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W. Scott Hanken
also known as Scott
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About W.
Biography
I was born in and have remained a lifelong resident of Springfield, Il. I attended Griffin High School and completed my undergraduate Bachelor of Arts Degree at Marquette University. While growing up, I had frequent interaction with local attorneys and judges which played a large role in my decision to pursue a career as an Attorney. As a result, I attended Creighton University and obtained my Juris Doctor Degree in 1989. While in Law School I was a legal clerk/intern at several Law Firms located in Omaha and ultimately acted as a 711 Intern in the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office. Following my graduation from Law School and based upon my internship, I was offered and accepted a position as an Assistant State’s Attorney. During my tenure as an Assistant, I handled and tried many Criminal, traffic and DUI cases and developed the skills necessary to navigate the criminal justice system.
I entered the private practice of law in 1990, and the core of my practice involved civil and criminal litigation. As time passed my practice migrated almost exclusively to Criminal, traffic and DUI Defense. In that time span I have defended a wide range of cases from a simple traffic matter to Capital Murder offenses. My goal and practice is the same no matter what the charge and I understand and appreciate the impact criminal charges have upon the lives and liberties of my clients. I believe my experience, background and proven results have garnered the numerous client reviews and testimonials from happy and grateful clients over my 35 years of practice. I endeavor in each case I handle to listen, communicate and provide the absolute best defense available for those facing charges.
My mission is to provide each and every client with the highest quality representation possible in order to obtain the best results achievable in every case. I am further dedicated to vigorously and aggressively defending every client facing charges and ensure that they are heard.
Education- Creighton University School of Law, Omaha, Nebraska - J.D. - 1989
- Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin - B.A. - 1985Honors: Political Science
- Capital Litigation Trial Bar Association, Member Member Since: 2004 - current
- Illinois State Bar Association, Member Member Since: 1989 - current
- Sangamon County Bar Association, Member Member Since: 1989 - current
- Sangamon Country Bar Association, President Member Since: 2004 - 2005
- Sangamon Country Defense Bar Association, President Member Since: 1993 - 2005
- Sangamon Country Bar Association, Director Member Since: 1992 - 1993
- Sangamon Country Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, President Member Since: 1990 - 1991
- American Association for Justice, Member Member Since: 1991
- The Association of Trial Lawyers of America, Member Member Since: 1990
- Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, Member Member Since: 1990
- Attorney/Partner at Rabin, Myers & Hanken, P.C., 1996 to 2011
- Public Defender at Sangamon County Public Defender, 1997 to 1999
- Associate at Long, Morris, Myers and Rabin, P.C., 1994 to 1996
- Associate at Pfeifer & Kelty, P.C., 1990 to 1994
- Assistant State's Attorney at Sangamon County State's Attorney Office, 1989 to 1990
- Capital Litigation Trial Bar Association, Capital Litigation Bar, 2004
- Gaining The Best Settlement in Auto Injury Cases, NBI, 2009
- Aggravated DUI - Resent Developments, ICLE, 2008
- Gaining the Best Settlement in Auto Injury Cases, Attorney Continuing Legal Education, 2009
- Solo Practitioner
- Super Lawyer - DUI, Super Lawyers, 2007
- Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers - Illinois (American Society of Legal Advocates), 2014
- Top 200 DUI Attorneys - Illinois (National Advocacy for DUI Defense), 2013
- Top Criminal Defense Lawyer Superb 10.0 Rating AVVO, 2010-2014
- Client's Choice Award - Criminal Defense AVVO, 2012
- Top Contributor - Criminal Defense AVVO, 2013
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%
DUI and DWI
40%
Speeding and Traffic Ticket
20%
36 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Licenses
Licensed in Illinois for 36 years
State: Illinois
Acquired: 1989
No misconduct found
Location
Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find W. online.
W. Scott Hanken's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
185 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (185)
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Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Case Results (138)
Advocacy (66)
Recommendation (61)
Practice Area Knowledge (38)
Professionalism (35)
Communication Style (25)
Responsiveness (25)
General Knowledge (23)
Character & Conduct (21)
Cost of Services (17)
Trustworthiness (14)
Compassion (9)
Staff & Support (5)
Punctuality (3)
Free Consultations (1)
Showing 1 - 5 of 25 reviews | Responsiveness
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, 2026Serving 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 Matthew | June 01, 2022 | Hired Attorney
Unbelievable
From start to finish I was very impressed and pleased with the way Mr Hanken handled my case. The compassion he showed for my situation made me feel at ease when talking with him knowing that I had someone with strong ties, knowledge, and respect standing in my corner advocating for me. I had many qu...
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026I’m truly pleased that my experience as a veteran criminal defense attorney helped secure such a positive outcome in your case. Since 1989, and drawing on my background as a former Assistant State’s Attorney, I’ve remained committed to providing compassionate, results-driven representation for clients facing criminal charges in the Sangamon County court system. It means a great deal to know that W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law delivered the clear communication, accessibility, and strong advocacy you needed while navigating your matter in Springfield, Illinois. Thank you for trusting me with your defense. I’m grateful for your kind recommendation and remain ready to assist others in the Springfield community who need experienced criminal defense counsel.
Posted by Jordan | October 07, 2021 | Hired Attorney
Scott Hanken THE Best Sangamon County Lawyer
I had a collision in downtown Springfield and received a ticket in the mail weeks later. I was scared & nervous so naturally I procrastinated calling an attorney until 18 hours before my first appearance. Lucky for me, my call was to Scott Hanken. Scott took the call at 4:00 PM, appeared for me th...
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026Resolving your traffic case so quickly after you contacted me was exactly the result I was hoping to achieve, and I appreciate you trusting W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law on such short notice. I understand how stressful it can be to receive a citation weeks after a collision in downtown Springfield, especially when facing the Sangamon County court system without knowing what to expect. As a former Assistant State’s Attorney practicing criminal defense and traffic law since 1989, I make it a priority to respond quickly, appear for my clients when possible, and work toward the best outcome available under Illinois law. I truly appreciate your kind words and am grateful I could help put this matter behind you so efficiently.
Posted by Jordan | October 07, 2021 | Hired Attorney
Scott Hanken THE Best Sangamon County Lawyer
I had a collision in downtown Springfield and received a ticket in the mail weeks later. I was scared & nervous so naturally I procrastinated calling an attorney until 18 hours before my first appearance. Lucky for me, my call was to Scott Hanken. Scott took the call at 4:00 PM, appeared for me th...
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026Resolving your traffic case so quickly after you contacted me was exactly the result I was hoping to achieve, and I appreciate you trusting W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law on such short notice. I understand how stressful it can be to receive a citation weeks after a collision in downtown Springfield, especially when facing the Sangamon County court system without knowing what to expect. As a former Assistant State’s Attorney practicing criminal defense and traffic law since 1989, I make it a priority to respond quickly, appear for my clients when possible, and work toward the best outcome available under Illinois law. I truly appreciate your kind words and am grateful I could help put this matter behind you so efficiently.
Posted by anonymous | July 09, 2021 | Hired Attorney
Wonderful, Down-to-Earth, Professional Attorney
I am 1,000% happy with my choice to hire Scott Hanken to represent me. I was stopped at a road block after a wedding and was issued a DUI. I called Scott a couple days later and he immediately took action. When meeting with him, he made me feel comfortable and confident that I was in the right hands....
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026A first DUI charge at a roadblock is one of the most frightening legal situations a person can face, and the fact that W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law was able to secure a court supervision outcome — meaning no conviction on your permanent record — is precisely the kind of result that experienced DUI representation in Springfield, Illinois can make possible. Illinois court supervision on a first-offense DUI is not guaranteed, and protecting a client’s record through every available legal avenue is the standard W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law has delivered for clients throughout the Sangamon County court system for more than 35 years. I am glad the consultation put you at ease, because confidence between an attorney and client is the foundation of an effective DUI defense strategy — from the first phone call all the way through the final court date. You handled a difficult situation with courage, and it was my privilege to be in your corner. PS: My sarcasm is well earned!
W. Scott Hanken's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer. He is a very skilled attorney, well versed in the law, and he achieves great results for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
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Experience
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 AssociationPast President
1993 - 2005
Sangamon County Defense Bar AssociationPresident
1992 - 1993
Sangamon County Bar AssociationDirector
1990 - 1991
Sangamon County Bar AssociationVice President
Sample of Legal Cases
People v. Lash
Natural Life Imprisonment
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
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I paid half cash and half of my bond does my lawyer take the bond at the end of the case?
18 Feb 2023
Q&A
When I look up my cases online it says I have a new charge w a unscheduled court appearance what does that mean?
18 Feb 2023
Q&A
2021 I let my son use my car he get stop for no driving license they impond the car give him a ticket and later say they found ?
14 Feb 2023
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Illinois Retail Theft Charges: Why the $300 Line Matters
30 Jul 2026
Legal Guide
Why AI Can’t Replace a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Illinois
27 Jul 2026
Legal Guide
Notice, Summons, or Warrant: How Illinois Courts Bring You Back for a Probation Violation
27 Jul 2026