W. Scott Hanken

PRO

W. Scott Hanken

also known as Scott

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 36 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Springfield, IL
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Speeding & Traffic Ticket

1100 South Fifth Street, Springfield, IL

Free Consultation

About W.

Biography

Springfield, IL Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney | 37 Years in Sangamon County Courts | Former Prosecutor | Avvo 10.0 | Super Lawyers 20 Years | W. Scott Hanken Learn more about how an aggressive and experienced Criminal, DUI and Traffic Defense Attorney can help you at www.hankenlaw.com

My mission is to obtain for each and every client the absolute best result achievable. Springfield, IL Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney | 37 Years in Sangamon County Courts | Former Prosecutor | Avvo 10.0 | Super Lawyers 20 Years | W. Scott Hanken

Every DUI charge is a serious case, and I give my personal attention and focus to every client. Springfield, IL Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney | 37 Years in Sangamon County Courts | Former Prosecutor | Avvo 10.0 | Super Lawyers 20 Years | W. Scott Hanken

My main goal is to help you keep your license and stay on the road. Springfield, IL Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney | 37 Years in Sangamon County Courts | Former Prosecutor | Avvo 10.0 | Super Lawyers 20 Years | W. Scott Hanken

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 40%

40%
DUI and DWI 40%

40%
Speeding and Traffic Ticket 20%

36 years

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 36 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 1989

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Location

W. Scott Hanken

1100 South Fifth Street, Springfield, IL, 62703

hankenlaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find W. online.

W. Scott Hanken's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

186 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 187 reviews | 5 stars

Posted by Jessica | August 10, 2026 | Hired Attorney

The best path forward

It’s hard to put into words how grateful we are for everything he has done for our son and our family. Our son found himself going down the wrong path and making some choices that could have had a lasting impact on his future. During an incredibly difficult and stressful time for our family, we were ...fortunate to have an attorney who not only advocated for him, but genuinely cared about him as a person. He was honest and straightforward with our son, while still treating him with compassion, respect, and dignity. He helped him navigate situations we never imagined we would be facing as parents, answered his questions, eased our worries, and worked incredibly hard to give him the opportunity to learn from his mistakes and move forward. As parents, there is nothing more important than knowing someone is truly in your child’s corner when they need it most. We will always be grateful for the role he played during this chapter of our son’s life and for the positive impact he had during a time when our family truly needed it. We sincerely hope we never need a criminal attorney again, but if we do, there is absolutely no question who we would call. We would hire him again without hesitation and recommend him wholeheartedly to any family who finds themselves needing someone knowledgeable, compassionate, and truly willing to fight for their client.

W. Hanken

Replied last August 10, 2026

The opportunity to learn from a mistake, correct course, and move forward without a lasting criminal record defining a young person’s future is exactly what W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law fights to preserve in every criminal defense matter handled in the Sangamon County court system. With over 37 years of experience — including years as a former Sangamon County Assistant State’s Attorney who understands how the system evaluates young people facing serious choices — W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law brings both the legal knowledge and the genuine personal investment that families need when a son or daughter’s future is on the line. At W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, every client is treated as a person worthy of compassion, honesty, and dignity — not simply as a case to be managed — because the difference between those two approaches can shape the trajectory of an entire life. Knowing your family would return without hesitation and recommend this office wholeheartedly is the trust W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law works to earn in every case, for every client, and for every family counting on this office when it matters most.

Posted by anonymous | July 17, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Incredible outcome

I retained Attorney Scott after being charged with a DUI. During my consultation I knew he had the knowledge and confidence to defend me properly. He was willing to take the case to trial and deliberated with the state on my behalf. I was speechless with my outcome and the speed at which an agreement... was made. If I could give 1000 stars I would!

W. Hanken

Replied last July 21, 2026

A DUI charge resolved swiftly and favorably in the Sangamon County court system is not a matter of chance — it is the product of trial-ready preparation, prosecutorial experience, and the kind of courtroom confidence that moves cases toward the best possible resolution. W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law brings the perspective of a former Sangamon County Assistant State’s Attorney to every DUI defense matter — an inside understanding of how the state evaluates cases and where agreements can be reached. Super Lawyers has recognized that depth of knowledge and advocacy every year since 2007, and it is exactly what shapes strategy from the first consultation through the final resolution. When a client is speechless at the outcome, that is the standard W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law is built to deliver.

Posted by DJ | July 14, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Accurate and honest

I was in a tight spot, scared and confused. Scott and his team saw to it that I got a meeting quickly and began working on my case. What they explained to me, turned out to be accurate. I’m thankful I did not take on the system myself.

W. Hanken

Replied last July 21, 2026

Serving clients in Springfield, Illinois who are scared, confused, and facing the legal system for the first time is one of the most important things W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law does — and doing it with speed, honesty, and clarity is the standard every client deserves. With over 37 years of criminal defense experience and Super Lawyers recognition every year since 2007, W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law has guided countless clients through the Sangamon County court process with the same accurate, straightforward counsel your review describes. The legal system is complex and unforgiving for those who navigate it alone — which is exactly why responsive, honest representation matters from the very first meeting. I am glad the guidance you received proved accurate, and that you did not have to face that process without experienced counsel in your corner.

Posted by anonymous | July 10, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Professional, Honest, and Excellent Representation

If you’re looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, honest, and genuinely committed to achieving the best possible outcome, I highly recommend Scott Hanken. From the very first consultation, he took the time to explain every step of the legal process in plain language. He never made unrealisti...c promises, but he clearly outlined the possible outcomes, the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and the strategy he planned to pursue. That honesty gave me confidence because I always knew where things stood and what to expect. Throughout the entire process, Scott was responsive, professional, and prepared. Whenever I had questions or concerns, he either answered them directly or made sure I understood why certain decisions were being made. Legal situations are stressful, and having an attorney who communicates well makes an enormous difference. What impressed me most was his experience and attention to detail. It was obvious that he understood both the law and the local court system extremely well. He carefully reviewed every aspect of the case, looked for opportunities to achieve a better outcome, and advocated on my behalf throughout the process. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, he developed a strategy specific to my circumstances. The outcome exceeded what I realistically expected. Scott was able to negotiate a resolution that significantly reduced the long-term impact of my case while protecting my future. I walked away feeling that every dollar I spent on legal representation was worthwhile because of the result he achieved. While no one wants to find themselves needing a defense attorney, having someone with Scott’s knowledge and experience made an incredibly stressful situation much more manageable. Beyond the legal work itself, Scott treated me with respect throughout the process. I never felt judged, rushed, or dismissed. He understood that people can find themselves in difficult situations and approached everything professionally while remaining approachable and compassionate. That combination is something you don’t always find. One thing that stood out was how well he managed expectations. He explained what was realistically possible instead of simply telling me what I wanted to hear. When positive developments occurred, he communicated them promptly and explained exactly what they meant. That level of transparency built a great deal of trust. If I ever needed legal representation again, Scott would be my first call without hesitation. Hopefully I never need his services again, but if I do, I know I would be in capable hands. I would also confidently recommend him to friends or family members who needed experienced legal counsel. Hiring an attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make during a stressful time. Looking back, choosing Scott Hanken was absolutely the right decision. His professionalism, communication, legal knowledge, and dedication to obtaining the best possible outcome gave me peace of mind throughout the entire process. I can’t thank him enough for his hard work and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney who truly advocates for his clients.

W. Hanken

Replied last July 21, 2026

A negotiated resolution that significantly reduces the long-term consequences of a criminal defense matter in the Sangamon County court system does not happen without precise case analysis, strategic preparation, and an attorney who understands both the law and the local court process at every level. W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law brings over 37 years of criminal defense experience to that work — including years spent as a former Sangamon County Assistant State’s Attorney, where I learned firsthand how cases are evaluated, negotiated, and resolved. At W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, honest communication is not a courtesy — it is a strategic tool that keeps clients informed, prepared, and confident throughout the entire legal process. When the outcome exceeds what a client realistically expected, that is the standard of representation W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law is built to deliver.

Posted by anonymous | July 09, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Fantastic Lawyer

If you're looking for an attorney who is experienced, trustworthy, and genuinely cares about his clients, I highly recommend Scott Hanken. I couldn't be more grateful for his guidance and outstanding representation. Thank you, Scott, for everything you did for me!

W. Hanken

Replied last July 21, 2026

Walking away from a criminal matter in the Sangamon County court system with gratitude rather than regret is the outcome every client of W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law deserves — and the one I work toward in every case I take. As a former Sangamon County Assistant State’s Attorney and Capital Litigation Trial Bar certified attorney, I bring both sides of the courtroom to bear on every criminal defense matter handled at W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law. Trustworthiness and genuine care are not soft qualities in criminal defense — they are what allow a client to make informed decisions, stay prepared, and trust the process when it matters most. I am grateful for the opportunity to have represented you and proud that the experience reflected the standard W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law is built on.

See All Client Reviews

W. Scott Hanken's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse W.
Dan E. Way headshot
Dan Way

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a very skilled attorney, well versed in the law, and he achieves great results for his clients."

Sara Mayo Vig headshot
Sara Mayo Vig

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kevin Lee Linder headshot
Kevin Linder

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Scott is an excellent, experienced DUI/DWI attorney and has extensive experience in the criminal law area. I have known Scott for many years and know of his work - he is diligent and conscientious and represents his clients aggressively. He has handled routine matters all the way up to murder trials."

Brian J. Dees headshot
Brian Dees

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known and worked with Scott since 1988. His knowledge of law and his keen wit have been his trademarks. His dedication to his clients is surpassed by few, if any. I enthusiastically endorse this lawyer."

Dennis Sean O'Brien headshot
Dennis O'Brien

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. As a previous prosecutor I appreciate a reasonable attorney who can be a strong advocate for his client. Mr. Hanken does not wage unnecessary war when defending a client, but if the circumstances require it he is a formidable adversary. I would not hesitate to refer clients to him for criminal defense, indeed, i have done so."

Barbara Ballin Collins headshot
Barbara Collins

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ted Harvatin headshot
Ted Harvatin

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Scott gets great results on DUI cases. He does not overpromise what he can do. I receive a lot of calls from people who want to hire me because they are unhappy with their current lawyer. Not ONCE has the lawyer they are unhappy with been Scott."

View All Endorsements
Dan E. Way headshot
Dan Way

Probate lawyer

Daniel Lynn Fultz headshot
Daniel Fultz

Criminal defense lawyer

Sara Mayo Vig headshot
Sara Mayo Vig

Criminal defense lawyer

Kevin Lee Linder headshot
Kevin Linder

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer

Brian J. Dees headshot
Brian Dees

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Barbara Ballin Collins headshot
Barbara Collins

Mediation lawyer

Michael Joseph Mannion headshot
Michael Mannion

Government lawyer

Dennis Sean O'Brien headshot
Dennis O'Brien

Workers compensation lawyer

Ted Harvatin headshot
Ted Harvatin

Administrative law lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2020

BEST ATTORNEY, State Journal Register Reader's Choice Award

2020

BEST LAW FIRM, Illinois Times Best of Springfield

2020

TOP RATED LAWYER, Avvo

2018

Top 10 Attorney - Criminal Defense, Attorney and Practice Magazine

2018

Distinguished Lawyer, Expert Network

2015

Nation's Top One Percent, The National Association of Distinguished Counsel

2014

"10 BEST" Attorneys for the State of Illinois Nominee, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyer, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers

2013

Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers - Ilinois, American Society of Legal Advocates

2013

Top 200 DUI Attoneys - Illinois, National Advocacy for DUI Defense

2011

Superlawyer - DUI Law, Super Lawyers

2010

Super Lawyer - DUI, Super Lawyers

2009

Super Lawyer - DUI, Super Lawyers

2008

Super Lawyer - DUI, Super Lawyers

2007

Super Lawyer - DUI, Super Lawyers

2007

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

Work Experience

2011 - Present

Attorney, W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law

1992 - 2011

Attorney/Partner, Rabin, Myers & Hanken, P.C.

1991 - 1993

Public Defender, Sangamon County Public Defender

1989 - 1991

Assistant State's Attorney, Sangamon County State's Attorneys Office

Associations

Sangamon County Bar Association

Member

Capital Litigation Trial Bar Assocation

Member

Chicago Bar Association

Member

Illinois State Bar Association

Member

American Bar Association

Member

Illinois Trial Lawyers Association

Member

American Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2004 - 2005

Sangamon County Bar Association

Past President

1993 - 2005

Sangamon County Defense Bar Association

President

1992 - 1993

Sangamon County Bar Association

Director

1990 - 1991

Sangamon County Bar Association

Vice President

Sample of Legal Cases

People v. Lash

Natural Life Imprisonment

See More Legal Cases

Education

1989

Creighton University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1985

Marquette University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2009

Attorney Continuing Legal Education Gaining the Best Settlement in Auto Injury Cases

2008

Illinois DUI Defense Seminar

Aggravated DUI - Recent Developments

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution