Aggressive Representation For Multiple DUI Charges
Is this not your first arrest for driving under the influence? You may have already been through the DUI process, but you still need to ensure that you work with an attorney who is experienced and well-prepared to assist you in achieving a positive outcome for your criminal charges.
Repeat DUI offenders face increased penalties and the risk of extended license suspensions if found guilty of driving under the influence. If this is not your first DUI arrest, you need to work with PGO Law Firm in New Lenox to ensure that you receive the representation that you deserve.
What To Do After A Second DUI Arrest
Second-time DUI offenders who are found guilty of operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol can see a large increase in the penalties that they are facing. If convicted, you could face fines of up to $25,000 for aggravated felonies, and you may risk having your charges elevated or be charged with additional offenses.
If prosecuted, you may face:
- Up to one year in jail, or three years if there was a child under the age of 16 in your car
- License suspension of a minimum of five years
- Mandatory community service for at least 25 days
If you are facing a second DUI offense and are intent on contesting the charge, opting for a jury trial could significantly enhance your chances of a favorable outcome. In a jury trial, you have the opportunity to sway at least one out of twelve jurors to doubt your guilt. Alternatively, you could choose a bench trial, where the judge alone reviews the evidence and determines your fate.
However, convincing a judge may prove more challenging, as judges are often less receptive to questioning the arresting officer’s credibility, especially if the officer’s testimony is supported by field sobriety test results. With a jury, the likelihood of finding someone who may question the officer’s account or the validity of the tests is higher, which could work to your advantage in proving your innocence.
A Third DUI Carries Harsh Penalties
If this is your third DUI offense, the charges can be extremely harsh.
Convicted individuals can:
- Lose their licenses for at least 10 years
- Be required to spend 25 days performing community service
- Face fines of $25,000 if you are convicted of three or more DUI offenses
- Class 3 Felony – Possible prison sentence of three to seven years
DUI Convictions And Permanent Records
In most states, there is generally a five to 10-year “lookback period” used to show how long a DUI conviction will stay on a person’s driving record. In Illinois, however, there is no lookback period for a DUI conviction, meaning once you are convicted of a DUI, it permanently remains on your driving record.
Even a single DUI conviction, no matter how far back, can cause lifelong problems and put you at risk for severe punishments for any DUI convictions in the future. It is vital that you work with an experienced attorney right away whether you face your first, second or fourth DUI.
Protect Your Future With Experienced Legal Representation
Illinois punishes all DUIs severely. Whether you face your first DUI or your fourth, you can benefit from the experienced legal guidance I can provide you at PGO Law Firm.
To learn more about how I can help protect you, call me at 630-912-5051 or fill out an online contact form to schedule a free consultation.