Free Consultation
$0 first 30 minutes
Sarah E. Toney
About Sarah
Biography
Sarah has been representing defendants in cases ranging from misdemeanors through reckless homicides for the past 18 years. She was an Adjunct Professor at Loyola University of Chicago School of Law for 13 years where she taught Legal Writing, as well as helped run the Expungement clinic where students represented real clients and appeared at the Cook County Criminal Courthouse.
In 2020, she was appointed by the Governor of Illinois to the Forensic Science Task Force as the only private lawyer to examine the efficiency of Illinois crime labs. In 2016, she was accepted into the month-long Trial Lawyers College, and in 2019, was asked to join the faculty.
In 2014, Sarah became a Charter Member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association where she served on the Board of Directors. In 2018, she was appointed to the Justice Foundation, the charitable arm of the DUI Association, which helps fundraise and award scholarships to seminars to lawyers in need, and she still serves on the Foundation today.
Sarah was named Young Lawyer of the Year in 2014 by the Illinois State Bar Association. She is AV rated Preeminent lawyer by Martindale Hubble. In the past two years, she has appeared on Court TV and NBC 10 pm News to discuss current criminal cases, and been named a Top 50 Woman Lawyer by Super Lawyers, and a Top 100 Lawyer by Super Lawyers. She also served as mentor to another female lawyer with the Commission on Professionalism in 2016-2017.
Sarah frequently serves as a guest speaker at John Marshall Law School, and has authored a chapter in the IICLE handbook for DUIs, most recently in 2020. She is on the board of the IL Bar Foundation and served on the Lawyers Care Committee, helping lawyers and their families in need, especially during Covid where she participated in awarding 50 grants to struggling lawyers. She also served on the Gala Committee for the IBF, helping to plan and raise funds for the annual fundraiser.
Sarah has also attended countless seminars from science classes to learn blood testing in DUI and drug cases, to breathalyzer classes working hands on with the machines that IL uses to breahalyze drivers, to DNA classes with the expert from the Amanda Knox trial. She has gone through the same officer training as police officers with regard to administering Field Sobriety Tests, which is very useful in every DUI case when an officer testifies how those tests were performed on the client.
Sarah was a featured attorney on the radio show Money for Lunch. Listen here:
It is important that you hire a good lawyer as soon as you can after your arrest. In many cases, there are things that should be done before your first court date, lie file motions or request the preservation of evidence that might be destroyed within a few days. Give Sarah a call for a free consultation, and read her reviews below.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.
Search our directory
Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.
Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.
Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.
Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Illinois for 21 years
State: Illinois
Acquired: 2004
No misconduct found
Location
The Toney Law Firm, LLC
105 W. Adams Street, Suite 2150, Chicago, IL, 60603
Ad
Transform legal challenges into solutions.
Connect now to review your situation.
Sarah E. Toney's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
35 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (35)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
Showing 1 - 5 of 10 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge
Posted by anonymous | June 16, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
She's a Lifesaver
I would highly recommend Sarah Toney if you need help. I had a rather complicated issue being that I had my second DUI. She fought for me and was able to reduce my charges, sparing me of a heavy burden on my record. I have a professional degree, so a second offense would have been very detrimental to...
Posted by Mike | October 12, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Professional, conscienscous, and effective.
I needed a lawyer with experience in the system to handle an exaggerated traffic offense. Ms. Toney wasn't the first lawyer I called, but she was the first to have all the right answers to my questions. She did a great job, gave me the right feedback, and handled everything in court. I'm a picky re...
Posted by Robert | January 13, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
Believe the reviews!
When I needed an out of state attorney to overturn a 35-year-old fraudulent DUI conviction I chose Sarah based on the profile information on her website and the Avvo reviews from associates and former clients. I understand now why she has so much positive feedback. She is a pleasure to work with; ho...
Posted by Earnest | October 12, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Administrative Law
An Outstanding Lawyer
I retained Attorney Toney to represent me in a very unique Formal Hearing with the Secretary of State. This case and situation is 16 years old and was just brought back up and appeared on my record in 4/2015. I had another lawyer prior to Attorney Toney and didn't realize how bad he was until I met...
Posted by Joey | October 30, 2014 | DUI & DWI
D.U.I
I recently hired Sarah for a D.U.I case. And I have to say she did an outstanding job. Very professional ready to fight your case always. Very impressed with her knowledge. Was ecstatic with the results tomy case. Just a Great Job!!!!!
Sarah E. Toney's Lawyer Endorsements
"Sarah is an experienced and compassionate litigator who zealously advocates for her clients. I highly recommend Sarah to everyone. She is absolutely someone that you want in your corner!"
"Sarah is an excellent attorney. She is knowledgeable and she fights for her clients. I would recommend her to anyone."
"Sarah Toney is an outstanding lawyer and a rising star in her field. Sarah is hard-working, smart, and compassionate. She always brings her A game to the table. I would not hesitate to refer friends and family to Sarah."
"Atty. Toney is one of the preeminent DUI lawyers in the State of Illinois. Whenever a client needs a referral for any criminal matter in the Chicago area my first call is always Sarah Toney. Highly recommend!"
"Sarah is a talented and tenacious advocate. If I were accused of a crime, I would hire her to represent me."
"I knew Sarah by her reputation before I was exposed to her incredible work, and there are not enough superlatives to describe her efforts on behalf of people accused of crimes. You want someone who is Real when they are going to advocate for your freedom. Sarah is genuine, compassionate and the way she relates to the stakeholders in cases is both effective and REAL. That is the Real Sarah, and that helps your case. Chicago is a tough town, Sarah is your guide and counselor. Call her."
"Sarah's mastery of the law and unparalleled preparation only scratch the surface of why she is the best defense attorney in Chicago. Sarah's command of the courtroom alone separates her from other lawyers. She also spent a month away from her busy practice helping lawyers to improve their trial skills. If a lawyer needed a lawyer, they'd hire Sarah Toney."
"I endorse Sarah. She is highly skilled, talented and experienced lawyer. Sarah is compassionate and truly cares about her clients. She is very well respected by the legal community."
"Sarah is one of the most talented and driven lawyers I have ever met. I endorse Sarah because she is the real deal-- a tough, compassionate fighter who never gives up on her clients. If you're going to trial, you need Sarah on your team."
"Sarah presented a CLE on DUI/DWI to our law firm last week and it was very informative. Sarah was an excellent public speaker and all of the lawyers thoroughly enjoyed her presentation and learned a lot. If I ever need to refer a client who has run into this type of problem, I will absolutely be sending them to Sarah Toney!"
"Sarah is extremely knowledgeable about criminal law and she genuinely cares about her clients. I have referred cases to her and the clients have been delighted with her work. I highly recommend her and will continue to send clients her way. She was named Young Lawyer of the Year in 2014 and then Illinois Super Lawyers in 2015 and 2016. She has been an adjunct professor at Loyola Law School since 2006. When you need an attorney who has experience with a wide variety of challenging issues, you call Sarah."
"Sarah is one of the top attorneys in Chicago and I know my clients will be in great hands when they are working with Sarah."
"When I refer DUI matters to Sarah, I know the client is in good hands. She is a master of her craft, successfully defending clients and teaching sophisticated breathalizer techniques across the country. In all the ways that matter--knowledge, compassion and relatability--Sarah is stellar. I highly recommend her!"
"Sarah is an exceptionally knowledgeable, honest and down-to-earth attorney in the Chicagoland area. She is on my shortlist for referrals, and she does not disappoint! A gem in the legal community."
"Sarah is very thoughtful, knows what questions to ask, and implements a very thorough work ethic with her practice."
"Sarah is an exceptional defense attorney for DUI and criminal cases. She is always on the ball and stays current on any legal changes on the horizon. Sarah is knowledgeable, hardworking and has a wonderful relationship with her clients. I feel confident referring criminal and DUI matters to her office as I know she will provide an exceptional defense in any case."
"Sarah Toney is an exceptional criminal and DUI practitioner who will leave no stone unturned. I would recommend her to anyone I cared about who needed a great lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Sarah is a leader in her field. I would never hesitate to send a client to her."
"Sarah is a fantastic lawyer. She's very active in the legal community, is always willing to go the extra mile for her clients, and is always ready for trial. I highly recommend her."
"I met Sarah while representing a client during a Summary Suspension hearing; she graciously answered my questions regarding a procedural issue. She's extremely bright and knowledgeable!"
Matthew Margolis
Estate planning lawyer
Tiffany Hughes
Divorce and separation lawyer
Rebeccah Graham
Personal injury lawyer
Kristine Honiotes
Criminal defense lawyer
Daniel Skarie
DUI and DWI lawyer
Andrew Delaney
Personal injury lawyer
William Luse
Criminal defense lawyer
Joshua Schiffer
Criminal defense lawyer
Anthony Johnson
Criminal defense lawyer
Duran Keller
Personal injury lawyer
Paul Morgan
Criminal defense lawyer
Robert Linton
Medical malpractice lawyer
David LaCross
Criminal defense lawyer
Abdinasir Abdulahi
Personal injury lawyer
Nicholas Gurney
Personal injury lawyer
Rebecca Neubauer
Personal injury lawyer
Mason Cole
Litigation lawyer
James Gay
Personal injury lawyer
Abosede Odunsi
Estate planning lawyer
Alen Takhsh
Immigration lawyer
Experience
Honors
2016
Illinois Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2016
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Illinois Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2014
Young Lawyer of the Year Award, Illinois State Bar Association
2014
Rising Star, Illinois Super Lawyers
2013
Rising Star, Illinois Super Lawyers
2013
Newsletter Editor Service Award, Illinois State Bar Association
2012
Rising Star, Illinois Super Lawyers
2011
Rising Star, Illinois Super Lawyers
2010
Rising Star, Illinois Super Lawyers
Work Experience
2006 - Present
Adjunct Professor, Loyola University Chicago School of Law
2004 - 2011
Associate, Komie and Associates
Associations
2014 - Present
DUI Defense Lawyers AssociationBoard of Directors
2014 - Present
National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial LawyersMember
2014 - Present
Illinois State Bar Association, Marketing and Communications CommitteeAppointed Member
2012 - Present
Illinois State Bar Association, Standing Committee on Law Office Management & EconomicsAppointed member
2010 - Present
Women's Criminal Defense Bar AssociationMember
2008 - Present
Illinois State Bar Associaton, Traffic Laws and Courts SectionNewsletter Editor
2004 - Present
Illinois State Bar AssociationMember
2004 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember
2004 - Present
Chicago Bar AssociationMember
2015 - 2016
Illinois State Bar Association, Standing Committee on Law Office Management & EconomicsVice-Chair
2014 - 2015
Illinois State Bar Association, Standing Committee on Law Office Management & EconomicsSecretary
2012 - 2014
National College for DUI Defense, Diversity CommitteeAppointed Member
2012 - 2014
YLD Holiday PartyCo-Chair
2012 - 2013
Illinois State Bar Associaton, Traffic Laws and Courts SectionChair
2012 - 2013
Union League Club of Chicago Athletic CommitteeAppointed member
2012 - 2014
Union League Club of Chicago Health Benefits and Wellness CommitteeAppointed Member
2011 - 2012
Illinois State Bar Association Traffic Laws and CourtsVice Chair
2010 - 2015
Illinois State Bar Association, Young Lawyers DivisionCo-Chair, Social Committee
2010 - 2011
Illinois State Bar Association, Traffic Laws and Courts SectionSecretary
2010 - 2015
Illinois State Bar Association, Young Lawyers DivisionAppointed member
Sample of Legal Cases
People v. David Hall
Court affirmed suppression of blood results
Education
2003
Loyola Law School, Loyola Marymount University
JD - Juris Doctor
2000
Miami University of Ohio
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2015
DUIDLA Winter Seminar
Using Social Media To Your Advantage
2014
Solo and Small Firm Practice Institute
Social Media Savvy
2014
Nuts and Bolts of Running Your Own Practice
The Golden Rules
2014
Chicago Bar Assoc. Solo/Small Firm Practitioners
Criminal Defense/DUI Law
2013
Volunteer Training
Statutory Summary Suspensions
2013
Solo and Small Firm Seminar
DUI/Traffic Law: The Impact of Drugs and Alcohol on Your Client's Records, Arrest to Expungment
2013
Solo and Small Firm Seminar
Landmines In Opening Your Own Practice
2013
Basic Skills Seminar
Your New Legal Career
2012
The Nuts and Bolts of Starting Your Own Law Firm
Networking
2012
DUI Defense Seminar
Ask the Experts
2012
Courtroom Cross Skills
DUI Summary Suspensions
2012
CLE Fest
How to Market Yourself Effectively
2011
Illinois Basic Skills
Professionalism for new lawyers
2011
How to represent clients in their suspension hearings
Petition to Rescind Statutory Summary Suspensions
Publications
2015
Illinois Lawyers Care
Young Lawyer Finds True Calling
2014
Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Editor
2013
Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Editor
2012
ISBA Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Meesage From the Chair
2012
Women Defying Gravity
Women of NCDD: Sarah Toney
2012
Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Editor
2011
Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Editor
2010
Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Editor
2009
Traffic Laws and Courts Newsletter
Editor
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I received my first and hopefully only DUI and was on court supervision for a year. Does thiscount as a conviction on my record
06 Sep 2020
Q&A
I have two dui in IL, WI says I’m eligible to get licenses there does that include cdl?
12 Jul 2020
Q&A
Was arrested for dui because on benzodiazepines will I go to jail?
16 May 2020