Even though you are not a criminal, getting a DUI in Illinois can lead to the justice system treating you like one.
Speaking with a Schaumburg DUI defense attorney at Glasgow & Olsson can help you understand the process and defend yourself in the best possible way.
If You Are Hit With A DUI On Christmas, What Will Happen To You?
If you get a DUI on Christmas, there are three things that could happen to you.
- You could be charged with a crime in court.
- You could have your driver’s license suspended.
- You could be sentenced to jail.
None of these steps are very appealing. But they are important, as going through them will allow you to work with an attorney and demonstrate your innocence.
Being Charged With A Crime In Court
To begin the DUI process, you will be charged with a crime in court. And this crime is, of course, driving while under the influence.
Soon after you are charged, you will receive a date that clarifies your first appearance in court.
Right after you show up to your first appearance in court, you will be able to enter a plea of either “Guilty” or “Not Guilty.”
If you work with an attorney, You can take steps to defend yourself from these charges. Without hiring an attorney familiar with DUI law, you will not be in a position to defend yourself from some of the most damaging charges in the criminal justice system.
Receiving A Court Date For Your Trial
Sometimes, the state will not offer an agreeable disposition to the case, which will, instead, force you to go to trial. And if your case goes to trial, then it will be one of the following:
- A jury trial.
- A bench trial.
No matter the trial you receive, you and your attorney can present evidence and testimony demonstrating that you are not guilty.
After your trial ends, you will be given a “Not Guilty” or “Guilty” verdict.
Being Sentenced
A “Guilty” verdict will lead to a sentence, and in addition to jail, your driver’s license could be suspended or even revoked. The exact conditions of this sentence are dependent on the facts of your case. But, even so, they may include:
- A license suspension or revocation.
- A fine of varying size.
- Possible jail or prison time.
None of the conditions within a DUI sentence are pleasant. But, you can get the sentence you deserve if you work directly with an attorney and construct an effective defense. And, if you do receive a sentence that is less-than-satisfactory, you can work with that attorney to vacate or reduce the sentence that you have received.
Get Qualified Legal Help
You are not a criminal, and you do not deserve to be treated like one. Even so, though, the legal system will treat you like one if you have been hit with a DUI.
If you need representation for a DUI charge in Cook County, then Glasgow & Olsson is here to help you.
When you need an attorney, experience matters.
Contact one of our Illinois DUI defense attorneys today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.