For Your Defense Michael E Brandt, Attorney

10/08/2026

Please vote in the November 3 2026 election. For the Peoria County Resident Circuit Judge position on the ballot, vote for Judge Tim Cusack. He is the most qualified judicial candidate. He's efficient, effective, and knowledgeable. He's independent in his decision-making.

I have known Judge Cusack for decades and have observed him in court. As a retired Peoria County Circuit Judge and Chief Circuit Judge, I ask you to look at his qualifications. And party labels really mean nothing in judicial elections. A judge is sworn to be unbiased and decide a case based on the law and the facts. Judge Cusack has shown he will do just that.

Folks can vote early at the Peoria City and County Board of Elections. I know, I did and I voted for Judge Tim Cusack.

Keep Judge Tim Cusack

09/24/2026

Vote Judge Tim Cusack Peoria County Circuit Judge, effective, experienced, independent

A proven judge that brings experience, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to fairness for every family, every case, and every citizen of Peoria County.

07/30/2026

We are honored to welcome President Abraham Lincoln back to his corner at Main and Jefferson after more than a year. We missed you. 🎩❤️

The bronze Lincoln Draws the Line statue was dedicated in October 2001 and lies near the spot where Lincoln gave his famous "Peoria speech" denouncing slavery in 1854. The new fountain behind the statue features some of the most inspiring quotes from that speech.

07/16/2026

Of the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence, 25 were lawyers. As the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of this historic milestone, learn more about the important role lawyers played in the founding of the United States: https://bit.ly/43tWSCT

07/12/2026

A recent change in Illinois Traffic law effective June 1, 2026 requires drivers to slow down when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or emergency scene, proceed with caution, and yield the right of way to emergency workers, authorized emergency vehicles that are obviously and actually engaged in work on a highway at an emergency scene and pedestrians directly involved in the emergency scene.

Violations leading to personal injury or property damage could result in suspension of driving privileges.

If a driver receives a citation for a violation, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer.

06/26/2026

Illinois law allows for a person who has wilfully failed to obey a court order (such as not paying court ordered child support) to be held, after a hearing, in jail for indirect civil contempt of the court. The court must find not only that the person wilfully failed to pay but also has the ability to pay. The sentence is indefinite allowing the delinquent person to be released upon payment. That is they have "the keys to their jailhouse cell."

Here's an extreme example.

Steve Fanady, 61, isn't in jail for a crime. He's being held for civil contempt but says he doesn't have the money to pay up. He says he lives on hard-boiled eggs and peanut butter in the Cook County Jail. And he wants out. The courts have found his jailing "coercive" but legal.

04/21/2026

Starting June 1, 2026, expungement and sealing laws for criminal records in Illinois have been substantially changed. For example, some of the waiting periods have been relaxed and the drug test requirement has been eliminated.

Contact me at 309/369-1813, text or leave a voicemail, to set up a no cost phone consultation.

Law Day, commemorated annually on May 1, serves as a national day of observance and celebration that affirms the country’s commitment to the rule of law.

"As a national organization of lawyers committed to defending liberty and pursuing justice, the ABA encourages all Americans to recognize Law Day on May 1 and to reflect on how the rule of law ensures all Americans have the ability to fulfill their dreams. The law belongs to all of us and together, it’s ours to protect and advance,” said ABA President Michelle A. Behnke.

Check out the list of Law Day events: https://bit.ly/4sJmjul

01/24/2026

The nation’s founders created the judiciary as an independent, co-equal branch of government to make sure it is protected from outside political influences. The ABA is committed to upholding the Constitution, the judicial process and equal justice under the law. Learn more at: https://bit.ly/4fX0Bhv

12/10/2025

The Public Interest Law Initiative with the 10th Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee which includes Peoria and Tazewell Counties conducts a monthly Help Desk at each courthouse (Peoria and Pekin). Low income clients without attorneys may receive a no cost consultation to discuss their legal issue/problem. You do not need an appointment.

During a 2-hour shift, volunteers meet with Self-Represented litigants for 30-minute appointments to help them understand and navigate the legal process, fill out forms and answer questions.

The help desk in Peoria County is held at the courthouse once a month, location and times vary.

The help desk in Tazewell County is held at the courthouse once a month typically either from 10 AM-12 PM or 2 PM to 4 PM depending on the date. The help desk in Tazewell County has a virtual hybrid option where the attorney can appear via Zoom or in person according to their preference.

For more information on upcoming dates and times, contact the court administration office at the Peoria or Tazewell County Courthouse.