From the bustling city of Chicago to the vast open farm land the land of Lincoln has something for everyone. Illinois also offers something for DUI offenders – severe punishment. We’re talking administrative license suspension of 3 months, up to $2500 fine, 1 year license revocation, community service, and counseling. That’s just for first time offenders. Those with prior DUI convictions encounter penalties even harsher.
Chemical Testing
When law enforcement suspects a driver of DUI they will ask them to comply with Blood alcohol content (BAC) testing. This entails using a sample of the driver’s breath, urine, or blood to their actual blood alcohol level (BAL). In the state of Illinois a BAL of .08 means the individual is DUI. A BAL of .20 or higher may bring about enhanced penalties.
Field Sobriety Tests (FST)
Illinois law enforcement relies on 3 traditional field sobriety tests. Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) requires the suspect to follow an object while the officer is observing the eye movement. Any deviation or jerking may indicate an elevated BAL. The officer may also ask the driver to walk heel to tow, turn around, and continue. They may also direct the suspect to stand on one leg. The officer is checking for balance and coordination.
Administrative License Suspension
In Illinois 2 cases are brought against DUI suspects. Separate from criminal charges, the driver will have their license suspended immediately for 3 months if found with a BAL of .08 or higher. The suspension is increased to 1 year for repeat offenders. If the driver refuses to test, their license will be automatically suspended 6 months for the first offense and 2 years for the second. You may notice the suspensions are twice as long for refusing to test, generally making it a good move to comply with the tests barring a large incident.
Criminal Charges
Upon DUI conviction your driver’s license will be revoked for a minimum of 1 year. The revocation is 5 years for a second conviction and 10 years for a third. Offenders face fines upwards of $2500 and potential jail time of 364 days. Elevated alcohol levels and repeat offenses may bring about longer jail time.
Zero Tolerance
Drivers under 21 face different penalties. They may be prosecuted with lower blood alcohol levels and be up against stiffer penalties. In fact, if a driver under 21 is convicted 4 times, their license is revoked for life! Contact a DUI Lawyer Today!
DUIlawyers.net has done the work finding qualified lawyers ready to serve you in Illinois. It’s important to hire a lawyer specializing in DUI law who works with cases like yours everyday. It’s time to put them to work for you!