A first DUI conviction in Illinois carries a jail sentence of up to one year, driver’s license suspension for up to one year, and a fine no more than $2,500. However, if certain aggravating factors exist, then a first drunk driving offense could be charged as a felony, rather than a misdemeanor.
The following are several examples of aggravated DUI in Illinois:
- DUI resulting in injury – If a DUI arrest involves another person suffering great bodily harm, disfigurement, or permanent disability, then it is considered a Class 4 felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to three years and a maximum fine of $2,500. If a first DUI involves a minor passenger who is younger than 16 years of age suffering an injury, it is also a Class 4 felony.
- DUI while driving a school bus with at least one passenger – Driving a school bus while intoxicated with one or more passengers on board is a Class 4 felony.
- DUI while driving without a license – Driving without a valid driver’s license or permit is a Class 4 felony.
- Prior conviction of an alcohol-related reckless homicide offense – If you were previously convicted of an alcohol-related reckless homicide offense, a DUI arrest will lead to a Class 3 felony charge, which carries a maximum prison term of five years and a fine not exceeding $2,500.
- DUI resulting in death – If a DUI arrest involves the death of another person, then it is a Class 2 felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to seven years and a maximum fine of $25,000.
Due to the serious penalties associated with aggravated DUI in Illinois, individuals who are facing such charges must obtain legal representation from a skilled criminal defense lawyer to either get the case dismissed or the sentence reduced to avoid incarceration. At the Law Office of Steven Fine, our Chicago DUI defense attorney has more than 20 years of experience helping clients facing serious DUI charges obtain the best possible results.
If you or a loved one was recently arrested for aggravated DUI in Chicago, contact us today at for a free consultation.
