The True Impact of a DUI

 Posted on February 19, 2020 in DUI

Every year, thousands of drivers are arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the state of Illinois. While many offenders will simply plead guilty for a DUI charge, especially their first charge, a DUI conviction can come with serious legal ramifications and potential changes to your lifestyle. If you have been charged with driving under the influence, it is important to contact a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible.

The Ramifications of a Conviction

In the state of Illinois, DUI charges are taken very seriously. A first-time DUI conviction constitutes a Class A misdemeanor charge and can lead to fines as high as $2,500 and even potential jail time. In all reality though, the true impact of a DUI conviction can go far beyond a mark on your criminal record.

Loss of Driving Privileges: First and foremost a DUI conviction will impact your ability to operate a motor vehicle in Illinois. According to the Secretary of State’s Office, a first time DUI conviction will automatically lead to a one-year license revocation period. In other words, the driver’s driving privileges will be revoked for a minimum of one year. It should be noted that drivers under the age of 21 will face a two year revocation period for their first DUI conviction. Drivers are eligible to register for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP), but must pay for the installation and tracking of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID).

Big Costs: When people hear that a DUI conviction only comes with a maximum fine of $2,500, most people are relieved at the relatively inexpensive financial toll. In all reality though, the cost of a DUI can far exceed the fines you will receive with a conviction. Not only will you face increases in your insurance premiums, but also income loss, court costs, license reinstatement, and BAIID payments. In all, a DUI conviction can cost a person upwards of $10,000 in total costs. The sooner you hire a competent attorney, the more money you can save through quick legal proceedings.

The Potential for Further Convictions: While a first-time DUI only comes with a misdemeanor charge, a repeat offender can face significant jail time. For instance, a third DUI conviction is automatically elevated to an Aggravated DUI. If convicted, the offender will face a Class 2 felony charge and loss of driving privileges for ten years. If the driver has a blood alcohol content over .16, they will face a mandatory prison sentence of 90 days. Aggressively fighting your first DUI charge can save you time, money, and stress down the road.

Contact a Naperville DUI Attorney

Contrary to popular belief, a first-time DUI conviction can come with serious consequences. With that in mind, Attorney Patricia Magaña will do everything in her power to develop a compelling defense strategy and avoid a conviction. If you have been charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is time to act. Schedule a free initial consultation with a compassionate Kane County criminal defense attorney, by calling us at 630-448-2001.

Source:

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