Overview of Chicago DUI Cases

Chicago DUI Defense Lawyer

It is against the law to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including medications prescribed by your doctor) and the penalties for offenses of this nature are severe. When an officer observes that a driver is not using good judgment or does not seem to be safely in control of a motor vehicle the officer may pull the driver over and begin tests for DUI (driving under the influence). He or she may perform field sobriety tests and may require the driver to participate in a breathalyzer, blood or urine test to determine if the driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over .08 percent or if any drugs are in the driver's system.

With enough evidence, however, a Chicago driver may be charged and convicted of DUI with a BAC of only .05 percent. Driving with a BAC of .16 percent or higher could result in upgraded charges. In accepting a driving permit a driver agrees to submit to testing therefore refusal to submit to chemical testing will result in an automatic driver's license suspension. A skilled DUI attorney can offer experienced legal counsel to challenge chemical test results or allegations that a driver has refused a test.

At our firm, we provide high quality, experienced DUI defense counsel for clients throughout Chicago and the surrounding areas. We regularly appear in Cook County courthouses and practice in many other neighboring parts. We are former prosecutors with thousands of cases of experience. With our experience, we can effectively handle virtually any type of drunk driving-related matter, including under 21 DUI and felony DUI cases involving DUI accidents causing injury or death. We can even assist out of state drivers with cases in our area.

Charged with driving under the influence in Chicago? Contact our firm today!

Law enforcement officers and testing personnel are required to follow certain procedures during testing and before making an arrest for DUI. Failure to follow the regulations closely may result in evidence being excluded from the trial. For example, a breathalyzer test result may be affected if the driver recently used a mouthwash or breath freshener or burped just prior to blowing into the device. A chemical test may show a false reading if testing is delayed or equipment is not properly maintained and calibrated, or the technician is not properly trained. A DUI lawyer can scrutinize every aspect of your case for violations and flaws in the evidence.

If you have been charged with a DUI-related misdemeanor or felony offense you are facing two separate matters: the criminal charges and the judicial hearing regarding your license suspension. Your Chicago criminal lawyer will also file your petition for a hearing and during the hearing will fight to prevent the loss of your driving privileges.

We are standing by to see how we can help you. Contact a Chicago DUI attorney at our firm today to discuss your defense.