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Drunk Driving Tickets in Illinois: What to Expect, and Why to Always Have a Chicago Traffic Law Attorney on Your Side

Introduction

Driving while under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other drugs is one of the most dangerous acts that a person can commit. It is not only dangerous to him / herself, but is very dangerous to the surrounding public and also to property (whether it be private or public). Therefore, it makes sense that laws regarding driving under the influence are particularly harsh. In Illinois, if you get convicted of a DUI, your driving privileges will be revoked. You will be able to reapply for a driver’s license after some time, however, there are certain steps that you must take before the public regulators deem you safe to be back on the road. These may include; paying a reinstatement fee, undergoing an alcohol or drug evaluation, completing a remedial program, demonstrating to an officer that the publics’ safety will not be in jeopardy if you are reinstated to drive.

The difference between a first-time offender and a multiple-time offender

It is important to note that the law treats a first-time offender of a driving under the influence charge with more leniency than someone who has been convicted of such an offence previously. This is seen by the fact that a first-time offender may be allowed to drive, via a Monitoring Device Driving Permit, if they install and appropriately use a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). This device essentially locks the vehicle’s ignition until the driver blows into a breathalyzer, and the ignition will unlock if the alcohol level of the person is lower than a certain amount (basically zero).

Now if an offender has two or three DUI convictions, or two statutory summary suspensions within the last ten years, they may be required to obtain a Restricted Driving Permit. This permit allows a person to drive on a strictly restricted basis, and only in a vehicle that has a BAIID installed. In contrast to a first-time offender, whose BAIID will eventually be removed, a multi-offence driver will never have the device removed from their vehicle.

It is also important to note that penalties for driving under the influence will vary depending on the circumstances of the incident. If a first-time offender seriously injures, or kills another person while under the influence, there will almost inevitably be a criminal trial. On the other hand, if a multiple-time offender was only mildly over the limit, their penalties may be relaxed to an extent, while still complying with the law.

Why to always have a Chicago traffic law attorney on your side

As attorneys, we’re well versed in DUI matters that occur in the Cook, DuPage and Lake Counties, and we have a deep understanding for the life changing events that can occur with this kind of conviction. If you seriously want to fight your charges, and take control of the narrative, you will need an experienced traffic lawyer to help you through the litigation process.


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