LawMachine
Injured? activate the machineChicago DUI Defense Attorney
Being charged with DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Illinois can have serious consequences including license suspension, hefty fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. At LawMachine, our experienced Chicago DUI defense attorney understands the complexities of Illinois DUI law and fights aggressively to protect your rights and your future.
Whether this is your first DUI offense or you're facing aggravated DUI charges, we provide strategic defense representation to minimize the impact on your life. We challenge field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and police procedures to build the strongest possible defense.
What to Do If You're Arrested for DUI
Step 1: Remain Silent
Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions about where you've been, what you've been drinking, or how much you've had to drink.
- Politely decline to answer questions without an attorney present
- Do not admit to drinking or drug use
- Anything you say can and will be used against you in court
- You have the constitutional right to legal representation
Step 2: Understand Field Sobriety Tests
In Illinois, you have the right to refuse field sobriety tests (walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, etc.) without automatic penalties.
- Field sobriety tests are subjective and designed for failure
- Refusal cannot be used against you in court
- Medical conditions, injuries, and nervousness affect performance
- Police officers often misinterpret normal behavior as impairment
Step 3: Know Your Rights Regarding Chemical Tests
Illinois has implied consent laws, meaning refusing a breathalyzer or blood test results in automatic license suspension, but may help your criminal case.
- Breathalyzer refusal: 12-month license suspension (first offense)
- Breathalyzer machines can be inaccurate and improperly calibrated
- Blood tests must follow strict procedures to be admissible
- You have the right to request an independent blood test
Step 4: Request a Hearing Within 90 Days
You have only 90 days from your arrest to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension with the Illinois Secretary of State.
- Missing this deadline results in automatic suspension
- A hearing can prevent or reduce suspension time
- We can challenge the legality of the traffic stop
- We can question whether proper procedures were followed
Step 5: Contact a DUI Defense Attorney Immediately
Time is critical in DUI cases. The sooner you contact an experienced DUI defense lawyer, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
- We investigate the circumstances of your arrest
- We challenge the prosecution's evidence and procedures
- We negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal
- We fight to protect your driving privileges and criminal record
⚠️ Critical Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest
- ❌ Don't talk to police without a lawyer present
- ❌ Don't miss the 90-day deadline to request a license suspension hearing
- ❌ Don't assume you'll automatically lose your license or be convicted
- ❌ Don't plead guilty without consulting an experienced DUI attorney
- ❌ Don't post about your arrest on social media
Types of DUI Cases We Handle
First-Time DUI Offenses
Even first-time DUI charges carry serious penalties. We work to minimize consequences and explore options like court supervision that can keep your record clean.
Aggravated DUI
Felony DUI charges involving accidents, injuries, multiple offenses, or driving with a suspended license require aggressive defense representation.
Drug DUI (DUID)
Driving under the influence of marijuana, prescription medications, or illegal drugs. These cases require specialized knowledge of drug recognition and testing.
Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance)
Illinois has zero tolerance laws for drivers under 21. Any detectable amount of alcohol can result in charges and license suspension.
CDL DUI Defense
Commercial drivers face stricter BAC limits (0.04%) and harsher penalties. We fight to protect your commercial driving privileges and livelihood.
DUI with Accident or Injury
DUI charges involving property damage, bodily injury, or death carry enhanced penalties and require immediate legal intervention.
Illinois DUI Penalties
First DUI Offense (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- Minimum 1-year license suspension
- Possible court supervision (keeps record clean if completed successfully)
- Mandatory alcohol evaluation and treatment
Second DUI Offense (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Mandatory minimum 5 days in jail or 240 hours community service
- Fines up to $2,500
- Minimum 5-year license revocation
- Mandatory alcohol treatment program
- Possible ignition interlock device requirement
Third DUI Offense (Class 2 Felony)
- 3-7 years in prison
- Fines up to $25,000
- Minimum 10-year license revocation
- Permanent criminal record
- Vehicle may be seized and forfeited
How We Defend DUI Cases
Challenge the Traffic Stop
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle. If the stop was illegal, all evidence obtained may be suppressed.
Question Field Sobriety Test Administration
Field sobriety tests must be administered according to standardized procedures. Improper administration can invalidate results.
Challenge Breathalyzer Accuracy
Breathalyzer machines require regular calibration and maintenance. We investigate whether proper procedures were followed and whether the device was functioning correctly.
Examine Blood Test Procedures
Blood tests must follow strict chain of custody and testing protocols. Contamination, improper storage, or procedural errors can render results inadmissible.
Negotiate Reduced Charges
In appropriate cases, we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce DUI charges to reckless driving or other lesser offenses that carry reduced penalties.
Arrested for DUI?
Don't face DUI charges alone. Contact LawMachine immediately for aggressive defense representation.
Why Choose LawMachine?
- ✓ Experienced DUI defense attorney
- ✓ Aggressive courtroom representation
- ✓ Challenge breathalyzer and blood tests
- ✓ Fight to protect your license
- ✓ Free initial consultation
- ✓ Available 24/7 for arrests