DUI and serious traffic offenses
A DUI arrest starts two cases at once: the criminal charge, and a separate suspension of your driver's license. Both have deadlines, and the license case moves first.
The license suspension
After a DUI arrest in Illinois, a statutory summary suspension usually begins on the 46th day after notice. For a first offense, the suspension is generally 6 months if the test showed 0.08 or more, and 12 months for refusing testing. You can challenge the suspension at a hearing, but the petition must be filed within 90 days of notice.
Cases we handle
- DUI, first and repeat offense625 ILCS 5/11-501
- Aggravated (felony) DUI625 ILCS 5/11-501(d)
- Driving while license suspended or revoked625 ILCS 5/6-303
- Reckless driving625 ILCS 5/11-503
- Leaving the scene of an accident625 ILCS 5/11-401
How we approach a DUI
We review the reason for the stop, the field sobriety tests, and the breath or blood testing procedures, and we get the squad and body camera video. Where a conviction is avoidable, we pursue options such as court supervision for eligible first offenders.
Questions
Can I drive during the suspension?
Many first offenders qualify for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit, which allows driving with a breath-alcohol device installed in the car.
Will a DUI stay on my record?
An Illinois DUI conviction, or court supervision for DUI, generally cannot be expunged or sealed. That makes the outcome of the case especially important.