Comparing DUI and Aggravated DUI in Illinois

In the interest of public health and safety, the State of Illinois has enacted strict laws against driving under the influence (DUI). To gain a full appreciation of these laws, the following sections will outline definitions of and penalties for DUI and aggravated DUI.

What is the Definition of DUI in Illinois?

The Illinois definition of DUI appears in 625 ILCS 5/11-501. In larger terms, Illinois makes it illegal to operate a vehicle while intoxicated. Intoxication can come from alcohol, illegal drugs, pharmaceuticals, or any combination of those compounds. In terms of alcohol, specifically, the legal limit in Illinois is a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08. If the driver is intoxicated or impaired — and, thus, incapable of safe driving conduct — then it may qualify as a DUI.

What are the Penalties for DUI in Illinois?

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, the penalties for DUI in Illinois change [...]

Written by on May 25, 2018

Six Reasons for Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation in Illinois

There are many reasons for which a person may face driver’s license suspension or revocation, including driving under the influence (DUI). Driver’s license suspension refers to a temporary measure. If the driver satisfies all requirements, he or she can regain driving privileges. On the other hand, driver’s license revocation is a permanent measure. In those circumstances, there is no guarantee that a driver can regain driving privileges.

The following sections will provide an overview of six situations in which a person may lose driving privileges in Illinois.

DUI

The Illinois definition of DUI includes being impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, and prescription medication. If the driver registers a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or more, then he or she is impaired. Driving privileges will be suspended or revoked, depending on the circumstances.

For drivers under the legal drinking age of 21, Illinois employs a zero-tolerance approach. If an under-21 [...]

Written by on April 13, 2018

How Does Illinois Penalize Driving Under the Influence?

In the interest of preserving public welfare and safe highways, the state of Illinois has enacted harsh penalties for driving under the influence (DUI). It does not matter if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If a driver is incapable of driving safely, then he or she runs the risk of a DUI charge. Illinois drivers must tread carefully in this arena, as the penalties for even a single DUI offense carry significant weight.

Illinois Penalties for DUI

When a person drives or otherwise operates a vehicle while impaired, there are severe consequences. For example:

    A driver who commits a single DUI offense is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor and subject to one year in jail, $2,500 in fines, and two years of probation. Additionally, there is a mandatory 12-month suspension of driving privileges. A driver who commits a second DUI offense is also
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Written by on April 6, 2018

Applying for Driver’s License Reinstatement in Illinois

When a person is convicted of DUI or certain traffic violations in Illinois, he or she may face driver’s license suspension or revocation. During the suspension or revocation period, Illinois prohibits the driver from operating a motor vehicle.

There are certain exceptions to this prohibition, including the restricted driving permit (RDP). In most cases, driver’s license reinstatement is not available until the end of the suspension or revocation period. Additionally, certain drivers face lifetime revocation from which there is no possibility of reinstatement.

Once a driver is eligible for reinstatement, he or she must attend an informal or formal hearing. The outcome of that hearing will determine whether the driver is able to regain driving privileges. The circumstances of the suspension or revocation determine whether the driver can attend an informal or formal hearing.

Informal Hearings

Informal hearings are available on a walk-in basis at numerous Illinois Secretary of State[...]

Written by on February 23, 2018