Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Chicago DUI Charges and Why the Lawyer You Choose Matters
Chicago is home to more than two million people, and its streets and highways are heavily patrolled by law enforcement looking for impaired drivers. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, driving under the influence includes alcohol, prescription drugs, cannabis, or intoxicating substances of any kind. The charge can be either a Class A misdemeanor or, under certain circumstances, a felony.
For many people, their first DUI arrest is their first exposure to the criminal justice system. A misdemeanor DUI may carry up to a year in jail, thousands in fines, and a mandatory license suspension. If aggravating factors exist — like a repeat offense, a crash with injuries, or a minor in the car — the charge can rise to a felony, with the possibility of years in prison and permanent license revocation.
