Understanding DUI Penalties
Few people get behind the wheel and knowingly drive drunk. However, understanding the DUI penalties you might be facing if you get caught can help you be more cognizant of your driving abilities after you have had a few drinks.
At Miller & Pugh Law Offices, P.C., our attorneys help clients throughout Peoria and Central Illinois understand the penalties that come with DUI charges. Contact us online or call 309-265-0816 to schedule your free initial consultation. If we understand your situation, we may be able to help you fight the charges. We help clients whose concerns involve:
- Fines: The first time you are arrested for a DUI, the charge will likely be a Class A misdemeanor. This can carry a jail sentence of up to 364 days, two years of probation and up to $2,500 in fines. There is also a mandatory $500 fee for your first DUI offense. For any repeat or felony offenses, there can be up to $25,000 in fines and range of 3 to 14 years in jail. The mandatory fines for a second offense start at $1,000.
- Drug and alcohol treatment: Many courts require people charged with drunk driving to attend drug and alcohol treatment. During these classes you will be required to listen to how drunk drivers have negatively impacted the lives of others.
- Increased insurance rates: If you are allowed to drive after a DUI conviction, you will probably be nailed with higher insurance rates. The state can require DUI offenders to purchase high risk insurance in order to be licensed.
- Restricted driving privileges: After a DUI, your license can be suspended or revoked for years or even a lifetime. You may be required to purchase in ignition interlock device, which monitors your BAC (blood alcohol content) prior to operating the car.
- Employment: Many employers do not consider applicants if they have any criminal history, and some employers fire their employees for drunk driving. In addition, if you rely on your license for your job (such as a commercial driver's license or CDL), you may lose your livelihood.
To learn more about DUI penalties, schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced lawyers by contacting us online or calling 309-265-0816.