Three Things To Know About DUI Charges
When people are charged with driving under the influence (DUI), they are often unaware of what that charge truly means. At the Joliet law firm of Joel Murphy & Associates, we have worked with many individuals who were facing first-time charges and had many misconceptions about the process.
Here are three things that most people don’t know about DUI in Illinois:
1. Even First-Time Convictions Are Serious
A first-time DUI conviction can result in the loss of your driver’s license for at least one year, up to a year in prison and fines of as much as $2,500. It’s much more serious than a speeding ticket or another simple traffic violation. A DUI conviction can cause significant problems for you.
The good news is that our attorney has successfully defended hundreds of DUI cases and prevented steep fines, criminal convictions and the loss of driving privileges. We want to help you, too.
>2. The Punishments For Subsequent Convictions Get Worse
The consequences for repeat DUI offenses get much more severe. A second DUI conviction can result in at least a five-year suspension of driving privileges. Every person convicted of a second DUI will serve a minimum of five days up to a maximum of one year in prison. The maximum fine is $2,500.
When it’s a second DUI, having a lawyer is especially vital, since it may be possible for an attorney to negotiate community service instead of jail time.
3. The Judge Has More Flexibility Than You Think
One thing that people are often surprised to learn is that judges have much more flexibility than they imagined. Judges order punishments based on a spectrum, and that spectrum is quite wide.
Having an attorney who knows how to negotiate skillfully can make all the difference in persuading a judge to go with the lightest possible punishment, even if guilt is clear.
Learn More In A Free Consultation
Need aggressive help fighting the DUI charge you face? Joel Murphy & Associates won’t back down when it comes to defending your driving privileges and freedom.
Joel Murphy has practiced law since 2004. He is ready to help with even the toughest DUI cases, so call for a free consultation any time: 779-206-4088. You can also reach us online.
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