Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Illinois, with penalties designed to deter individuals from endangering themselves and others on the road. A DUI conviction can lead to severe legal, financial, and personal consequences. At Daniel G. Berry, Attorney at Law, we assist Chicago residents in understanding and navigating the complexities of DUI cases.

Legal Consequences of a DUI in Illinois

1. First Offense:

• Fines and Penalties: Up to $2,500 in fines.
• License Suspension: Mandatory suspension of driving privileges for 12 months (or 6 months with an approved monitoring device).
• Jail Time: Possible imprisonment for up to 1 year.
• Community Service: May include a minimum of 100 hours if the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.16% or higher.

1. Second Offense:

• Fines and Penalties: Up to $2,500, with additional penalties for aggravated circumstances.
• License Revocation: Suspension of driving privileges for 5 years if the second offense occurs within 20 years of the first.
• Jail Time: Up to 1 year in jail, with a mandatory minimum of 5 days or 240 hours of community service.

1. Third and Subsequent Offenses (Aggravated DUI):

• Class 2 Felony: A third offense is considered a felony, carrying harsher penalties.
• Fines and Penalties: Up to $25,000.
• License Revocation: Indefinite loss of driving privileges.
• Imprisonment: Possible 3-7 years in state prison, depending on the severity of the offense.

Additional Penalties

• Ignition Interlock Devices: Installation of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) may be required to regain limited driving privileges.
• Driver’s Education Programs: Completion of an alcohol education or treatment program is often mandated.
• Increased Insurance Rates: A DUI conviction significantly raises car insurance premiums and may result in policy cancellation.

Long-Term Consequences

A DUI conviction has lasting effects, including:

• A permanent mark on your criminal record.
• Difficulty securing employment or housing.
• Loss of professional licenses for certain careers.

How Daniel G. Berry, Attorney at Law, Can Help

Facing a DUI charge in Illinois can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Daniel G. Berry, Attorney at Law, we work diligently to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and explore all available defenses. Whether you’re dealing with your first DUI or a more severe charge, our experienced legal team is here to help.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Chicago, contact Daniel G. Berry, Attorney at Law today for a consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.