Serving Cook County & DuPage County
Chicago Criminal Defense & Traffic Violations Lawyer Serving Cook & DuPage Counties
Legal Protection When You’re Facing Criminal Charges or Traffic Violations
Chicago criminal defense attorney Peter Wachowski represents individuals throughout Cook and DuPage Counties facing criminal charges and traffic violations. His role is to evaluate the facts of the case, protect clients’ legal rights, and pursue the best possible outcome through strategic defense, negotiation, or court representation.
Speak directly with a Chicago criminal defense lawyer today
- 30+ Years Experience
- $36M+ Recovered
What happens after a DUI arrest in Illinois?
Driving under the influence is a serious criminal offense in Cook County, Illinois. A DUI arrest can result in immediate administrative penalties through the Secretary of State, as well as criminal charges in court. Potential consequences may include:
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Fines and court costs
- Mandatory alcohol education programs
- Installation of ignition interlock devices
- Possible jail time for certain offenses
DUI cases often involve complex legal and scientific issues such as breathalyzer testing, field sobriety tests, and traffic stop procedures. Peter Wachowski reviews the circumstances of the arrest, examines whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, and challenges evidence when appropriate.
Clearing your criminal record in Illinois
A past arrest or conviction can create barriers long after a case is resolved. Criminal records are often accessible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards, which can make it difficult to move forward. Illinois law allows certain arrests and criminal cases to be expunged or sealed, meaning the record may be removed from public view or legally restricted. Expungement may help individuals:
- Improve employment opportunities
- Pass background checks
- Secure housing or professional licensing
- Move forward without the burden of a past record
Peter Wachowski helps clients determine whether they qualify for expungement or record sealing and guides them through the legal process to restore their future opportunities.
Should you fight a traffic ticket?
Many drivers simply pay a traffic ticket to resolve the issue quickly, but doing so is often considered an admission of guilt. Accumulating multiple tickets can lead to higher insurance premiums, license points, and potential license suspension. Common traffic ticket issues include:
- Failure to yield
- Improper turns
- Following too closely
- Cell phone violations
- Equipment violations
An experienced attorney can review the circumstances of the citation and determine whether legal defenses may reduce or dismiss the charge.
How serious is a speeding ticket in Cook or DuPage County, Illinois?
Speeding tickets are among the most common traffic offenses, but they can still carry significant consequences depending on the speed involved and the driver’s record. Penalties may include:
- Fines and court costs
- Points against a driver’s license
- Increased insurance premiums
- License suspension in certain cases
In some situations, excessive speeding may even be charged as a criminal offense rather than a simple traffic violation.
Peter Wachowski helps drivers evaluate their options and defend against citations that could negatively affect their driving record and finances.
What are civil traffic violations?
Civil traffic violations generally involve non-criminal offenses related to the operation of a vehicle. Although they may not result in jail time, they can still lead to fines, license points, or insurance increases. Examples include:
- Failure to stop at a red light or stop sign
- Improper lane usage
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Minor speeding violations
- Equipment violations
While these offenses may appear minor, repeated violations can accumulate and place a driver’s license at risk. Legal guidance can help drivers understand the consequences and determine the best course of action.
Why Peter Wachowski? Personal Advocacy for Criminal Defense Cases
Strong representation begins with a thorough and strategic case review. A trusted attorney will carefully evaluate the facts of the case, identify potential defenses, and explain the legal options available.
The Total Guard Approach®
Peter created the Total Guard Approach® specifically to protect injured people during this vulnerable period—fighting for compensation while safeguarding credit, finances, and long-term recovery.
Direct Attorney Access
Unlike elite downtown firms where you are handed off to junior associates, you speak directly with your Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer, Peter Wachowski, who returns calls within 24 hours.
Community Connection
As a bilingual Polish-English attorney with deep roots in the suburbs, Peter provides culturally understanding representation that bridges the gap between the law and your livelihood.
For Chicagoans seeking a roadway accident lawyer in Park Ridge, Arlington Heights, Mt Prospect, Schaumburg, Naperville, or the surrounding Chicago suburbs, Peter offers the sophisticated advocacy of a downtown firm with the personal protection of a local partner.
Protection Beyond the Settlement
The Total Guard Approach®
Protection beyond the settlement. Peter’s Total Guard Approach® safeguards victims by:
1. Case Review
We complete a detailed questionnaire and assess a client's legal opportunities, case benefits for financial recovery, explain actions to stay financially solvent and address fears with the case and court (including language barriers).
2. Case Initiation
Our case docketing process is systemized allowing workflow efficiency, tracking and access to information at any time during and even after the case is closed.
3. Credit Protection
We have a proven process to diligently and expediently protect our clients good credit rating from collection agencies.
4. Lien Reduction
Our lien reduction procedure is designed to provide the client with the chance to pursue reduction and/or elimination of liens and at the same time put more money in the client's pocket.
5. Money Maximizer
We work relentlessly and do the extra work most lawyers don't to legally maximize the amount of financial recovery available for a client.
6. Settlement Advantage
We guarantee all fees are paid and cases are fully closed before ending our work.
Communities We Serve
Peter Wachowski serves Chicago and nearby suburbs and communities throughout cook & DuPage Counties.
- Park Ridge
- Arlington Heights
- Mt Prospect
- Schaumburg
- Naperville
Local, accessible, and personal — schedule your consultation today.
About Peter Wachowski
Peter Wachowski is a trusted local attorney with deep roots in the Polish-American community. Fluent in Polish (Mówimy po polsku), Peter serves hardworking families who value trust, clarity, and personal advocacy—ensuring every client is heard and respected.
He has more than 30 years of experience and over $36 million recovered for injured clients. Known for integrity, clarity, and client advocacy, he provides personal representation and not case-factory processing.