What Kind of DUI Charge Am I Facing?

 Posted on August 29, 2024 in DUI

Getting charged with a DUI in Illinois is a serious matter, but it is important to remember that good people sometimes make mistakes. One moment of poor judgment can lead to life-changing consequences, including losing your driver’s license, facing hefty fines, and even spending time in jail.

If you find yourself facing a DUI charge, understanding what you are up against is the first step toward making smart decisions about what to do next. Seeking the guidance of a skilled Will County, IL criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in protecting your future.

What Are the Different Types of DUI Charges?

In Illinois, DUI charges can vary depending on the circumstances of your arrest. The most common charge is a Standard DUI, which occurs when you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. However, there are other types of DUI charges you might face.

• Aggravated DUI: This is a more serious charge that applies if you have multiple DUI offenses, were driving without a valid license, or caused an accident resulting in injury or death. An aggravated DUI is classified as a felony, which can lead to much harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and steeper fines.

• DUI for Drugs: This charge applies if you are caught driving under the influence of illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs that impair your ability to drive.

• CDL DUI: If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), the standards are even stricter. A BAC of just 0.04 percent can result in a DUI charge, and a conviction can lead to the loss of your CDL, severely impacting your ability to work and earn a living.

How Are DUIs Punished Under Illinois Law?

In Illinois, the penalties for a DUI conviction can be severe, and they become harsher with each subsequent offense. For a first-time DUI, you could face up to one year in jail, fines of up to $2,500, and a one-year suspension of your driver’s license. For second or third offenses, the penalties increase significantly, including longer jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspensions or permanent revocation.

Aggravated DUI charges are much more serious and are classified as felonies. For example, if you are caught driving under the influence while your license is suspended or revoked from a previous DUI, you could be charged with a Class 4 felony, which carries a sentence of one to three years in prison and tens of thousands of dollars in fines. Another example is if your DUI results in a crash that causes serious injury to another person. This could be charged as severely as a Class 2 felony, with penalties including three to seven years in prison and significant fines.

For those with a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a DUI conviction can lead to the loss of your CDL for a minimum of one year, even for a first offense. This can be devastating if your livelihood depends on your ability to drive commercially.

Contact a Joliet, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing DUI charges is a stressful experience because so much of your future is on the line. Whether you are dealing with your first DUI or facing the more severe penalties of an aggravated DUI, having the right legal support can make all the difference.

A local Joliet, IL criminal defense attorney knows the ins and outs of the local court system and can craft a defense strategy tailored to your case. From negotiating with prosecutors to fighting for reduced or dismissed charges, Attorney Blatti can help protect your rights and your future. Do not face any type of DUI charge alone — reach out today to get the help you need. Call the Law Office of Eric J. Blatti, P.C. at 815-744-2500 for a free consultation.