Illinois Ranked in Top 20 for Strictest DUI States

 Posted on August 23,2016 in DUI

When it comes to DUI laws and penalties, each state is different. A recent analysis, which was conducted on all 50 of the United States, found Illinois to have some of the aggressive DUI programs. What does this mean for Illinois drivers who are charged with a DUI? First and foremost, it means that every driver facing a DUI should seek assistance from an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney. The following information explains why.

Even First-Time Offenders Face Serious Consequences

While many other states simply assign a fine and possible jail time for those convicted of a first-offense or even second-offense DUI, those charged and convicted of a DUI within the state of Illinois face far more serious penalties, even for their first DUI offense.

After a DUI arrest, Illinois offenders are issued a summary suspension of their license. Unless they contest the charges, this automatically suspends their license within 45 days of issuance. Some may be able to seek driving relief through a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP), but this requires that the driver install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). This adds even more fees – calibration fees, monthly maintenance fees, and installation fees – to their growing list of DUI penalties.

License Suspension and Look-Back Periods

Those convicted of a first offense lose their license for a year. Second-time offenders have their driving privileges suspended for five years. On a third offense, the offender’s license is suspended for 10 years. Those who are charged and convicted of any subsequent offenses lose their license for the rest of their lives. Even more concerning is that there is no expiration of a DUI in Illinois, so even if there is a 20-year time span between your third and fourth conviction, you could lose your license for good!

Aggravating Factors Can Easily Bump Up Charges

Whether facing a first-offense DUI or a fifth, those who have certain “aggravating” factors attached to their DUI charges can face even heavier penalties if they are convicted. These include a number of possible circumstances, such as driving intoxicated with a minor in the vehicle, causing great bodily harm or death in a motor vehicle accident while intoxicated, or driving intoxicated on a license that has been suspended or revoked. Add any one of these factors to your situation and it becomes an aggravated DUI, which is considered a felony in the state of Illinois.

Contact an Experienced Arlington Heights DUI Defense Lawyer

Do not let a DUI haunt you for the rest of your life. Contact Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, and get the experienced and aggressive representation you deserve. Backed by more than 25 years of experience, our Arlington Heights DUI defense attorney is committed to helping you achieve the most favorable outcome possible for your situation. Schedule your initial consultation by calling 847-253-3400 today.

Sources:

http://www.wrex.com/story/32728596/2016/08/10/illinois-among-strictest-states-on-dui-wisconsin-among-the-least 

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf