DENNIS A. HARRISON

Is an experienced trial attorney having participated in trials at all levels from misdemeanor to serious felonies.  His excellent investigative skills aid in case development and preparation.  Dennis has the knowledge to guide clients to satisfy the requirements of drivers license reinstatement and with the presentation of administrative hearings.  Client services include providing follow through to clear criminal records with expungements.  Also provides civil litigation and family law representation, including post decree.

General Background

  • Education
    • Bachelor of Arts Degree, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, 1972
    • Juris Doctor Degree, John Marshall Law School, Chicago, Illinois 1986, graduated with distinction
    • Licensed to practice law in Illinois, 1986
    • Licensed to practice law in Federal District Court 1986
    • Admitted to Trial Bar for the Northern District of Illinois, 2005

Legal Employment

  • 2002 – 2012  was associated with, Laraia & Hubbard, P.C. and for the past three years a partner in the firm of Laraia, Harrison &Laraia, P.C.
    Practicing in criminal defense – DUI, misdemeanor, felony, juvenile matters, drivers’ license reinstatement, civil litigation, and family law
  • 1999-2002.  Assistant State’s Attorney, DuPage County, Wheaton, Illinois Prosecutor misdemeanor and felony divisions
  • Private Practice, 1986-1999
  • Police officer, Village of Downers Grove, 1976-1999
  • Deputy Chief of Police, 1998-1999
  • Supervisor, Investigations Division 1987-1998
  • Coordinator DuPage County Felony Investigations Assistance Team
    From 1996-1999.  Multi-Regional Task Force Comprised of Thirteen Law Enforcement Agencies
  • Liaison with State and Federal Law Enforcement

Associations

  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • DuPage County Bar Association
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • DuPage County Criminal Defense Bar
  • National College of DUI Defense Attorneys

Special Assignments/Accomplishments

  • Trial experience in traffic, DUI, misdemeanor and felony criminal matters
  • Former lead prosecutor, DuPage County DUI courtroom
  • Graduate Northwestern Staff and Command School
  • John Reid Interview and Interrogation School
  • Multiple evidence collection and analysis training seminars
  • Accident reconstruction – investigation and reconstruction of traffic accidents
  • Authored policies on use of force and vehicle pursuits

Lecturer

  • Various police training seminars
  • Constitutional law
  • Search and seizure