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Does a DUI in Illinois go on my criminal record?
Question:
Does a DUI in Illinois go on my criminal record?
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Yes, operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, called DUI, in Illinois will go on your criminal record. In fact, the reason an Illinois DUI goes on your criminal record because it is considered a crime. According to Nolo, regardless of what state you’re arrested in for a DUI, it’s a crime to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher.
Typically, when you’re arrested on your first DUI, it’s treated as a misdemeanor. Usually, a first-time misdemeanor charge doesn’t result in jail time. However, the DUI misdemeanor can become a felony in certain instances. For example, if you injury or kill someone while driving under the influence of alcohol, the charge can become a felony. Another instance where a DUI misdemeanor can become a felony is if you have prior DUI convictions—whether you’ve killed or injured anyone during your latest DUI. For instance, Nolo, a third DUI charge can result in months of jail time.
An Illinois DUI is a complicated matter. Don’t try to defend yourself against the DUI charge—especially a DUI felony charge—alone. Thus, if you’re arrested for an Illinois DUI, seek legal assistance from a defense lawyer. The Illinois lawyer should be one who specializes in DUI cases. The lawyer will review your case and assist you in presenting a defense in court. Also, your defense lawyer can work to negotiate a lesser charges.
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