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Blog > Category

Category: Personal Injury

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  • April 12, 2018
  • Personal Injury

Possible Penalties for a DUI

Illinois has an implied consent law:

This means that if you refuse to submit to a chemical test such as a breathalyzer (on the field or back at the station), you maybe face a fine and an automatic license suspension.

1st Offense2d offense3rd Offense
Refusal to take the test1-year license suspension       3 years license suspension3 years license suspension

What are the penalties for a DUI in Illinois?

1st Offense2d offense3rd Offense
JailUp to 1 year          Up to 1 year3 to 7 years
Fines and PenaltiesUp to $2,500          Up to $2,500                     Up to $2,500
License SuspensionMin. 1 year          Min. 5 yearsMin. 10 years
IID** RequiredYes          YesYes

A first time DUI is usually a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Additionally, you may be asked to take alcohol classes, pay a fine, and/or perform community service.

However, Some aggravating factors such as Driving on a Suspended License, not having a proper license, or high speeding during the DUI, may increase the charge to Aggravated DUI. To get a better grasp of your individual possible penalties, it is best to speak to an attorney about your specific facts.

The Secretary of State automatically suspends your driver’s license when you are charged with a DUI. The length of this suspension depends on whether you took the field sobriety tests or breathalyzer.

The Secretary of State will mail you a notice that tells you the dates of your suspension. If you hire an experienced DUI attorney promptly, you may be able to get your suspension thrown out. This does not mean that you “win” your DUI case. Likewise, if you win your DUI, you still might have a suspended license. The Secretary of State and the Criminal Court operate on two different levels; so a finding in one does not necessarily have to affect the other.

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Related Articles

  • January 12, 2026
  • Criminal Defense

Protecting Your Future: The Vital Importance of Immediate Criminal Defense

PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE: THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF IMMEDIATE CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Few legal problems are more frightening than criminal charges. The moment you are accused, the weight of the legal system can feel overwhelming. However, it is important to remember that a charge is not a conviction—and the steps you take in the hours and days following an arrest can change the trajectory of your case.

PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE: THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF IMMEDIATE CRIMINAL DEFENSE

When facing the court, there is more than just your freedom on the line. A criminal record can create a “ripple effect” that touches every part of your personal and professional life. Beyond potential jail time or fines, your reputation, job prospects, driving privileges, and even your immigration status may be in jeopardy.

For many, a conviction can mean the loss of a professional license, difficulty finding housing, or permanent stains on a hard-earned reputation.

WHY YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO WAIT

The legal system moves quickly, and the prosecution is already building their case against you. If you’ve been charged with a crime, do not delay. Seeking legal advice immediately allows your attorney to:

  • Protect you from self-incrimination during questioning.
  • Preserve vital evidence and interview witnesses while memories are fresh.
  • Negotiate with prosecutors before the case even reaches the courtroom.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD YOUR DEFENSE

You don’t have to face this alone. At Quintana Law Group, we understand the high stakes involved in criminal defense. Our dedicated team is here to lead you through every step of the process, providing the aggressive representation and personalized strategies you deserve.

Contact Quintana Law Group today to learn about your rights and discuss your criminal defense needs. Your future is worth fighting for.

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  • October 1, 2019
  • Uncategorized

Alhambra Palace Reception Honoring Justice Jesse G. Reyes

Join us this upcoming Wednesday at Alhambra Palace Restaurant in Chicago!

My friends, colleagues, and I are hosting a special event for Jesse G. Reyes. For tickets visitContact us via email in our contact section.

www.quintanalawgroup.com

Read Article
  • August 21, 2019
  • Illinois Laws

I-294 Roadside Safety Check Planned for Labor Day Weekend

THE ILLINOIS STATE POLICE WILL BE CONDUCTING THE ROADSIDE SAFETY CHECK ALONG I-294 IN DES PLAINES.

The Illinois State Police are planning to conduct a Roadside Safety Check in Des Plaines during the late evening hours of Aug. 30 through the early morning hours of Aug. 31, according to a news release from the Illinois State Police. The roadside safety check will be held on the northbound Tri-State Tollway (I-294) at the Touhy Avenue Toll Plaza at milepost 41.6.

For the full article visit https://patch.com/illinois/desplaines/i-294-roadside-safety-check-planned-labor-day-weekend

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