Felony DUI Defense Lawyer in Joliet

Will County Attorney for Aggravated Driving Under the Influence Charges

At the Law Office of Eric J. Blatti, P.C., we understand that any DUI charge is a serious matter. You could be facing severe criminal penalties, along with the suspension or revocation of your driver's license. When you have been charged with driving under the influence, you need an attorney who is ready and willing to fight for your rights. This is especially true when your case is being handled as a felony.

What Makes an Illinois DUI a Felony?

Illinois law specifies that most first and second-offense DUI charges are to be prosecuted as Class A misdemeanor. A third or subsequent offense, however, is automatically treated as a felony DUI, also called "aggravated DUI." The severity of the charges and the possible penalties for a conviction depend on the circumstances of each case.

It is also possible for first or second offenses to be elevated to felony charges. You could face felony charges for DUI if you are suspected of:

• A second or subsequent DUI with a child under the age of 16 in your vehicle;
• Driving a taxi, Uber, or another vehicle for hire with at least one passenger while under the influence;
• DUI resulting in an accident that causes serious injury or death or any injury to a child;
• DUI without a valid license, registration, or insurance;
• DUI while driving on a suspended license because of a previous DUI; and
• Operating a school bus while under the influence with at least one passenger under the age of 18.

This list is not exhaustive, and there are other ways in which a DUI charge could become a felony.

Bolingbrook DUI Lawyer Protecting Your Future

Depending on circumstantial factors, aggravated DUI charges can range from a Class 4 felony to a Class X felony for the most serious cases. A felony DUI conviction will result in a minimum of 10 days in jail or 480 hours of community service, but much longer sentences are possible. For example, a conviction on a sixth DUI offense could result in a prison sentence of up to 30 years.

At the Law Office of Eric J. Blatti, P.C., we fully understand and appreciate the seriousness of aggravated DUI charges. We also know that your situation is not hopeless, no matter how strong the evidence against you may seem. Our team is prepared to conduct a full review of your arrest and the relevant circumstances, looking for any information that could be used in building your defense. When appropriate, we will negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to help you find a solution that minimizes the effects on your life.

Call 815-744-2500 Today

If you are facing charges for aggravated DUI, you need an attorney on your side right away. Contact our office to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a member of our team. Call 815-744-2500 today. The Law Office of Eric J. Blatti, P.C. serves clients in Joliet, Romeoville, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Lockport, Shorewood, and throughout Will County.