For decades, an Illinois statute made it illegal for residential occupants to allow intoxicated minors to leave the home. The offense was a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a sentence of imprisonment of up to one year, and a $2,500.00 fine. The statute did not describe just what conduct was prohibited, and just what conduct would be necessary in order to avoid violating the law.

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Magen J. Mertes, formerly Magen J. Thompson of Rock Falls, Illinois, has joined the law firm of Pignatelli & Mertes, P.C., as an associate attorney. 
 
Magen Mertes was raised by her parents, Larry and Judy Thompson, in the City of Rock Falls, Illinois.  She graduated as salutatorian from Rock Falls High School in 1997.  After high school, she attended Illinois Wesleyan University, graduating in 2001 with an International Business major and double minor in French and Asian studies.  During this undergraduate period of study, Mrs. Mertes studied abroad in France, China and Japan.

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