The True Consequences of a DUI Conviction

 Posted on July 17, 2020 in DUI

Despite the fact that law enforcement officials are constantly on the lookout for drunk or impaired drivers, many Illinoisans make the decision to drive while intoxicated. Perhaps it should come as no surprise, that over 20,000 DUI arrests were made throughout the state, in 2018 alone. If you have been charged with drinking and driving, it is important to understand the true severity of a DUI conviction. Below we will discuss how a DUI conviction can impact you, and how a skilled criminal defense attorney can help.

Why You Should Fight Against a Conviction

In the state of Illinois, a DUI conviction constitutes a Class A Misdemeanor charge. Along with the mark on your permanent record, comes fines up to $2,500 and potential jail-time. The driver will also face a one-year license revocation period. While some people view a DUI as a common crime that will not impact their life long-term, this assertion could not be further from the truth. In all reality, a conviction of this magnitude can lead to loss of employment, future difficulty securing jobs, and problems securing bank loans or housing. It should also be noted that a DUI conviction can come with significant financial challenges.

When the financial aspects of a DUI conviction are factored in, a DUI conviction can cost a person upwards of $20,000. The costs of a DUI conviction can vary by case, but the vast majority of times the guilty party will be forced to pay for court fees and rehabilitation programs. If a driver hopes to regain their driving privileges after a DUI conviction, they will have to pay for the installation and monitoring costs of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). Even after the revocation period, the driver will still have to pay various fees to apply for reinstatement. After their license has been reinstated, the driver will likely have to pay thousands more in insurance costs.

Fortunately, there are ways to fight against a DUI conviction. Your ability to recount your story and work with your attorney can be paramount in avoiding a conviction. Whether a law enforcement official lacked a proper reason for a traffic stop, or the station failed to follow chemical testing protocol, a skilled attorney will investigate every potential defense strategy in your case.

Contact a Naperville DUI Defense Attorney

At J. Aldrich Law, P.C., we understand the ramifications of a DUI conviction. Because of that, we will do everything in our power to help you avoid a conviction. A DUI conviction can impact you for years to come, and you need a strong and reliable legal professional that you can trust. To schedule a complimentary consultation with a knowledgeable DuPage County criminal defense attorney, call us today at 630-953-3000.

Source:

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