09/19/2024
12 minutes of reading
© 2024 Ktenas Law LLC. All Rights Reserved
09/19/2024
12 minutes of reading
When you're facing DUI charges in Chicago, the consequences can be overwhelming. Your future, your career, and your freedom are all on the line. That's where our criminal defense law firm steps in. As a family-owned business, we understand the stress and uncertainty you're experiencing.
Our team of dedicated DUI lawyers is committed to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. With years of experience navigating the complexities of Illinois DUI laws, we offer personalized strong defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.
From the moment you step into our office for a free consultation, you'll feel the difference our caring approach makes. We're not just your lawyers; we're your advocates, your support system, and your guide through this challenging time.
Don't let a DUI charge derail your life – Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation Now
A DUI conviction in Chicago can lead to severe consequences, depending on factors such as the number of offenses and the specifics of the case. Understanding these potential penalties is crucial for anyone facing DUI charges.
Most people have some vague understanding that DUI convictions are costly. Do you know just how expensive? On average, a first-time DUI offender will cost the defendant over $10,000. The few of us who have that sort of money available don't want to spend it on resolving a DUI, and most of us don't even have the money in the first place meaning that a DUI conviction can rapidly turn into a serious debt problem.
The cost of a DUI conviction comes from many different sources. There are usually fines imposed by the court, of course, but a defendant may also have to pay legal fees, DMV fees, drug and alcohol education course fees, and higher insurance premiums.
The financial burden of a criminal DUI charge can extend even further. If you are convicted or plead “guilty” or “no contest” to alcohol or marijuana DUI, you may be throwing significant roadblocks into your professional career.
You may be required to report the conviction to your current employer and any professional organization you're a part of. The conviction may make it more difficult or impossible for you to secure professional certifications (like a commercial driver's license) in the future. You may even have to report the conviction whenever you apply for future jobs.
A DUI conviction typically results in a driver’s license suspension. For a first offense, the suspension period can be up to one year. For subsequent offenses, the suspension can be longer, and in some cases, a driver's license may be revoked indefinitely.
You will have to attend administrative hearings and present your case to a hearing officer to have your license reinstated.
After getting your license back, you may still have to use an alcohol ignition interlock device to drive. This chemical testing device will require you to test yourself for alcohol consumption or the influence of drugs before starting the vehicle.
The possibility of jail time varies based on the offense's severity. First-time offenders might face up to one year in jail. Repeat offenders or those charged with aggravated driving could face longer sentences. Aggravating factors include high BAC levels or causing bodily harm and will frequently elevate the charge from a misdemeanor to a felony charge.
Instead of, or in addition to, jail time, you may be sentenced to probation. Probation often requires regular check-ins with a probation officer, drug or alcohol counseling, and community service.
As part of a DUI conviction, you may be required to attend alcohol education classes or complete a treatment program. These alcohol programs aim to address substance abuse issues and reduce the risk of reoffending.
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Chicago can be severe and affect various aspects of your life. Understanding these consequences can help you better prepare for your case and work with an attorney.
Any respectable DUI attorney could charge a minimum of $3,500 to $6,000 for a DUI. Some attorneys advertise DUI cases for as low as $500-$1500 but what they aren't telling you is that they plan on just pleading guilty right away.
The attorneys at Ktenas Law are all about transparency, we provide high-quality DUI representation at a fair price. Our DUI pricing starts as low as $3,500 and we provide flexible payment plans for our clients!
At Ktenas Law, we know that after a DUI arrest, the average person is very stressed out about the court process and what to expect. That is why we offer free confidential consultations. We want to make sure that you understand everything about what to expect from your case.
Related: How to beat your DUI?
Driving under the influence (DUI) in Chicago is a serious criminal charge with strict laws and significant consequences. In Illinois, a DUI criminal offense occurs when a driver operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if drugs impair them. However, there are additional regulations for certain groups, such as commercial drivers and those under 21.
DUI laws in Chicago are strict and vary depending on the driver’s age and type of vehicle. If you're a commercial driver, a minor, or an adult with a standard license, know these rules. They can help you navigate the legal system and seek advice if facing DUI charges.
A defense lawyer plays a critical role in helping individuals charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Their primary job is to provide legal representation and help navigate the complexities of the DUI legal system. From the moment you’re charged, a DUI lawyer works to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome for your case.
Key Responsibilities:
A Chicago DUI lawyer is essential in navigating the legal system and working towards a favorable outcome. Their experience helps ensure your case is handled effectively, from the initial charges to the final verdict.
If you’re dealing with a drunk driving charge in Chicago, you might be feeling pretty nervous about what’s going to happen next. Understanding the DUI court process can help ease some of that worry. The good news is that with the right help, you have a chance to challenge the charges against you.
In court, the prosecutor has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which means there’s a lot of room to build a defense. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Want to learn more about what happens next? Keep reading to find out all the details about the DUI process in Illinois and how it could affect you.
When facing DUI charges, a strong defense is crucial. It can challenge the evidence and reduce the penalties. Here are some common defense strategies used in DUI cases:
One common defense is to argue that the initial traffic stop was unlawful. If the police lacked a valid reason to stop your vehicle, any evidence found later might be inadmissible in court.
Field sobriety tests are not always accurate. An experienced lawyer may challenge these tests. They may argue they were done improperly. They may also argue that poor weather or medical issues affected your performance.
Breathalyzer machines can sometimes give inaccurate readings. Your lawyer might check the machine's maintenance records and its calibration by the police officer. Errors in administration or malfunction can lead to questioning the results.
Chemical testing does not always measure your blood alcohol content accurately. Blood tests of blood alcohol levels must be handled and analyzed according to strict procedures. Your defense attorney may scrutinize the handling of your blood sample and the procedures used by the lab to ensure that no errors occur.
Related: Force blood draw
Certain medical conditions can mimic the signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech or unsteady movements. If a medical condition played a role in your appearance or behavior during the stop, it might be used as part of your defense.
Each DUI case is unique, and a tailored defense strategy is essential. Understanding these common defenses can help you work with your attorney to develop a strong case and seek the best possible outcome.
In Illinois, a drunk driving conviction stays on your driving record permanently. Unlike some other offenses, a DUI cannot be expunged or sealed, meaning it will remain visible to law enforcement, employers, and others who check your record.
Impact of a DUI on Your Record:
A criminal conviction in Illinois is a serious matter with long-lasting consequences. A DUI charge stays on your record forever. So, it's vital to get legal advice from an experienced attorney. They can help you minimize the charge's impact and explore any defenses.
If you've been arrested for a DUI, you might be wondering, "Will my license be suspended because of this?" It's a big concern, especially for drunk drivers in places like DuPage County.
The truth is, your license could be at risk of suspension depending on the circumstances of your arrest. The good news is that there are ways to fight it and keep your record clean. It’s important to understand what’s at stake and what you can do to try and prevent a suspension.
There are several ways to get your license back if you have lost your license because you were arrested for DUI. The first way is to petition the court to have a hearing. This hearing is commonly referred to as a petition to rescind the statutory summary suspension and requires an evidentiary hearing in front of a judge. If your license is revoked you must have a hearing with the secretary of state in order to get your license back.
In Illinois, a police officer cannot force you to take field sobriety tests.
It is your right to refuse to take any tests that you do not wish to accept. A refusal of tests, however, can still lead to your arrest and to your license being suspended.
In Illinois, a police officer cannot force you to take a breathalyzer test. It is your right to refuse to take any tests that you do not wish to accept. A refusal of tests, however, can still lead to your arrest and to your license being suspended.
In Illinois, police officers are not required to video and/or audio record your investigation. Some police departments have video and audio recording devices. If however, your arrest is being recorded, the police officers and prosecution are required to give you a copy of the recording.
When facing DUI charges in Cook County, experience matters. Ktenas Law brings years of successful DUI defense to your case. We understand local laws, court procedures, and effective defense strategies. Don't settle for less when your future is at stake – choose the experience and aggressive representation of our criminal defense lawyers.
Don’t leave your future to chance—contact us today at 312-800-1626 to schedule an initial free consultation and start defending your rights.
