encompass many different actions, not just taking something that is not yours. Identity theft is the deliberate use of another person’s identity, typically to gain a financial advantage or obtain credit and other benefits. Often considered a “white-collar crime,” identity theft has become prevalent in recent decades due to the emergence of the Internet and online computing for banking, shopping, and other activities. Stealing someone’s identity can have serious consequences in Illinois, including prison and hefty fines depending on the circumstances of the case. If you are facing charges for any theft crime, it is imperative that you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. 

What Actions Constitute Identity Theft?

Identity theft often precedes financial crimes such as credit card fraud, and in these scenarios, alleged offenders can also face charges for the financial crime. Identity theft occurs when an individual takes someone else’s personal identification, without permission, or any other information that can be used to access a person’s medical documents or financial resources, such as the following:

• Name

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Having a baby can be one of the most joyful moments of someone’s life. However, in certain cases, the mother and baby can experience complications. Injuries suffered during childbirth can be serious to life-threatening. Problems during labor and delivery can occur for various reasons, even after a normal pregnancy. Doctors and nurses are responsible for ensuring a certain level of care, but sometimes medical mistakes or errors are made. When birth injuries occur as a result, this may be considered negligence. If you or your child was harmed during childbirth, it is important to understand what caused the injuries. You may be entitled to compensation, and an experienced medical malpractice attorney can help you determine liability and hold those responsible for your damages accountable. 

Complications During Childbirth

The birth of a child should be a momentous occasion. Unfortunately, complications can and do occur. Injuries that are commonly referred to as “birth injuries” can take place during pregnancy, labor and delivery, or shortly after birth. In certain situations, they are preventable and caused by improper procedures or negligent medical care. 

A few of the most common birth injuries include but are not limited to: