Penalties for a DUI Charge in Illinois

Zealous DUI Defense for Clients in Arlington Heights, IL

The penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol vary greatly in Illinois DUI law. At Cosley Law Office, we help clients understand the consequences of those penalties, should they decide to fight their DUI charges. The following is a brief list of terms and explanations our law firm discusses with clients in greater detail:

Statutory Summary Suspension

In Illinois, the process of suspending your driver's license, after you've been arrested for DUI, is called Statutory Summary Suspension. License suspension is an administrative action taken by the Illinois Secretary of State. Once you are arrested for DUI, your license will automatically be suspended on the 46th day after your arrest, for 180 days. This is not the same as conviction, nor does license suspension have anything to do with criminal prosecution. It is a separate action.
You have a limited amount of time to hire an attorney to help prevent license suspension. Donald J. Cosley has been able to help clients avoid license suspension, and he can effectively fight for your right to drive. Call us at 847-253-3100 to learn more today.

Illinois DUI Penalties Increased for Refusing Testing

If you are arrested for a DUI in Illinois, you do not have to submit to a blood, urine, or breath test. However, the consequences for refusing to test your blood alcohol content (BAC) levels will be greater. For the first DUI offense refusal, you risk losing your driving privileges up to one year; a second DUI offense refusal could mean the loss of your driver's license for three years.

Whatever decision you make, our law firm will provide strong, supportive, aggressive defense to ensure your rights are protected under the law.

Illinois DUI Penalty Convictions

It is in your best interest to hire an attorney who will help you fight against DUI conviction. Depending on whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, you could be looking at a maximum $2,500 fine, or a $25,000 dollar fine.

Our law firm works vigorously around the clock to help our clients avoid conviction for DUI.

Contact Our Arlington Heights, IL DUI Defense Attorney

Recent changes to the law in Illinois mean that, even if you have already received a statutory summary suspension, you may be able to get back on the road sooner than ever before. Our experienced team can help you get a breath-alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) installed in your vehicle so that you can legally drive during your suspension. For the first time, the BAIID program is also available for repeat offenders as well, and there is no "hard-time" waiting period. Contact our Arlington Heights, Illinois DUI defense lawyer or call us at 847-253-3100 today. We offer free initial consultations.