DUI Defense Attorney for First-Time DUI, Repeat DUI, and Aggravated DUI in Joliet
Facing DUI charges can be overwhelming, as even a first offense can result in severe consequences. If you have been arrested for drunk driving, askilled attorney can help you better understand Illinois DUI laws and the potential outcomes of your situation. Whether you are navigating a first-time DUI, felony DUI, or other criminal charges, Fotopoulos Law Officecan provide the support and knowledge you need to effectively handle your case. Attorney John S. Fotopoulos has over two decades of experience,andhe will work tirelessly to present a well-prepared defense on your behalf. Our goal is to helpyou mitigate or avoid the harshest penalties that typically come witha DUI conviction, and we will work to minimize the impact ofthese charges onyour life,your finances, andyour future.
First Offense DUI Charges
A first-offense DUI in Illinois is a Class A misdemeanor. Even though a misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, a conviction can still lead to serious consequences. Drivers convicted of DUI for the first time may face penalties such as:
- Fines up to $2,500
- Possible jail time of up to one year
- A revocation of driving privileges for at least one year
In some cases, first-time offenders may qualify for court supervision, which can eventually lead to the dismissal of charges if all conditions are met. Our criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options, and we will advocate for leniency while working to help you regain your driving privileges as soon as possible.
Repeat DUI Charges
In Illinois, the consequences of a DUI conviction increase substantially for a second or third offense. A conviction for a repeat DUI can lead to a license revocation for several years, higher fines, mandatory community service, and even imprisonment in some cases.
A second DUI offense carries a minimum sentence of five days in jail or 240 hours of community service and a five-year driver’s license revocation. A third DUI conviction will result in a 10-year driver’s license revocation, the possibility of multiple years in prison, and up to $25,000 in fines. Representation from an attorney can be crucial in a repeat DUI case. Our team can help you explore options like plea agreements or reduced charges, and we will work to resolve your case while minimizing the penalties that may apply.
Aggravated and Felony DUI Charges
When certain factors are involved in a DUI case, it may be charged as a felony. Common aggravating factors that can lead to felony DUI charges include:
- Having a minor in the vehicle
- Causing an accident that leads to injury or death
- Driving on a suspended or revoked license at the time of the offense
Depending on the circumstances, aggravated DUI convictions can lead to prison sentences ranging from one to 30 years, with more serious cases incurring longer sentences. In these situations, Fotopoulos Law Office will help determine the ideal defenses. We can negotiate with prosecutors or seek alternative sentencing options like probation or treatment programs.
DUI Charges in Conjunction With Other Criminal Offenses
Sometimes, a DUI charge may be coupled with other criminal charges, such as drug possession, reckless driving, or vehicular manslaughter. When a case involves multiple charges, the severity of the potential penalties will increase, and a variety of complex factors may need to be considered. Because a conviction is likely to result in harsher sentencing, legal representation is essential. Fotopoulos Law Office understands how to approach these types of cases. Depending on the circumstances of a case, we may be able to negotiate for lesser charges, defend against a conviction by identifying weaknesses in the evidence, or argue for certain charges to be dropped.
Navigating Illinois DUI Laws and Penalties
Illinois DUI laws and the penalties that may apply upon arrest or conviction can be complicated. These harsh penalties are meant to prevent drunk driving and protect public safety. The state operates under an “implied consent” law, meaning that by driving in the state, drivers consent to blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing if they are arrested on suspicion of DUI. Refusing to take a chemical breath or blood test after a DUI arrest will result in an automatic license suspension. By contacting our DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible after being stopped or arrested, you can make sure your rights will be protected, and you can begin building a strong defense.
Contact Our Joliet, Illinois DUI Defense Attorney
When facing DUI charges, it is important to have knowledgeable legal representation. Fotopoulos Law Office provides clients with dedicated DUI defense services, striving to protect their rights and limit the impact of DUI charges on their lives. Contact us at 708-942-8400 to discuss your case and learn more about how we can assist you with your case.
