Top DUI Lawyers in Illinois

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a serious offense in Illinois, and it is important to understand the laws surrounding DUI arrests in the state. An Illinois DUI conviction can result in severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. In this article, we will explore the rate of DUI arrests in Illinois over the past few years and how getting an Illinois DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge.

DUI Arrest Rates in Illinois

According to the Illinois Secretary of State, there were 20,131 DUI arrests in Illinois in 2020. This marks a decrease from the 26,224 DUI arrests made in 2019. However, the decrease in DUI arrests is not necessarily indicative of a decrease in the number of people driving under the influence, as the COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted the rate of DUI arrests in 2020.

Penalties for DUI in Illinois

The penalties for a DUI in Illinois can be severe, depending on the circumstances of the case. The following is a general overview of the penalties for DUI in Illinois:

First Offense:

• A fine of up to $2,500
• License suspension for up to one year
• Possible jail time of up to one year
• Mandatory completion of a substance abuse program

Second Offense (within 20 years of the first offense):

• A fine of up to $2,500
• License suspension for up to five years
• Mandatory jail time of at least five days, up to one year
• Mandatory completion of a substance abuse program

Third Offense (within 20 years of the second offense):

• A felony charge, punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000
• License revocation for up to 10 years
• Mandatory jail time of at least 10 days, up to seven years
• Mandatory completion of a substance abuse program

Fourth and Subsequent Offenses:

• A felony charge, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000
• License revocation for life
• Mandatory jail time of at least 30 days, up to 15 years
• Mandatory completion of a substance abuse program

It is important to note that these penalties are a general overview and that the specific penalties for DUI in Illinois may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.

How an Illinois DUI Lawyer Can Help You Beat a DUI Charge

If you have been charged with a DUI in Illinois, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced Illinois DUI lawyer. An experienced Illinois DUI lawyer can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to help you beat your DUI charge.

One of the main ways that an Illinois DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge is by challenging the evidence against you. This may include challenging the results of field sobriety tests, challenging the validity of a breathalyzer or blood test, or arguing that the police did not have probable cause to stop you in the first place.

Another way that an Illinois DUI lawyer can help you beat a DUI charge is by negotiating with the prosecutor. An experienced DUI lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea bargain that reduces your charges or minimizes your penalties. This may include negotiating for a reduced fine, a shorter license suspension or revocation, or a reduced jail sentence.

An Illinois DUI lawyer can also help you prepare a strong defense strategy for trial. They can investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to support your case. Additionally, an experienced DUI lawyer can present your case in court and argue on your behalf.

It is important to remember that time is of the essence when it comes to DUI charges in Illinois. If you have been charged with a DUI, you only have 90 days to file to prevent a mandatory license suspension for a DUI. Get one of the top Illinois DUI lawyers today to protect your right to drive.