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.