Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
5.0 /5.0
182 Client Reviews
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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
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Case Results (137)
Advocacy (65)
Recommendation (61)
Practice Area Knowledge (38)
Professionalism (35)
Communication Style (25)
Responsiveness (24)
Character & Conduct (21)
General Knowledge (21)
Cost of Services (17)
Trustworthiness (14)
Compassion (9)
Staff & Support (5)
Punctuality (3)
Free Consultations (1)
Showing 1 - 5 of 183 reviews
Posted by anonymous | December 05, 2019 | Hired Attorney
Excellent, worry free representation
I’m beyond glad I found Mr Hanken for my traffic ticket. He was able to resolve the matter quickly and effectively and the outcome was the best possible. My matter was extra problematic as I am working in a different state but Scott was able to take care of everything.
W. Hanken
Replied last June 17, 2026Protecting a client’s driving record and livelihood — especially when distance and out-of-state employment complications are part of the equation — is precisely the kind of challenge W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law is built to handle efficiently in the Sangamon County court system. Resolving traffic matters quickly and effectively, without requiring a client to be physically present in Springfield, Illinois, reflects the practical, results-focused approach that has defined this practice for over three decades. Whether the issue involves a single traffic ticket or more complex driving-related charges, W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law works to achieve the most favorable outcome while minimizing disruption to a client’s life and career. Your recommendation means a great deal, and it is gratifying to know that a difficult situation was turned into the best possible result.
Posted by anonymous | August 15, 2019 | Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
Scott was great! He and his legal team were able to help me through an unfortunate situation. He made this process as stress free as he possibly could. 10/10 would recommend!
W. Hanken
Replied last June 17, 2026Guiding a client through an unfortunate and stressful legal situation with clarity and confidence is a standard W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law holds in every matter that comes through this office in Springfield, Illinois. The goal is always to make an inherently difficult process as manageable as possible — and hearing that was accomplished here is genuinely rewarding. Whether facing criminal charges, a DUI, or other serious legal challenges in the Sangamon County court system, every client deserves focused, experienced representation and a team that treats them with care from start to finish. A 10/10 recommendation from someone who lived through the process firsthand is the most meaningful measure of success.
Posted by Casey | May 27, 2026 | Hired Attorney
The best
Words can’t explain how amazed I was when he took my case & didn’t even bat an eye. It’s like he knew what I needed and wanted before I even did. VERY experienced VERY educated ! & I’ve watched him & his team in action & boy do they not play! Not to mention, I’m a Texas resident just visiting Illinoi...
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026Helping an out-of-state visitor successfully navigate unexpected criminal charges requires a precise, proactive strategy, and I deeply appreciate the trust you placed in me to resolve your situation. As a former Assistant State’s Attorney who has practiced criminal defense since 1989, my mission at W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, is to anticipate legal hurdles before they arise and deliver uncompromising advocacy. Whether fighting for lifelong locals or visitors facing the complexities of the Sangamon County court system here in Springfield, Illinois, I always strive to provide experienced, detailed support. I am thrilled that my legal background and dedication to your case provided the strong outcome you needed to return home to Texas with peace of mind.
Posted by Melissa | November 02, 2023 | Hired Attorney
Efficient
Mr. Hanken and his whole staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Any questions that I had were answered in a timely manner. Would definitely recommend for any case that you may have, big or small.
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026Providing prompt, knowledgeable answers to your legal questions is a standard I demand, and I am thrilled that my assistant Carrie and I could provide you with a supportive, reassuring environment. Since 1989, my mission at W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, has been to leverage my insight as a former Assistant State’s Attorney to deliver uncompromising criminal defense representation for cases of all sizes. Navigating criminal charges within the Sangamon County court system requires a highly strategic approach, and I am proud to provide that level of authoritative counsel right here in Springfield, Illinois. I deeply appreciate your resounding recommendation and the absolute trust you placed in my legal experience to resolve your situation.
Posted by anonymous | April 19, 2023
Superb lawyer
Scott always is there to help you in any way he can. He is always straight to the point and gets things done with out you having to worry about a thing. I have always chosen Mr. Scott W Hanken and will continue to. He genuinely cares about his clients! 100% recommend.
W. Hanken
Replied last May 27, 2026Earning your continuous trust and lifting the burden of worry from your shoulders is exactly why I approach every case with straightforward, dedicated advocacy. Since 1989, my mission at W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, has been to leverage my background as a former Assistant State’s Attorney to provide uncompromising criminal defense. Navigating serious criminal charges within the Sangamon County court system requires a direct, proactive strategy, and I am deeply committed to delivering that level of reliable counsel right here in Springfield, Illinois. I am truly honored by your ongoing loyalty and your resounding recommendation of my legal representation.
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
E-Bikes add new wrinkles
18 Jun 2026
Legal Guide
7 Things That Happen When You Miss a Traffic Court Date in Illinois
18 Jun 2026
Legal Guide
Things You Need to Know After Getting a Ticket from a Fender Bender in Illinois
18 Jun 2026