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DUI Penalties

Our Practice Area
KUCHINSKI LAW GROUP

DUI Penalties

If you have been charged with driving under influence in Illinois, you must act quickly to protect your rights.  DUI is a criminal offense, and you need the services of a lawyer to be on the safe side. Our lawyer, Sergei Kuchinski, helps to understand your DUI penalties in Chicago and protect your rights.

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Punishment for first DUI

If it is your first DUI offense, you are probably asking yourself about the repercussions of the Illinois DUI arrest.  In Illinois, including Chicago, the charges for first-time offenders differ compared to 2ndt ime offenses.  The offenses are classified as Class A misdemeanors and can result in jail time of a maximum of one year or fines up to $2,500.  Other common punishments you can expect include:

  • License suspension for a minimum period of 6 month
  • 100/h community service
  • Alcohol evaluation and treatment
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device for up to one year

Punishment for repeat DUI

When it comes to a repeat DUI, the charges are more severe. Due to the continuing problem, the DUI penalties in Illinois are relatively higher.  You will need the representation of a good lawyer who will guide you through the entire process.  A DUI defense lawyer will help gather enough evidence and even offer legal representation in court. 

For an offense to be considered a 2nd time offense, you must have one prior DUI on your record regardless when it happened.  Some of the punishment you can expect for a repeat DUI include:

  • Installation of an ignition interlock device for one to three years
  • Suspension of your driver's license for minimum of 6 months
  • Alcohol treatment program
  • Up to $2,500 in fines
  • Jail time of a maximum of one year

Penalties for DUI Under 21

The law of Illinois, including Chicago has a policy of zero-tolerance when it comes to individuals below the age of 21 drinking and driving.  Any individual caught drinking and is below the age of 21 will lose their driving privileges.  If the individual refuses to undertake the blood-alcohol test, they will face harsher penalties.  After the initial Illinois DUI arrest, you should ensure that you cooperate with the police.  You have the right to contact your lawyer, who will advise you on the next step. 

Individuals under 21 and convicted of a first-time DUI offense can be subjected to a revocation of their driver's license.  Some of the other penalties include:

  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Fines of $2,500

For the second DUI offense, persons under the age of 21 years can face the following penalties:

  • Revocation of their license

When is DUI driving a felony in Illinois?

DUI is considered either a misdemeanor or a felony.  A first DUI arrest in Chicago, and Illinois, in general, is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.  However, in some circumstances, it can be classified as a felony.  DUI can be considered a felony if you are charged a repeat DUI charge, DUI charge that results in the death of any individual, DUI + no valid license, 3rd DUI, DUI + no insurance.

Chicago DUI fines can be avoided or reduced

In some circumstances, the consequences of a Illinois DUI arrest are severe and can result in jail time or suspension of your driver's license.  However, when you hire our qualified DUI defense attorney, you can acquire adequate legal representation.  Sergei Kuchinski, helps to negotiate lesser charges or the dismissal of the charges.  Ensure you contact our lawyer as soon as you are charged with a DUI offense.

Remember that the faster you contact a DUI attorney, the quicker you get the legal help you require.  You can call or text our lawyer at (312) 765-7365 to get the help you need.  Consider hiring our lawyers to avoid jail time, fight your felony charges, retain your driving privileges, keep a good record, and secure your job. 

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

  • I couldn't be any happier with Sergei Kuchinski. Sergei is nothing short of amazing. He is professional, understanding, and emphatic. He really take your case with extreme care. He goes through every detail and consistently keep you in the loop of every step and know of what to come next, and give you the best advice on what to do. I highly recommend him.

    Vasyl Churilov
  • Highly recommended!  Communicated well and answered all my questions.

    Also had a great outcome!

    Carl
  • Very professional group of individuals, was always able to get in touch with someone to work out whatever problems or questions that I had towards my Court case, I didnt felt as if I was just paying money to someone that didn’t care and that’s a plus for me ,  Thank you Sergei 🙏

    Classic Vbyz Production
  • If you got in troubles, Mr. Kuchinski will take care of your problems. Very professional, great lawyer. Highly recommended!

    Gediminas Grasys
  • Not a lawyer but a miracle worker 10/10

    Simon Sehter

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