A third DUI arrest may have serious consequences for an Illinois driver. Third drunk driving offenses are classified as felonies in Illinois, and a defendant may face imprisonment for up to 7 years and heavy fines as well as license revocation. Regardless of the circumstances of your case, it is important to involve a skilled DUI defense lawyer in Chicago as quickly as possible.
Penalties for a Third DUI Offense (Aggravated DUI)
The following penalties may be imposed for a third DUI:
- 3 to 7 years in prison
- Fines of up to $25,000
- Revocation of driving privileges for at least 10 years
If the defendant's blood alcohol level was .16% or greater, the court may impose a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 90 days and a minimum fine of $2,500. If a child under 16 was in the vehicle at the time of the offense, the defendant may face, in addition to the penalties listed above, a mandatory minimum fine of $25,000 and 25 days of community service in a program that benefits children.
Challenging Your Charges: Fagan, Fagan & Davis
You may have taken a breath test that showed a result of .08% or greater, or may have been told by law enforcement that you have no hope of avoiding a conviction because of the evidence against you. Instead of accepting a plea bargain or choosing to forgo legal counsel, involve a lawyer who has the training and experience to help. Even in the face of allegedly poor performance on field sobriety tests or a failed breath/blood test, your attorney may be able to employ effective strategies that turn your case in your favor.
Our attorneys have the training and experience to know how field sobriety tests, breath tests and blood tests should be administered. We understand how a police officer must establish probable cause before making an arrest for DUI. We use all of our experience to challenge our clients' first, second, third or subsequent drunk driving charges to protect their best interests. To enlist our knowledgeable defense team, call our firm today to discuss your case!