DUI Lawyers in Chicago, Illinois

A DUI charge should never be taken lightly, nor should it dictate the rest of your life. At Ciardelli, Cummings & Campagna LLC, we have extensive experience in DUI cases, offering a staunch defense and personalized legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Our dedicated attorneys are ready to defend your rights and aim for your best possible outcome. 

Why the Support of a DUI Defense Attorney Is Important

Facing a DUI charge in Illinois can mark one of the most stressful times in someone's life, and it's essential to have professional legal support. As your representation, we can guide you through the complex legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected from start to finish.

Our role is to build your strongest defense, challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, and fight for a result that's in line with your best interests. We'll be there with you every step of the way, providing the legal advice and representation that you need during this challenging time. 

Illinois DUI Laws

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge is not just a minor traffic violation; it's a serious criminal charge that can have severe consequences. Here's a foundation of the state's DUI laws that we believe all drivers should know:

• Legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Levels: Illinois law sets the legal BAC limit at 0.08% for most drivers. It's 0.04% for commercial vehicle drivers and a zero-tolerance rule for drivers under the age of 21. 

• Implied Consent Law: Drivers in Illinois are deemed to have given consent to chemical testing of blood, breath, or urine, by simply operating a vehicle. Refusal to submit to testing when suspected of DUI can result in automatic license suspension. 

• Penalties for First Offense: A first-time DUI offense can result in up to one year of jail time, a fine of up to $2,500, and license suspension for a minimum of one year. 

• Aggravated DUI: Any DUI resulting in felony charges, such as those involving bodily harm, death, repeat offenses, or driving a school bus with passengers under 18, are classified as aggravated DUI, which carry more severe penalties. 

• Ignition Interlock Devices: Offenders may be required to use an ignition interlock device (IID) as a condition for the reinstatement of driving privileges. This device requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before the vehicle can start. 

In Illinois, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. If you're found to be above this limit, you could be charged with a DUI. 

DUI Charges in Illinois 

DUI charges can be quite complicated. They can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances of the arrest. Factors such as your BAC level, whether there was a child in the car, or if you caused an accident while under the influence can all affect the severity of the charges.

Our criminal defense attorneys ensure that our clients fully understand the charges and potential consequences they're facing. 

Actual Physical Control

An interesting aspect of Illinois law is the concept of 'actual physical control'. This means that you don't necessarily have to be driving to be charged with a DUI. If you're found in a parked car while intoxicated, but the keys are in the ignition, you can still be charged. We can help argue against these types of charges and ensure that the law is correctly interpreted in your favor. 

Sobriety Tests and Your Rights

When you're pulled over on suspicion of DUI, you'll likely be asked to perform field sobriety tests. It's crucial to understand your rights in these situations. For instance, you have the right to refuse these tests, but refusal can lead to automatic suspension of your license. We can help you understand these rights and navigate the complicated process that follows a DUI arrest. 

Possible Penalties

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Illinois can be severe and long-lasting. They can include fines, jail time, and loss of driving privileges. Beyond legal consequences, people with multiple DUI charges on their record often grapple with increased insurance rates and potential employment challenges.

But a charge doesn't equal conviction. And your specific sentence will depend on the circumstances of your case, and the quality of your defense. We strive to minimize these potential consequences and work tirelessly to defend your rights. 

How Our Firm Can Help

At Ciardelli, Cummings & Campagna LLC, we are committed to providing our clients with comprehensive and compassionate legal representation. From the moment you contact us, we will begin building a robust defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. We understand the nuances of Illinois DUI laws and use this knowledge to fight for your rights and freedom. Trust us to stand by your side and advocate for you throughout this challenging process.