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John William Callahan

Licensing Attorney at Naperville, IL

4.8   51 reviews

also known as John W Callahan, John Callahan

  • Licensed for 25 years
    State IL
    Acquired 1997
    Status
    Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    25%
    DUI Lawyer in Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties. Aggressive Defense! Also helping clients reinstate their license from DUI revocations in the State of Illinois.

    26 years, 2,000 cases

  2. Licensing
    25%
    DUI License Reinstatement lawyer John W Callahan has helped hundred of clients clear up and reinstate their Illinois driver's license after being revoked by the Secretary of State for a DUI conviction

  3. Criminal defense
    20%
    Attorney Callahan is a premier criminal defense lawyer in the great state of Illinois. If you've been charged with any serious crime, you'll need a thoughtful and aggressive advocate by your side. Call Attorney Callahan for a free consultation.

    26 years, 3,000 cases

  4. Sex crime
    15%
    Attorney Callahan is a knowledgeable sex crime lawyer. If you've been accused of a sex crime, you'll want someone who knows the nuances of the laws and someone as aggressive and detailed as Attorney Callahan. Call today for a free consultation.

    26 years, 200 cases

  5. Federal crime
    10%
    If you are being investigated for a federal child pornography charge or federal sex crimes investigation, Attorney John W Callahan has the experience to help you in federal court.

    24 years

  6. Violent crime
    5%
    If you've been accused of a violent crime, you'll need a great lawyer. Stop worrying, call Attorney Callahan immediately for a free case evaluation.

    26 years, 150 cases

John Callahan takes the practice of law very seriously.  He gives every ounce of his work effort to defending those charged with crimes from felonies to DUI.  Very often his finds himself representing clients at the Secretary of State to reinstate their driver's license in Illinois after a DUI revocation.

 

John gives every client his personal cell phone for 24 hour access whenever they have questions or concerns.

 

Photos and videos

Contact John

John W. Callahan, Ltd.
1755 Park Street.
Suite 200
Naperville, IL, 60563
John W. Callahan, Ltd
1701 E. Woodfield Road
Suite 1101
Schaumburg, IL, 60173-5156
John W. Callahan, Ltd.
22 W. Washington
Suite 1500
Chicago, IL, 60602
Hide locations

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  51 customer reviews
Posted by Christopher | July 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you
John stood by my husband's side till his license were reinstated! It was 23 years since my husband has a license and John made the whole process simple! We highly recommend him as a lawyer to get you legal again!! Thank you John Christopher
Posted by John | October 20, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Permanent Revocation
John did an excellent job representing me. The process went smooth and he achieved everything I asked of him. He is excellent at handling these cases.
Posted by anonymous | June 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Money well spent
Getting a DUI is stressful, John is the lawyer you need on your side. He represented me for my 3rd DUI and also for my drivers license reinstatement hearing where I was granted full driving privileges again just 2 years later. I had a difficult case and he did an amazing job representing me. He is responsive and friendly. If you’re looking for a DUI attorney or someone to represent you at your drivers hearing, look no further. Save yourself the additional headache and let John represent you.
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Posted by Rick | November 27, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic Court
John handled my teenagers traffic citation recieved in a car accident. He was very professional, went above and beyond our expectations and the citation was dismissed. I would highly recommend John's services!
Posted by DJ | August 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent defense attorney
John is an excellent defense attorney. I’m going through a divorce and had a situation where my wife accused me of battery, in an attempt to relocate our minor children. I hired John, and he immediately went to work mounting and aggressive defense. After 2 months my case was dismissed. But had it gone to trial - John is who I would have wanted in my corner. He really cares about his clients and will go above and beyond to give you your fair shake. Every case is different, but I was completely innocent so I was just glad that things worked out.
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Posted by Stephanie | May 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional & Thorough
I hired Mr. Callaghan same day I consulted with him. Thanlfully he was nothing but professional & thorough. He atteneded to all of my questions & concerns quick and in a timely manner. I've certainly appreciated how he handled things and have trusted his every decision.
Posted by anonymous | April 26, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent consultation
John offered a detailed, experience based and specific course of action in response to my fears about potential charges. I met with him twice and it became clear he has a high level of integrity, dedication to his potential clients and an honesty and directness which was helpful and refreshing. Although I don't need his services at the moment I will turn to him with full confidence if I do.
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Posted by anonymous | March 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Would recommend
I was very impressed with how great John and his team handled my case. I walked into his office unsure of my chance of keep my license. He answered all my questions and took the time to walk me through the process. I would recommend him to anyone who has a DUI and is serious about their defense.
Response from John Callahan April 12, 2018
Thank you for such a kind review! Very happy that you were able to not lose your license!
Posted by anonymous | January 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer who Cares
John did an amazing job with my case and helped me every step of the way. I was nervous and just wanted it all to end. John did a great job keeping me informed and helped reduce charges. I can now sleep easier.
Response from John Callahan January 17, 2018
Thank you so much for posting your thoughts on how we helped with your matter!
Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expert at getting your driving privileges back!!!!
I had a lot of worries about getting approved for my RDP, but Mr. Callahan prepared me for the process and we were very successful. I did not even have to get a Ignition interlock device! Highly recommended!!
Response from John Callahan December 21, 2017
Thank you so much for the kind words!
Posted by William | December 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI Lawyer
John got my license reinstated after i tried twice to do it on my own. He is very knowledgeable of Illinois DUI laws. I had 5 DUI arrest over a 4 year period, over 35 years ago. He was present at my Hearing and represented me. Without his counsel, I may not have got reinstated. If you have DUI problems, you should consult and hire him.
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Posted by Mark | October 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I never give out 5 stars but ...
John Callahan deserves all five stars. He was there for me at all times of the day and on holiday weekends. John is smart, and, streetwise. He know how to navigate the legal system and will give you advice along the way. In addition to being a great lawyer, John is a decent person with true empathy for his clients.
Posted by anonymous | May 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Out-of-State Issues handled quickly and promptly; Highly recommended services
Several years ago made some bad choices while living in another state and still holding an IL license. Took care of everything in the other state and obtained their license. I thought everything was good to go. License was expiring in the new state, went to renew and found out I had a revocation and a do-not-issue order from IL Secretary of State. Contacted John and in about 6 months later received my Clearance Letter from IL. Make no mistake... there were SO many hoops to jump through, but John was aware of them, coached me through them, and knew what the path forward was. The whole ordeal was way more expensive in IL than the state I got into trouble with, but was worth the quick turn around John provided (IL is extremely slow and lathargic). Thanks John!
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Posted by anonymous | May 16, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptionally Professional
From the first meeting to the last John was there for me. My case was unusual but John adapted to all of the changes and ultimately help me in a time of need.
Posted by Julie | April 24, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best of the best
John is the absolute best person I would have chosen to help me through my case. He's kind, compassionate and it's evident that he truly cares about his clients. He's not just a lawyer, but a support system who's always there to answer questions while navigating through the court processes. I was truly lucky in finding somebody as great as him to represent me.
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Posted by Bryan | March 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Drivers License Reinstatement
Navigating your way on your on through the maze that is IL Sec of States rules to get your drivers license back is a very difficult process. Do not make the mistake to attempt this on your own. You need a seasoned pro like John, who knows these rules to guide you on your way back to full reinstatement. John & his team will help you get back on the road. They did for me. Thanks again John
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Posted by anonymous | January 25, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent, professional and gets the job done.
I was convicted of two DUIs and had lost my driving privileges for several years. I had been through so much pain, and I had no one to blame for my troubles but myself. For the past several years, I had struggled with all the difficulties and problems that come with alcoholism and lost driving privileges. Fortunately, after my second DUI, I was placed on probation and had remained sober and going to AA meetings for several years. I also learned, albeit slowly, to abide by the law. I was referred to Mr. Callahan by another attorney. From the get-go, John wasted no time getting down to business. It wasn't cheap, but he made clear all the steps we would be going through to get my license back. There would be paperwork to fill out and file to the Secretary of State. I would also have to get all the documents pertaining to my case as well as letters. Of course, I would have to keep my nose clean and stay out of trouble if I wanted to have any chance during the hearing. Mr. Callahan's office was exceedingly diligent in getting the paperwork ready, reviewing documents, preparing me, and answering any questions I had. I was coming in from out of state, so his counsel was valuable in getting me settled in. I had never been to Joliet before, but he explained what to expect which calmed my nerves. I arrived early, got situated, and we were able to review my case some more. I must say that going before the Secretary of State is no joke. They go through EVERYTHING. If you obviously still have issues, you would probably be found out. Fortunately for me, after so many years of pain and work and with the help of Mr. Callahan and his office, I was approved on my first attempt and am now a licensed driver! I thank Mr. Callahan and the wonderful folks at the office for their help and consider them friends.
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Posted by Daniel | November 17, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney - A Life Saver
Hiring John Callahan was one the best and most important decisions I've ever made. I was arrested on suspicion of DUI. I reached out to several law firms and John responded quickly. He was genuine, candid, and informative. I had never been arrested and was extremely nervous of what I was about to go through. John put me at ease and talked me through the entire process. I felt immensely better after our initial consultation. John and his staff are professional and responsive. John was a calming influence at each of my court dates and took time to discuss everything in detail with me. My case went to trial. John is a brilliant trial lawyer and ran circles around the prosecution. His cross examination of the witness was impeccable. His knowledge of proper DUI arrest/field sobriety protocol was extraordinary. He was able to point out numerous errors/mistakes made by my arresting office. I received a NOT GUILTY verdict by a notoriously tough judge. I'm so thrilled to have hired John for my case and urge you to make the same choice I did - I can promise that you won't regret retaining Mr. Callahan's services.
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Posted by Mary | June 5, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I hired attorney John Callahan after receiving a ticket for speeding 27 miles over the posted limit which is a Class B misdeameanor in Illinois. At the first court date, the prosecutor made an offer which John recommended I refuse. At the second court date, the prosecutor made the same offer which John again recommended I refuse, instead recommending that I go to a bench trial. At the bench trial, my case was dismissed. If it weren't for John's expert advise and his tenacity to keep fighting, I would have ended up with a misdemeanor on my record in addition to a fine and court supervision. It would have been far easier for John to recommend that I go with the prosecutors initial offer, not to mention less time consuming and less costly for him. I have the utmost respect for John and would recommend him to anyone who requires the services of an attorney.
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Posted by Ruben | April 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Criminal Defense Case
I hired mr. John Callahan acouple months ago!m. I was very afraid about my future but thanks to John knowledge, experience and fast action in criminal defense we were successful in beating the case. Bringing back to me peace of mind. From the very beginning of the consultation I knew he was the indicated lawyer to handle my case. I was given a free consultation immediately and we sat and discuss about case without no rush. He took the time to answer all my questions in a very professional and carefully manner. He guided me through the whole process. John has great communication skills and has strong personality! He was very clear and honest about my chances. He also was honest about the hole case fees and without hidden fees!! John Callahan never failed to defend me in any way. In conclusion. I can say that he is very good talented lawyer in what he does and an honest lawyer! I will definitely recommend him to friends and family and will hire him again! Thanks Mr. John W. Callahan
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • President
  • John W. Callahan, Ltd.
  • 2003 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Michael T. Norris, Ltd.
  • 1998 - 2003

Education

  • DePaul University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1992

Legal Cases

  • People v R.B.
  • Not Guilty Verdict
  • People v R.P.
  • Finding of Not Guilty
  • People v P.R.
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Will County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Northwest Suburban Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • DuPage County Bar Association
  • DCBA Brief Editorial Board Member 2004
  • 2003 - Present
  • Federal Trial Bar for the Northern District of Illinois
  • Lawyer
  • 2002 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois
  • 2002 - Present
  • United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
  • 2001 - Present
  • MENSA
  • 1997 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 20 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chicago
  • Expertise
  • 2018
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2015
  • 10 Best Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in Illinois
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2015
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2014
  • 10 Best Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
  • 2014
  • Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in Illinois
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2014
  • Excellent Rated
  • AVVO
  • 2013
  • Superb Rated
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in Illinois
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2013
  • National Scholarship Winner
  • Direct Marketing Education Foundation
  • 1992
  • Scholarship Award Winner
  • Jones Intercable
  • 1990
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Art Institute of Chicago
  • Constitutional Law
  • 2005

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)
Given (11)
Endorse John
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known John Callahan for over ten years as a lawyer. I refer all criminal matters to Mr. Callahan because I know my client's best interests will be served by him. Mr. Callahan is an excellent lawyer and extremely knowledgeable. The clients that I have referred to Mr. Callahan have faced very difficult situations and he has secured tremendous result for them, and they have been more than satisfied with his ability and most importantly, the end result."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is an outstanding criminal defense attorney. I regularly refer clients to him who sing his praises and have become repeat customers."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Callahan is a top notch attorney who is well respected by the entire legal community. This is an attorney that I would trust my family members and closest friends to, and whom I proudly endorse!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Callahan is a great lawyer with formidable legal skills; strongly liked and respected by the lawyers and judges in the legal community. This is an attorney that I absolutely endorse!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I first encountered John when I was an Assistant Cook County Prosecutor. He was opposing counsel on many of my cases. John is was of the best defense attorneys I know. He is a tough-as-nails defense attorney, yet, he never alienated opposing counsel or the judge. He is well respected and that respect is well deserved."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John Has an excellent reputation among his peers. He is respected by both defense attorneys and prosecutors because he zealously represents his clients with sincere concern. I would certainly recommend him."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known John Callahan for several years and endorse him without hesitation. He is a knowledgeable and skilled attorney who will always work tirelessly for his clients."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I worked on several complex DUI matters with John W. Callahan over the years. Whether it is your first or subsequent offense Mr. Callahan is very tough when it comes to winning your case. If you cannot afford to lose your driving privileges then you must afford an aggressive defense. I highly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Mr. Callahan. He is an experienced and well qualified practioner who is a strong advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Callahan is an excellent criminal defense attorney with whom I have had the pleasure to work in the past. He is competent, compassionate, extremely reliable and client-focused. John is also always willing to lend a hand and has assisted me with last-minute issues. I highly recommend John Callahan for DUI and Criminal Defense in DuPage, Cook and other Chicago-area counties."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is a top-notch criminal defense attorney to whom I have referred my corporate clients who are in in need of competent counsel. He is smart, service-oriented and a pleasure to work with. One of John's greatest strengths is his knowledge of local courts and local judges, a factor that allows him to get things done quickly and efficiently. I endorse him to anyone seeking quality representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have worked successfully with John on a number of multiple defendant cases. He is very skilled and is everything a client would want in a Criminal Defense Attorney. I fully endorse this lawyer's work."
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Divorce and separation
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Criminal defense
State, local, and municipal law
Criminal defense
Land use and zoning
Criminal defense