“Driving under the influence” (DUI) is probably the most common. The consequences of driving under the influence are severe. And while every state has laws prohibiting drunk driving, states use different terms to describe the offense.
All states have two types of DUI: “per se” DUIs and DUIs based on impairment. The difference is how the prosecution proves you were “under the influence.” To be convicted of a per se DUI, the prosecution must prove you drove with an amount of alcohol or drugs in your system that exceeded the legal limit. (In some states, the per se laws apply to blood alcohol concentration but not drug concentration.) Impairment DUIs, on the other hand, require proof that the driver’s mental or physical abilities were affected by the drugs or alcohol ingested.
Do You Need an Attorney?
A DUI is a criminal offense that carries serious consequences. A first conviction can lead to jail time, expensive fines, and license suspension. And aggravating factors — like prior convictions, a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or an accident — can increase the already-severe penalties.
Also, DUI law is complicated and constantly changing. So it’s easy to get tripped up in the legal nuances or misinterpret the law altogether. An attorney who focuses on and stays abreast of recent changes in DUI law will likely increase the chances of a good outcome.
Hiring an attorney certainly involves spending money. But in many cases, it’s well worth the investment. And if you can’t afford private counsel, you’re generally entitled to a court-appointed lawyer. Fortunately we offer low affordable flat fees on all DUI cases.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
If you want to know how the law applies to the facts of your case, it’s best to talk to a local Chicago, Illinois, DUI lawyer. Our office offers free virtual and or telephonic consultations to evaluate your case. Please call Chicago North Side DUI lawyer Toma Makedonski at 773-727-5491.
Complete this form to get a free case review from an experienced local Chicago, Illinois, DUI attorney. Call Chicago North Side DUI Lawyer and inquire about our affordable low flat fees. For a free case evaluation call or text 773-727-5491.