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The 4th of July & a DUI Resulting in Death
posted on 6/25/24
On the 4th of July, you attend a family party. It’s hot, and after lunch around 3 PM, you decide to drive back to your home in Palatine. You had initially called for an Uber, but when the app didn’t respond, you chose to drive yourself, feeling okay despite having been drinking at the party.
On your way home, you collide with another car, resulting in the death of one person. You are subsequently arrested and charged with aggravated DUI.
Understanding what it means to be charged with an aggravated DUI and consulting a Palatine DUI attorney can help you mount a defense. Without the expertise of an experienced attorney, you could face significant time in an Illinois State Prison.

What Is an Aggravated DUI?

While it is not illegal to drink and drive, driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime. This crime is known as “DUI,” which stands for “driving under the influence.”
If there is no death or injury, a DUI can be classified as a misdemeanor instead of a felony. However, even a misdemeanor DUI carries several penalties in Illinois, such as:
  • Imprisonment for up to one year.
  • A fine of up to $2,500.
  • Revocation of driving privileges for at least one year.
Additional penalties may include community service and other sanctions.
An aggravated DUI carries much harsher penalties than a regular DUI. It is a DUI that has been elevated to a felony due to factors like death, serious bodily injury, prior criminal history, or driving without a valid license.
An aggravated DUI, under Illinois law, results in felony charges and the accompanying felony penalties, including prison time. For example, if someone driving under the influence kills a pedestrian, they can be charged with an aggravated DUI. Similarly, driving under the influence without a license can also lead to felony charges.

Penalties for an Aggravated DUI Resulting in Death

If charged with an aggravated DUI resulting in the death of one person, you may face:
  • A prison sentence of up to fourteen years.
  • A fine of up to $25,000.
  • Revocation of driving privileges for at least two years.
Notably, a felony DUI involving the death of one person carries a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in prison. Thus, anyone convicted of an aggravated DUI resulting in death will serve time in prison.
If the aggravated DUI results in the death of two or more people, you could face up to 28 years in prison, along with other penalties.
Given the severe consequences of an aggravated DUI conviction, it is crucial to work with an attorney who will protect your rights throughout the process. Failing to secure legal representation can lead to a conviction, resulting in imprisonment and the loss of everything you have built.

Get Qualified Legal Help

If you need representation for a DUI charge, Glasgow & Olsson is uniquely qualified to assist you. Thomas Glasgow has lectured statewide on DUI practice and law for the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Recognized as an authority in this area of law, he also contributes to the statewide DUI manual. When you need an attorney, experience matters.
Speak with our DUI defense attorneys in Palatine today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.