Here in the state of Illinois, thousands of drivers are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, each year. According to statistics compiled by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, a staggering 27,046 DUI arrests were made statewide, throughout 2017. After being charged with driving under the influence, it is important to act quickly. A DUI conviction can not only come with harsh criminal punishment, but also significantly impact other aspects of your life. From difficulty securing employment to challenges finding housing opportunities, a DUI charge should not be taken lightly. If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to speak with a legal professional.

The Legal Ramifications of a DUI

Due to the dangers of drinking and driving, the legal implications of a DUI conviction are incredibly harsh, in Illinois. If convicted, a first-time DUI offender will likely face a Class A misdemeanor, up to a year in prison, and as much as $2,500 in fines. A first-time DUI conviction will also result in a driver’s license suspension. While a second DUI conviction still constitutes a Class A misdemeanor, the driver will face license revocation for a minimum of five years. In the event of a third conviction, the legal punishments become much more severe.

Everyone makes mistakes, unfortunately, some mistakes come with severe consequences. For those that elect to drive while under the influence of alcohol, the mistake of getting behind the wheel can be life-altering. Driving under the influence can result in a fatal car accident, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), found that over 10,000 Americans were fatally injured in automobile accidents involving alcohol, throughout 2016.

While not all drivers that make the decision to drive while inebriated, take their own life or the life of another, many are arrested on charges of driving under the influence. In 2016 alone, over 1 million Americans were convicted of DUI charges. Understanding the implications of a DUI conviction may keep you from getting behind the wheel of a car. That said, if you have been accused of driving under the influence, it is time to seek out a legal team you can trust.

The penalties for a DUI often include hefty fines, jail time, a driver’s license revocation, and a permanent criminal record. If your DUI has left you with these life-altering penalties, you may consider appealing your DUI case. By filing an appeal, your DUI charges may be reduced, dismissed, and/or removed from your criminal record altogether.

In the event that you do decide to file your appeal, the appellate court may reverse your conviction, affirm it, or send it to a trial court for a hearing. Since the appeal process for a criminal case can be lengthy and complicated, you should consult an experienced Illinois DUI lawyer. You may be convicted of a lesser charge if strong evidence is given in court.

Although any DUI arrest in Illinois is considered a serious legal matter, those involving aggravated DUI charges are especially concerning. Such charges can result in heightened penalties and fines, and they may even result in a permanent scar on your criminal record. Learn more about the potential consequences of an aggravated DUI charge, and discover how an experienced criminal defense lawyer may be able to help.

DUI versus Aggravated DUI