Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
The Immediate and Long-Term Fallout of a DUI Arrest in Illinois
A DUI arrest in Chicago can unravel a person’s reputation, employment status, and professional credentials in a matter of days. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, it is unlawful to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or intoxicating compounds. While some assume a DUI is a routine traffic offense, Illinois law classifies it as a criminal charge—and the difference is life-altering.
A first-offense DUI in Illinois is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor, which carries penalties of up to 364 days in jail, fines up to $2,500, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol evaluation and treatment. However, under 625 ILCS 5/11-501(d), aggravating factors—such as prior convictions, a child passenger, or causing serious injury—can escalate the charge to a felony (Aggravated DUI) punishable by multiple years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
