Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Illinois

I Need My Work Truck Back That Was Illegally Towed

My truck was parked on private property. The Lawrence County Law Enforcment had it towed away and impounded. The on duty officer is falsely stating that it was parked in the street. It was not!! I have five witnesses that can honestly back me on this. However, the towing company is also sticking with the officers mis-information. I can not get my truck back without paying over $400 in storage fees. All of my tools are in my truck, therefore I am not able to work. Shouldn't they have to release my truck on the grounds that they illegally removed it from private property, therefore clearing me of all storage fees due?


Asked on 6/09/03, 10:40 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Regina Mullen Legal Data Services, PLC

Re: I Need My Work Truck Back That Was Illegally Towed

You might be able to negotiate a settlement with the city after you sue them, but I suspect that for that sort of bill, you're going to have to get a court order to have it released.

This isn't the fastest way, but you might ask for an expedited hearing because you need your tools for work. A lawyer would be useful here, if you need something to happen faster.

First, find out what the local process is for towing and for challenging an illegal tow. Then you can decide whether to hire counsel, pay the fee and then try to get your money back.

Read more
Answered on 6/09/03, 10:50 pm
Mary McDonagh McDonagh-Faherty Law Offices

Re: I Need My Work Truck Back That Was Illegally Towed

You need to contest the tow according to local procedure but all of this takes time. I might suggest that you get your truck back and then sue the city for the cost. However, if all of these people are saying it was on the street, then it's going to be your word against theirs and it becomes a credibility issue for the judge. Tough case.

Read more
Answered on 6/10/03, 12:23 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Civil Rights Law questions and answers in Illinois