Getting arrested for your first DUI can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. You know you’ll face punishments if you’re convicted, but those punishments can differ from what you may see on the news. Your Illinois DUI defense attorney will do their best to mitigate the severity of the punishments you face, whether you’re charged with your first offense or your third. But it’s still helpful to know what types of punishments you may face. Let’s take a closer look.
The Penalties for First-Time DUI Offenses
Though first-time offenses are classified as a misdemeanor, Illinois uses strict punishments to discourage first-time offenders from getting behind the wheel after one too many in the future. Some of these penalties may include:
- Jail time: First-time DUI offenses may result in jail time of up to one year.
- Fines: You may be required to pay a fine of up to $2,500 with a minimum fine of $500.
- Court costs: You’ll be responsible for paying all court-related expenses and fees, including any costs for mandatory alcohol awareness or rehabilitation programs.
- Community service: If your BAC level was 0.016% or higher, the Illinois DUI court will require you to complete at least 100 hours of community service. This may involve helping out at a court-specified organization or cleaning up roadways.
- Driver’s license suspension: First-time offenders will also have their license suspended for one year following their conviction. Your attorney may help you request a restricted driving permit if your work, education, or other obligations require it.
You may be subject to a mix of these penalties depending on the severity of the charges against you. Your Illinois DUI defense attorney can explain the types of punishments you may face in detail during your consultation.
The Penalties for Repeat Offenses
If you’ve been convicted of DUI in the past, the penalties you’ll face will be more severe. This includes the following:
- Jail time: Repeat offenders may be sentenced to up to 30 years in jail, depending on the number of times they’ve been convicted of DUI in the past and the severity of the charges they’re facing.
- Fines: You’ll have to pay fines of up to $25,000 with a minimum required fine of $5,000.
- Court costs: You’re required to pay any court-related costs and fees.
- Driver’s license suspension: If convicted, you may lose your driver’s license for several years to life, depending on the number of prior DUI convictions you’ve had. After several years of good behavior, your DUI defense attorney may help you apply for a restricted driving permit if needed.
These penalties are designed to keep you from getting behind the wheel after drinking more than you should. They’re serious and can have long-term impacts on your ability to live your life.
How First-Time DUI Convictions Can Impact Your Life
The legal penalties for DUI convictions aren’t the only way these charges can impact your life. The conviction can also result in disruptions that you may not expect, including:
- Difficulty finding work: A DUI conviction can keep you from being eligible for work in certain industries.
- A criminal record: Even misdemeanor convictions will show up on your permanent record. This information will be accessible to anyone performing a background check.
- Difficulty getting a new home: If you rent and your landlord does a background check, they may see that you have a criminal record, which could make your application less ideal.
- Financial strain: Court costs, fines, and other fees can add up quickly, putting strain on your finances. And when combined with missed work, you could end up between a rock and a hard place.
Schedule a Consultation With Fabbrini Law Group
If you’re facing DUI charges, whether it’s for your first offense or your third, having an experienced Illinois DUI defense attorney on your side is essential. Contact Fabbrini Law Group today to schedule a free consultation and get the legal advice you need now.