A Guide to DUI – Drunk Driving in Chicago, Illinois

If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you could be in big trouble. However, you are going to be in a much bigger trouble if you say something or act in a way that can be used against you in the court of law. So, if and when a police officer in Chicago pulls you over for DUI testing, do not make things worse for yourself. Simply keep quiet.

DUI is a criminal offense

In the recent years, the feds have tightened the DUI defense law. They are not wrong because numerous people lose their lives and kill others due to drunken driving every year.

DUI is a criminal offense in Chicago. However, as per the DUI defense law, Illinois, DUI is considered to be a misdemeanor and not a felony. Felony is a crime of more serious nature than misdemeanor. Nevertheless, if the accusation against you is proved, you could face imprisonment of up to one year and a huge monetary penalty.

In some cases, you might be sentenced to judicial supervision. This is the lightest sentence you can get because judicial supervision is not a conviction. So, your driver’s license is not revoked. If you are convicted, you lose your driver’s license. You then have to plead with the Secretary of State and convince him to return your license.

What to do when you are caught driving under influence?

If you are caught driving under influence, there are two things that you should do. First, do not reveal anything to the police officer. Second, hire a criminal defense lawyer immediately.

When a police officer pulls you over, you must cooperate with him. You need to provide your identification. If you are asked to step out of the car, do it. However, you are not entitled to give a field sobriety test without the presence of your lawyer. So, politely decline the test and say that you need a lawyer.

Never reveal your day’s activities. Do not tell the police officer where you are coming from. Never reveal what sort of narcotic or alcohol you consumed and how much you consumed. An expert in DUI defense law can try and get you the least sentence or get you acquitted with nothing more than a rap on your knuckles, provided you don’t blow the whistle on yourself.

Acosta Law Group can help you out of a DUI case. If you are caught up in a DUI case, get in touch with us as soon as possible.