What is the punishment for a DUI in Illinois?

Illinois DUI is a serious, criminal act. It will be on your criminal record for some time. It is possible to fight these charges by getting them downgraded or even proving that you are not guilty. The key is to hire an attorney to help you through the process. If you are facing DUI in Illinois, note that you do have options.

Understanding the Penalties

A variety of DUI penalties are in place in the state of Illinois that you must keep in mind. For first time offender, the following penalties could occur:

• Up to one year in jail, an additional six months added if a child under 16 is in the vehicle
• Fines up to $2500, plus an additional $500 if BAC is above .16 and an additional $1000 fine if there is a minor under 16 in the vehicle.
• You likely will lose your license for one year at least
• You may have to have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.
• You may have to conduct community service.

In the case of a second offense, the punishments and penalties increase. Here, you are facing a mandatory five days in jail or 240 hours of community service. The fines increase, especially if there is a minor in the vehicle, which becomes a felony aggravated DUI with fines up to $25,000. You are likely to use your license for at least five years.

Due to the harshness of the penalties associated with DUI, Illinois residents should get the help of an attorney to fight the charges.