Just imagine the following: it is time for the ultra-competitive third round of the March Madness tournament. Making it to the Sweet 16 is a big deal for the teams that get this far. This year, watching the games at this point of the tournament is even more exciting for you because your team made it to the Sweet 16.
You meet up with your friends at a local bar to watch the event unfold. When the games are over, the outcome you wanted didn’t come to fruition, and your team will not be advancing. Still, it was close, and you had an enjoyable time with some of your favorite people. You proceed to say “Goodbye” to all of your friends before getting into your car to drive back home.
You are just ten minutes away from your home in Schaumburg when a police car forces you to pull over. And, within the moments that follow stopping for this police car, you are charged with a DUI.
Going over the consequences of a DUI if something like the above occurs and speaking with an experienced Schaumburg DUI defense attorney will help you obtain the legal outcome you deserve.
What Happens If You Get A DUI?
If you are convicted of a DUI in Illinois, the following can result:
- You may be forced to pay a fine of no more than $2,500.
- You may be ordered to perform 100 hours of service for the community.
- You may be forced to undergo counseling for substance abuse.
- You may be ordered to spend no more than one year in jail.
- You will have your license revoked for a period of at least one year.
Regarding the latter consequence, this means that if you rely on a car to get around, you will be unable to operate this vehicle. And, if you do drive when you are not allowed to, you could face a series of further consequences.
What Happens If You Get A Second DUI?
A second DUI can lead to the following penalties:
- You may be forced to spend at least up to 365 days in jail.
- You may be ordered to perform 240 hours of community service.
- You may be forced to pay a fine of no more than $2,500.
- You may be ordered to spend several years in prison.
- You will have your license revoked for a period of at least five years.
Regarding the first point, the standard sentence for a second DUI is spending at least five days in jail. This can be converted into 240 hours of community service if you work with an attorney who knows how to help you.
Outside of that point, you will have your license revoked for five years if you get a second DUI. You will not be able to drive during this period, which will make it harder for you to live the life you are accustomed to.
What Happens If You Get A Third DUI?
In the event that you get a third DUI, you can expect the following penalties:
- You may be forced to spend at least ten days in jail.
- You may be ordered to perform 480 hours of community service.
- You may be ordered to pay a fine of no more than $25,000.
- You may be ordered to spend up to seven years in prison.
- You will have your license revoked for a period of at least ten years.
Given the severity of a third DUI, it is best to avoid one. And, if you are charged with a third DUI, you must work with an attorney who can help you.
Get Qualified Legal Help Today
If you need representation for a DUI charge, Glasgow & Olsson is uniquely qualified to help you.
Thomas Glasgow is recognized as an authority in DUI law. He has lectured statewide on DUI practice and law for the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education, writes for the statewide DUI manual, and is regularly featured on popular radio and news outlets, including ABC, CNN, NBC, CBS, and Fox News.
When you need an attorney, experience matters.
Speak with our DUI defense attorneys in Chicago today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.