Chicago, IL DUI Defense Lawyer

Dedicated Attorney Helping People Arrested for Drunk Driving in Chicago, Illinois

When you are arrested for drunk driving, you will face immediate consequences, and if you are convicted of driving under the influence, you are likely to experience long-lasting penalties. High fines will usually apply in these cases, and you could be sentenced to jail time. You may also need to deal with the suspension of your driver's license, increased insurance premiums, and a permanent mark on your record. Whether this is your first DUI or not, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to ensure that you can protect your rights and your future.

At Miranda Law Office, LTD, we provide skilled legal representation for clients facing DUI charges in Chicago. Attorney Miguel Miranda understands how DUI cases are handled by law enforcement and prosecutors, and he can help you take steps to defend against a conviction and resolve your case while minimizing the effects on your life.

DUI Laws in Illinois

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other intoxicating substances. A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher can serve as proof of intoxication. DUI charges may also apply in situations where drivers have used marijuana or controlled substances. A combination of substances such as prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and alcohol, marijuana, or drugs may lead to intoxication, even if a person is not over the legal BAC limit.

Illinois' implied consent law states that drivers give consent to be tested for intoxication if they operate a vehicle on the state's roads. Under this law, drivers who are arrested for DUI are required to submit to chemical testing of their breath, blood, or urine. These tests may be used as evidence in a DUI case. Refusing to take a chemical test after being arrested will result in an automatic driver's license suspension.

First-Time DUI

A first DUI offense in Illinois will usually result in Class A misdemeanor charges. A conviction may result in a sentence of 12 months in jail or less. Fines of up to $2,500 may also apply, although additional court costs and related charges can make the costs of a DUI conviction much higher. A conviction will also result in the revocation of a person's driver's license for one year.

For many first-time offenders, alternative sentencing options such as court supervision may be available to help avoid a conviction and a permanent criminal record. Miranda Law Office, LTD works to ensure that our clients can avoid being convicted of DUI whenever possible while helping them regain their driving privileges.

Multiple DUI

After a first DUI conviction, any additional DUI convictions will lead to more serious penalties. Longer periods of license suspension or revocation will apply, and a person may be required to serve mandatory jail time or community service. The fines will be higher, and it may be more difficult to get a driver's license reinstated. Our attorney works with people who have previous DUI convictions to address charges of drunk driving and defend against the harsh penalties that come with multiple DUI convictions.

Aggravated DUI

While most first-time or second-time DUI cases will result in misdemeanor charges, there are some cases where people may be charged with felonies. Aggravated DUI cases will carry much more serious penalties, including prison sentences of one year or more and up to $25,000 in fines. Some of the aggravating circumstances that can lead to felony DUI charges include:

• A third or subsequent DUI offense
• Causing an accident that results in serious injury or death
• Driving under the influence with a suspended or revoked license
• DUI while transporting a child under age 16

Our lawyer works to defend clients against felony charges, helping to resolve these cases successfully while avoiding convictions or receiving reduced charges and penalties.

Underage DUI

Illinois has a zero tolerance law that applies to drivers who are under the age of 21. A minor who has any measurable amount of alcohol in their system can face underage DUI charges. Depending on a person's age and their BAC when they were driving, the same penalties may apply for adult drivers who are charged with DUI. However, at minimum, underage drivers will face the loss of their driver's licenses and significant fines. Our lawyer works with minors and their families to address charges of underage drinking and driving and help them avoid penalties that could affect them in their adult lives.

Contact Our Chicago, IL DUI Defense Attorney

When you have been accused of drunk driving, you need an attorney who understands the law and who will fight to protect your rights and your driving privileges. Miranda Law Office, LTD will work with you to resolve your DUI case while minimizing the ways your driver's license and your life may be affected. For English-language or Spanish-language legal services, contact our Chicago DUI lawyer at 773-588-3822 and set up a consultation at our firm.