OVER 75 YEARS OF COMBINED PRACTICE

A man in handcuffs talks to a criminal defense lawyer, who is taking notes

When One Charge Can Change Everything, Experience Matters

Facing a criminal charge is overwhelming. Whether it’s a DUI, felony, misdemeanor, or a traffic violation, the stakes feel high. In fact, your reputation, career, financial stability, and even your freedom may be at risk. The uncertainty alone can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure what will happen next or who to trust. When the legal system feels intimidating, the right criminal defense attorney provides clarity, protection, and a path forward.

At Essig Law Office, our father-and-son legal team brings more than 75 years of combined experience to every case. Located on Washington’s historic square, we proudly serve Washington, Peoria, Morton, Eureka, Metamora, and communities across Central Illinois, offering trusted guidance rooted in decades of local courtroom experience.

Criminal defense is about more than legal strategy. It’s about protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future, all while restoring peace of mind during one of life’s most difficult moments.

We are here to help you understand your options, stand with you in court, and guide you toward the best possible outcome.

Focused Criminal Defense for Life’s Most Serious
Legal Challenges

We offer experienced, ethical representation across a full range of criminal law matters. Every case receives personal attention and a tailored strategy.

Our criminal defense services include:

Criminal Defense
DUI Defense

Representation for first-time and repeat offenses, license suspension issues, and complex DUI cases.

Criminal Defense
Felonies & Misdemeanors

Defense for charges ranging from property crimes to serious violent offenses.

Criminal Defense
Traffic Violations

Help protecting your driving record, avoiding costly penalties, and maintaining driving privileges.

Criminal Defense
Juvenile Law

Compassionate, discreet representation for minors facing criminal accusations.

The Situations That Bring Clients to Our Office

Criminal charges can involve complex legal, financial, and personal consequences. We routinely help clients navigate challenges such as:

Criminal Defense
License Suspension After a DUI

Understanding your rights, deadlines, and options to regain driving privileges.

Criminal Defense
Protecting Your Record

Avoiding convictions, reducing charges, or pursuing expungement when possible.

Criminal Defense
Courtroom Representation

Negotiating with prosecutors and presenting a strong, strategic defense.

Criminal Defense
Juvenile Charges Affecting School or Future Opportunities

Ensuring young clients are treated fairly and protected.

Criminal Defense
Traffic Violations Causing Insurance or Employment Hardship

Minimizing or eliminating the impact of citations.

These situations can feel intimidating. You don’t have to navigate them alone.

From First Call to Final Resolution: Our Process

Every client deserves clarity and confidence during the legal process. Here’s how we approach your case:

  1. Honest, Confidential Consultation Meet directly with an attorney to understand your rights, options, and next steps.
  2. Thorough Case Review Review evidence, police reports, witness statements, and procedural details.
  3. Strategic Defense Planning Develop a tailored strategy built on decades of Central Illinois courtroom experience.
  4. Clear, Ongoing Communication Stay informed at every stage of your case.
  5. Court Representation & Negotiation Advocate aggressively in negotiations, hearings, or trial when necessary.
  6. Ongoing Support Beyond Your Case Assistance with expungement, documentation, or related needs.

We believe in transparency, preparation, and genuine care for each person we represent.

People shake hands after winning a successful criminal defense case

Why Experience Makes a
Meaningful Difference

Choosing the right attorney can profoundly impact your outcome. With the right criminal defense attorney,
you gain:

  • Clarity During Uncertainty A clear understanding of your charges, options, and possible outcomes.
  • Protection of Your Rights Safeguards against improper procedures, unlawful searches, or unfair treatment.
  • Reduced Long-Term Consequences Strategic efforts to minimize penalties, protect your record, and preserve future opportunities.
  • Confidence in the Process Knowing your case is being handled carefully, thoroughly, and professionally.

When your future is uncertain, having the right defense makes all the difference.

Proudly Serving Individuals and Families Across
Central Illinois

We work with individuals and families across Central Illinois, including:

Criminal Defense
Residents Facing Criminal Charges

From first-time offenses to complex cases.

Criminal Defense
Parents of Juvenile Defendants

Protecting a child’s future and educational opportunities.

Criminal Defense
Working Professionals

Defense strategies that consider career and licensing concerns.

Criminal Defense
Drivers & Commuters

Help preserving driving privileges and insurance rates.

Criminal Defense
Local Families & Community Members

Representation across Washington, Peoria, Morton, Eureka, and beyond.

Whatever your background or situation, you’ll receive respect, honesty, and dedicated representation.

Why Central Illinois Clients Choose Essig Law Office

When your future is at stake, you need attorneys you can trust. At Essig Law Office, we offer:

Criminal Defense
75+ Years of Combined Experience

A seasoned father-and-son legal team with deep local roots.

Criminal Defense
Honest, Ethical Representation

Clear guidance with your best interests always first.

Criminal Defense
Local, Accessible, Community-Focused Service

Proudly based on Washington’s historic square.

Criminal Defense
Focused Criminal Defense Representation

Dedicated attention to protecting your rights and future.

What Our Clients Say

Here’s what a few of our prior clients have had to say:

“Essig Law Office is a great law firm that always keeps the best interest of their clients in mind. I highly recommend this law firm for your legal and real estate needs!”

Eric S.

“They are awesome lawyers and paralegals. They definitely know the law and are very helpful any time you need them! Absolutely A plus service.”

Gina P.

Your case deserves this level of professionalism and care.

Answers to Common Criminal Defense Concerns

Do I need a lawyer for a first-time DUI in Illinois?

Yes. Even a first-time DUI can lead to license suspension, fines, insurance increases, and a permanent criminal record. An attorney can help defend your rights and negotiate the best possible outcome.

Will a misdemeanor stay on my record?

It depends. Some charges may be eligible for expungement or sealing. We can review your record and explain your options.

What should I do if my child has been charged with a crime?

Contact an attorney immediately. Juvenile cases require swift action to protect your child’s future. We ensure their rights are respected and work toward a fair resolution.

Get Trusted Legal Help Today

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Washington, Peoria, Morton, Metamora, Eureka, or the surrounding Central Illinois communities,
Essig Law Office is here to help.

Your future is too important to navigate alone. Let us help you move forward with confidence.