Everyone knows that driving under the influence is illegal. However, many do not think about the consequences until they face a DUI charge. If you have recently been arrested for a DUI in Belleville, Illinois, and it’s your first offense, you likely have several questions about what’s to come. You might assume you won’t face serious consequences as a first-time offender, but this is not always the case. DUIs come with harsh penalties that can impact you socially and professionally.
Below we cover Illinois DUI laws, penalties for first-time offenders, lookback periods for Illinois DUIs, and information about license suspensions and license reinstatements after a first offense DUI in Belleville, Illinois.
Under Illinois laws, several types of actions fall under the category of driving under the influence. If you have been charged with your first DUI in Illinois, law enforcement had reason to believe one of the following situations apply to you:
The myth that first-time DUI offenders get off easy stems from the idea the minimum penalties are less than for repeat offenders. However, first offense DUI penalties can be harsh, especially if someone receives the maximum sentencing and fine. The first DUI offense is a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois that carries jail time of up to a year and a fine that ranges from $500 to $2,500. Other consequences you could face if you’ve been charged with a DUI for the first time in Illinois include:
DUI charges in Illinois can have aggravating factors that increase penalties and fines for first-time DUI convictions:
Illinois takes drunk and drugged driving seriously. In some states, a DUI falls off your record after a period of time, but a DUI conviction stays with you for life in Illinois. Many people request to have their criminal record sealed after a conviction, but a DUI conviction cannot be sealed in Illinois. Additionally, the state will not expunge the record of those convicted of a DUI, even after a first offense. It is important to note even if the DUI charge resulted in supervision, and not a conviction, the DUI charge still cannot be sealed or expunged in Illinois.
After a first-time DUI conviction in Belleville or throughout Illinois, offenders face a one-year suspension of their driver’s license. Fortunately, you can apply for a restricted driving permit (RDP) for important things. An RDP allows drivers to go to doctors’ appointments, school, work, and substance treatment. First-time offenders who get their license suspended must install an ignition interlock device (IID) or breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) as a condition of the temporary permit.
The process of getting your driving privileges reinstated after a first-time DUI has several requirements, including:
Illinois DUI convictions come with serious consequences, some of which stay with you forever. Additionally, the financial aftermath of a DUI conviction can be thousands of dollars, negatively impacting your life and putting you in debt for some time. It’s in your best interest to contact an experienced Illinois DUI lawyer who can review your case and help you find a way to avoid a conviction. An attorney can review police reports, witness statements, Illinois law, and other relevant documents to find ways to challenge your charges.
Choosing a DUI lawyer to fight for your rights is an important decision and can have a lasting impact on your life. The Law Office of Jason B Going is home to an experienced and proven DUI defense team who will give you the best chance at a favorable outcome in your case.
If you have been charged with DUI or any other criminal charges, we can help get you the best possible results. Contact us today for a free consultation and get started right away building your defense.
The Law Office of Jason B. Going has years of experience providing excellent results helping clients just like you.
Through the years Jason has served as an advocate for numerous clients in matters before various Circuit Courts in Illinois and Missouri as well as before the Missouri Court of Appeals. He represents clients in various areas of law including personal injury, automobile accidents, workers' compensation, criminal defense, DUI/DWI defense, and traffic cases.. Jason is licensed in Illinois, Missouri, and Florida.