DUI Law in Chicago, IL

What Is a DUI?

DUI, which refers to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a criminal offense that can lead to weighty consequences. Also known as DWI, the process of going to court to face either conviction or exoneration can change the course of your life forever.

Learn more about your DUI law defense options below, and then talk to a local attorney in Chicago, Illinois who will help you in this delicate situation. You don’t have to stare down consequences alone. You can take wise steps today to protect your interests.

Possible Consequences of a Chicago, Illinois DUI Conviction

Where you live, the severity of the incident, and your criminal record determine the sentencing for a DUI. The punishments can drastically increase if you have had previous DUIs, so be mindful of that. If this is your first DUI, do not go at it alone and risk costly mistakes. Get a Chicago law firm on your side to fight for you and your rights.

Paying Fines

If convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Chicago, Illinois, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing. According to The Illinois DUI Factbook, a first offense DUI in Chicago could carry a mandatory minimum fine of $500. The maximum fine for a first offense Illinois can run as high as $2,500.

However, other factors can drastically increase the amount you must pay, including:

  • Any damage to property while driving under the influence
  • If someone suffered injuries as a result of your intoxicated driving
  • Cases that include child endangerment
  • Any court costs associated with your case

Jail Time

Jail time is mandatory, even for first-time offenders in Chicago. If this is your first DUI offense, you may only have to face a day or two in prison. But if you have previous convictions for DUIs, you can be sentenced to several months or years, depending on the nature of the crime. Know that some circumstances can add even more time in a cell, including injury to other people while driving under the influence.

Probation

If you do not face jail time, you will likely be on probation, with the sentencing judge determining the duration. You will pay monthly fees, and you cannot commit any more criminal offenses, including traffic violations. If you violate the terms of your probation, count on facing time behind bars.

Probation is the most frequently used sentence in the U.S. If a judge has placed you on probation you’ll be reporting to a probation officer. You’ll have to check in at appointed times, submit to random drug screenings, and possibly random visits to your residence. You’ll be required to abstain from any drug use, obey all laws, and stay within state lines unless approved by the court. Cook County has several different Adult Probation Offices.

Drug and Alcohol Education Program

Following a Chicago DUI sentencing, the law states you must complete a drug and alcohol education program. This will teach you about the dangers of driving under the influence. These programs cost more fees besides the legal costs you already have to pay.

The Chicago Treatment and Counseling Centers offer DUI Programs in 4 levels, all based on your need and case history. You’ll pay $200 for the initial evaluation. You could pay anywhere from $150-$2,000 in subsequent fees, and have anywhere from 10 hours to 75 hours of Risk education and Treatment. To reinstate your license in Chicago, you’ll be required to pay a fee of $250 for a first offense.

The education programs also include a DUI evaluation. An evaluator asks you questions about how alcohol and drugs affect your life. If they believe that you are dependent, you may have to enter a substance abuse treatment program.

Suspension or Loss of License

No matter where you may face a DUI conviction, you have to undergo a license suspension period, at the very least. If it is your first DUI, you may have a license suspension for a few months while you go through probation and the drug and alcohol education program.

If this is not your first DUI, you may have your license suspended for much longer, or you could have it taken from you permanently.

What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Chicago, Illinois?

If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:

Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With Chicago, IL  DUI Law

Immediately following your DUI arrest, you need to contact an experienced Chicago DUI attorney. Your attorney can help prepare for your arraignment and prepare a defense to vindicate yourself or reduce the sentencing.

Step 2: Learn About Your Local DUI Laws

Chicago, Illinois has unique laws for DUI or DWI charges. Your lawyer will work with you to help you better understand your state’s laws on driving while intoxicated. It is critical to understand what charges you face and the potential outcomes of your case. 

Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing

You or your attorney should request a hearing as soon as possible following your arrest. In Chicago, Illinois you only have so much time to ask for a DMV hearing to keep your license until your court appearance. If you do not request a hearing, prepare for a license suspension.

The Office of the Secretary of State of Illinois mandates that all requests for hearings be submitted in writing through the U.S. mail. This request should also be accompanied by a non-refundable filing fee of $50 in the form of a check, money order, or credit card.

Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance

You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Chicago. If you plead “not guilty,” your DUI defense attorney represents you in court, and a judge and jury oversee the DUI law case.

Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration

You will either be “not guilty” of the charges brought against you and walk free, or you will receive sentencing for a guilty verdict.

Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Chicago, Illinois

Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Chicago, Illinois lawyer who can stand up for you in court. You cannot clear your name of the charges or reduce the consequences without help. Your life and future depend on having great legal representation during your DUI case. Contact an attorney near you today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Illinois state lines.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!

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