DUI

DUI

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois is a serious crime. It is also something that can happen to almost anyone. You may feel that you have consumed only a reasonable amount of alcohol and that you're capable of driving, but if you're stopped, and are found to have a blood alcohol level (BAC) above the legal limit of .08, you could be facing penalties that could derail your life. This is especially true if the DUI is charged as a felony.

If during an arrest for DUI, a person refuses to submit to chemical testing or fails a chemical test they will be subject to a Statutory Summary Suspension. It's not a criminal penalty, but an administrative action by the Secretary of State. While this action is automatic, it can be challenged. The length of the suspension depends on whether a person refused to submit to the chemical test or failed the chemical test. The suspension takes effect on the 46th day from the date of the suspension notice, so there is time for a good lawyer to challenge the action and preserve your ability to drive legally.

A first conviction for a DUI without any aggravating factors may not result in jail time, but it will revoke your license for a year--two years if you're under 21. From there, the penalties get more and more harsh the more convictions you have or if there are aggravating factors. These include a BAC of .16 or more, or if you were transporting children under 16. Depending on the number of convictions you've racked up, and the circumstances of your arrest, you may face jail time, fines, license revocation, suspension of your vehicle's registration, and installation of an ignition interlock device when you are permitted to drive again.

What does all this mean for you? Losing the ability to drive may cost you your job, and having a DUI conviction on your record may cost you future job opportunities. In addition to losing income, you'll lose money to fines and the increased cost of auto insurance. A DUI conviction can negatively affect your relationships and your standing in the community. It follows you forever.

Beuke & Beuke feel that your life shouldn't be ruined because of a mistake. We represent clients on Illinois DUI charges including:

  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
  • Aggravated DUI
  • Driving Under the Extreme Influence (BAC > .16)
  • DUI with Child Endangerment
  • Refusing to Submit to Chemical Testing
  • Knowingly Permitting a Driver Under the Influence to Operate a Vehicle
  • Possession of Drugs in a Vehicle

Attorneys Rick Beuke and Peter Beuke focus their practice on criminal defense, including DUI. Both Rick and Peter worked as prosecutors prior to becoming defense attorneys. When you're facing a DUI charge, your license, employment, and freedom are at risk. A strong defense is your best investment. If you have been charged with DUI, don't risk a conviction--get skilled legal help. Contact Beuke & Beuke immediately so that we can get to work protecting your rights and your future.

Attorneys:  Rick Beuke, Peter Beuke