Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is a serious matter in the state of Illinois. Because initial DUIs are categorized as misdemeanors, you may not think your DUI will have much of an impact on your life. However, this is far from true. If you want to minimize or avoid the harsh consequences that can follow a DUI conviction, you should bring in an attorney experienced in Illinois DUI defense.
DUI CHARGES IN ILLINOIS
In Illinois, you can be charged with DUI if you are found driving or in physical control of your car (whether the vehicle is moving or not) with a certain amount of alcohol or drugs in your body or if law enforcement determines you are impaired.
This can occur in the following scenarios:
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Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measures .08 percent or higher
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You are “under the influence” of alcohol regardless of your BAC
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You are under the influence of alcohol, intoxicating drugs, or a combination of both to the point that driving capability is impaired
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You are found with any amount of drugs in your system
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You are found with five nanograms of THC (from cannabis) in your blood
A first offense DUI is a Class A misdemeanor, with potential penalties of up to a year in jail, fines reaching $2,500, and a one-year license suspension. Additional consequences may include community service, probation, mandatory alcohol/drug evaluation, recommended treatment, and attendance at a victim impact panel. Expect increased auto insurance rates or possible cancellation
If you were found driving with a passenger under 16, or your BAC measured .16 percent or higher, or you have prior convictions, you can expect even stiffer penalties.
During your license suspension, you may apply for a restricted license that will allow you to drive to work, school, medical appointments, and alcohol or substance treatment. However, you will have to install and maintain an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle at your own expense to do so.
Finally, a conviction will leave you with a permanent criminal record that can be accessed by future employers, landlords, higher education institutions, and professional licensing agencies to whom you will have to explain what happened. Future opportunities may be closed to you because of this.
Because of the negative effects of a DUI conviction, it is essential that you turn to a competent and proven defender. Our Chicago DUI lawyers routinely defend drivers against DUI charges and have years of experience in doing so.