Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Chicago, Illinois DUI Charges and Why Consultations Matter
Chicago is one of the busiest cities in the country, with drivers filling Lake Shore Drive, the Kennedy Expressway, and countless neighborhood streets from Rogers Park to Bronzeville. With such traffic volume, DUI enforcement is a constant priority. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, Illinois law prohibits driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or intoxicating substances.
Illinois classifies DUI offenses as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on circumstances. A first or second DUI without aggravating factors is a Class A misdemeanor, which can mean up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $2,500. A third offense or one involving injury, death, or driving with a revoked license elevates the charge to aggravated DUI, a felony with far harsher penalties, including multi-year prison terms.
