DUI Attorneys for First-Time DUI and Multiple DUI Charges in Illinois
Every driving under the influence (DUI) charge is a serious one. While a first-time DUI charge comes with significant penalties, those associated with multiple DUIs are much more severe. At Beck & Houlihan, P.C., our team has extensive experience in criminal defense. Our attorneys aggressively fight all DUI charges and have been defending clients since 2001. We understand every case is different — affected by many different factors — and we know what it takes to successfully fight these charges.
Definition of Driving Under the Influence in Illinois
Illinois state law prohibits driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drugs, intoxicating compounds, or any combination thereof. You do not have to be “drunk” to be charged with DUI. You can be charged with DUI if the alcohol concentration in your blood or breath is .08 or more or if there is any amount of a drug, substance, or compound in your breath, blood or urine resulting from the unlawful use or consumption of cannabis, an intoxicating compound or methamphetamine.
First-Time DUI
Driving under the influence is a Class A misdemeanor carrying a sentence of up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. In addition, anyone transporting a person under the age of 16 years at the time of the violation is also subject to six months in jail, a minimum fine of $1,000, and 25 days of community service.
If your alcohol concentration level was .16 or higher, mandatory minimum, there is a mandatory minimum of 100 hours of community service and a fine of $500. What many people also do not realize is that your driver’s license will also be suspended with a DUI arrest, and you only have 45 days to contest the suspension or risk your license remaining suspended for an extended period of time. Repeat offenders face longer periods of suspension.
Multiple DUIs in Illinois
Being convicted of a second DUI carries harsher penalties and the revocation of your driving privileges for a minimum of one year. Upon conviction of a second DUI you will be sentenced to a mandatory minimum term of either five days in jail or 240 hours of community service. In addition, if your alcohol concentration level is .16 or higher, you will also be subject to a minimum of two days in prison and a fine of $1,250.
A third, fourth, fifth, or greater conviction is considered aggravated DUI, as it leads to a possible felony conviction. Penalties are severe and include the possibility of a lifetime license revocation, as well as significant fines and long prison sentences.
Facing Drunk Driving Charges in Illinois? Contact Our Wheaton DUI Attorneys.
Given the complexity of the DUI laws and their impact on your rights, it is imperative you reach out to our skilled DUI attorneys if you are facing DUI charges. Contact us at 630-398-3185 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our aggressive criminal defense representation. You have the opportunity to avoid a conviction and serious repercussions if you contact our experienced attorneys right away.