Published on April 27th, 2022 | by Sunit Nandi

Why Do You Need a DUI Attorney in Chicago?

According to Chicago Police data, 3,795 people were arrested in Chicago last year for driving under drugs or alcohol. If you are one of the unlucky few who find themselves in this situation, you may wonder if it is worth hiring a DUI attorney.

The answer is complex and based on several factors, but in general, it is always a good idea to at least consult with an experienced DUI attorney Chicago. It is important to remember that drinking under the influence is a serious offense with potentially life-changing consequences.

Its conviction can result in losing your driver’s license, high fines, and even jail time. If you are under any charges, you need an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights.

What is a DUI?

In Illinois, a person’s charge can be driving under the influence of alcohol if caught driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher.

In Illinois, it is a crime resulting in hefty fines and even imprisonment. About one-third of all drinking driving arrests in Illinois is in Chicago.

DUI Laws in Illinois, Fines, and Consequences

If you are arrested while driving with a BAC of .08 or higher, you will be charged with a DUI. As a first-time offender, you can expect to face a fine of up to $500 and the loss of your driver’s license for at least one year.

A second offense is a felony in Illinois and carries a mandatory minimum of two days in jail. The fine for a second is up to $2,500, and you will lose your driver’s license for at least five years.

In Illinois, a third conviction is considered a felony and comes with a ten-day jail sentence as the mandatory minimum. It incurs a fine of up to $25,000 and leads to losing your license for at least ten years.

The Importance of a DUI Attorney in Chicago

If you face a drinking and driving charge in Chicago, you need an experienced official who can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights. Here are some of the ways an attorney can help you:

1. Navigate the complex court process

Chicago’s court system is notoriously complex, and a DUI charge can be overwhelming. An attorney specializing in the field can help you navigate the court process and ensure that your rights are protected.

Many of them also have relationships with prosecutors and judges, which can help get a favorable outcome for your case.

2. Investigate the charges against you

Many times, the charges against a person are not accurate. In such cases, an attorney looks into the details of your case so that they can find errors. These errors can lead to a dismissal of your charges.

The average DUI lawyer fee ranges between $1,500 and $3,000. These attorneys typically charge less for first-time misdemeanor convictions and more for felony DUI charges.

3. Reduce the penalties you face

In some cases, an attorney can help reduce the penalties you face. For example, an attorney may be able to get a first-time offender charged with a misdemeanor instead of a felony.

They can also negotiate with prosecutors to get a reduced sentence. In some cases, they may be able to get the charges against you dropped entirely.

4. Protect your rights

The time after your arrest can be confusing and scary. It is crucial to have a law specialist on your side who can protect your rights. They can ensure that you are not taken advantage of by the court system.

They can also help you understand the charges against you and what to expect in court.

5. Appeal a conviction

Do you have any drunk driving convictions on your record? You might be able to have it removed. Most of the time, you can’t clear your history completely. But with the help of an attorney, you might be able to get a DUI removed from your record or have it reduced to a lesser charge.

You might be able to get it removed from your record if:

The arresting officer didn’t have probable cause to stop you.
The police didn’t Mirandize you.
The breathalyzer or blood test was inaccurate.

If any of these things transpire, you might be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed. They can assist you in navigating the legal system and ensuring the best possible outcome. The sooner you get representation, the better your chances of getting a favorable outcome in court. Make sure the attorney has good knowledge about the local laws.

Tags: attorney, Chicago, DUI

About the Author

Sunit Nandi I'm the leader of Techno FAQ. Also an engineering college student with immense interest in science and technology. Other interests include literature, coin collecting, gardening and photography. Always wish to live life like there's no tomorrow.