Being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) can drastically change your life. You not only have to deal with a permanent criminal charge on your record and the mandatory consequences of it, but you also have to find a way to handle the financial burden of your case. Fines, attorney fees, license fees, and other costs can add up quickly. The harsh costs and punishments of a DUI charge in Illinois are designed to motivate drivers to make safe decisions.

Find out more about the true cost of an Illinois DUI below.

DUI Laws In Illinois

Because alcohol can greatly impair the basic judgment and reaction time of a driver, it is illegal to drive when intoxicated to a certain extent. Illinois follows the same general laws as most other states by establishing a legal blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08%. If a driver is pulled over and is found to have a BAC of 0.08% or over, they can be arrested on the spot for driving while intoxicated. If someone is pulled over for negligent or reckless driving and has a BAC under 0.08% but over 0.00%, they can still be arrested for drunk driving because they presented danger to themselves and others.

The consequences an individual faces after being convicted of a DUI in Illinois will change depending on how serious their case was and if they have prior convictions. For a first-time misdemeanor DUI, the defendant may receive up to a year in jail as well as other punishments like community service, loss of their license, and probation. If someone is convicted of a felony DUI or a charge other than their first, the consequences become more severe. Felony DUIs can result in jail sentences of anywhere from one to 30 years in addition to massive fines.

The Total Financial Cost Of A DUI

Of course, the exact cost of a DUI conviction will depend on the unique details of each defendant’s case. However, you can help yourself estimate the total cost of your situation by considering the different financial aspects of your charge. The general financial responsibilities of someone convicted of a DUI in Illinois can include:

• Mandatory fines. $500 to $25,000

• Towing and impound fees. $200 to $1,000

• Court processing fees. $100 to $1,000

• Court-mandated treatment or rehabilitation. $1,000 to $10,000

• Increased car insurance. $100 to $400 increase from your current premium

• Driver’s license reinstatement fees. $50 to $500

• Ignition interlock device (IID) installation: Around $100 per month

Additionally, you also must consider:

• Attorney fees. Your lawyer’s fees are dependent on the attorney you work with, the services you use, and how long you work together.

• Restitution payments. If property damage or injury to another individual was involved, you may be required to cover the costs they had to deal with. This is dependent on your case.

For first-time offenders convicted of a misdemeanor DUI, you will most likely receive the lightest forms of punishment. However, this can still result in you having to pay around $10,000 or more to cover the general aspects of your conviction. Individuals facing felony DUIs can expect a fine of $25,000 in addition to the other financial costs listed above.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Punishment for a Third DUI Charge in Illinois?

A: If you are charged with a third DUI offense in Illinois, the consequences increase greatly from the first and second charge. This is because any charge from your third DUI and on is classified as a felony. A third DUI conviction can result in anywhere from three to seven years in jail, possible imprisonment, probation after your discharge, fines, community service, and more.

Q: How Long Does a Drunk Driving Charge Stay on Your Record in Illinois?

A: Illinois has no legislation that establishes a time limit for a DUI charge on your record. This simply means that there is no length of time in which the charge will be “erased.” Unless your case is fully dismissed or you are found to be not guilty of the offense, a DUI will remain on your record for life. You cannot expunge a DUI charge in Illinois.

Q: What Is an Aggravated DUI in Illinois?

A: An aggravated DUI is another term used for felony DUIs in Illinois. Aggravated DUIs are the most serious form of DUI charges that an individual can receive. Individuals convicted of an aggravated DUI can face up to almost 30 years in prison, fines of $25,000, loss of all driving privileges, and more. Aggravated DUIs that involve injuries can result in even harsher penalties, including the possibility of the defendant paying restitution.

Q: Do You Need a Defense Lawyer for a DUI Case?

A: Having a  Grayslake, IL DUI defense lawyer to represent you during a drunk driving case is a necessity. As the defendant, you face a great deal of penalties if you are convicted. Working with a qualified defense lawyer who is familiar with criminal law can help you to develop a defense that properly represents your rights and your story. If you have been charged with any form of a DUI in Illinois, seek help from an experienced legal team as soon as you are able

Q: What Is a DUI Involving the Transportation of a Minor?

A: Any individual who is arrested for a DUI while there is a young child in the car will be charged with child endangerment. In Illinois, it is considered child endangerment to drive drunk with a child below the age of 16 in your car. If you are charged with a DUI while transporting a minor or the DUI results in their injury, you can face drastic consequences.

Jerald Novak: Your Illinois DUI Attorney

With more than three decades of experience practicing law, attorney Jerald Novak has aided a collection of individuals through varying legal obstacles. Our firm is dedicated to representing those dealing with DUIs in Illinois. We work to provide resources, representation, and support for our clients and are devoted to finding a solution for your case. If you are searching for a DUI attorney you can trust to protect your rights, contact us today to discuss your needs.

By Jerald Novak of Chicago, IL

Jerald Novak Law Firm, provides a Free initial consultation at our DUI & Criminal Defense firm. Call (847) 850-0267 to learn how our DUI & Criminal Defense attorney Jerald Novak, can help you! Call now!