Working to Protect Your Freedom
A conviction for a DUI/DWI is serious, even as a first offense. Convictions for two, three or more offenses are even more serious. Multiple DUI offenders in Illinois face stiff penalties, including jail time, long driver's license suspensions and vehicle forfeiture.
If you have been arrested or charged with repeat DUI offenses, it is important to work with a lawyer who will aggressively protect your rights and driving privileges. At the office of Scott B. Meyer Attorney at Law, you will find that kind of lawyer. We have 30 years of experience defending against drunk driving charges in Illinois, and we are ready to build a defense for you. We recognize how important it is to avoid DUI convictions and we work hard to lessen the impact that a repeat offense could have on your life.
To speak with an experienced Belleville felony DUI attorney, please call 618-207-3139 or toll free 866-520-8903. You can also contact our law firm online.
Understanding the Penalties for Multiple Drinking and Driving Convictions
When a police officer pulls over a driver and a second or third DUI charge is the result, heavy punishments are possible. Whether the driver fails a breath test, refuses one or has a history of earlier refusals, the situation quickly becomes complex. Here are some general guidelines for Illinois:
- Second conviction: Class A misdemeanor; five days mandatory jail sentence, with up to one year possible; fines of up to $2,500; license suspension of at least five years if this is the second offense within 20 years.
A third or subsequent conviction for DUI could be considered aggravated DUI, which is a felony. Similarly, there are complex laws that sometimes make even a first offense a felony, if certain conditions are present. Felony DUI carries harsh penalties, including lengthy jail terms and heavy fines. To protect yourself, you need the advice of a skilled Illinois DUI lawyer who understands what is at stake for you.
The penalties are even more severe if there was a child under the age of 16 in your vehicle at the time you were arrested or if your blood-alcohol content was .16 or higher. In addition, if you have commercial driver's license, you could face additional penalties, including possibly having your license revoked.
Providing the Defense You Need
You do not have to simply plead guilty to driving while intoxicated. We can help you minimize the effects or possibly get the charges dismissed entirely. Some of the things we will look for are:
- Validity of field sobriety tests
- Pre-existing conditions, such as acid reflux that can cause a breath test reading to be higher than it should be
- Validity of the traffic stop
- Legality of the search
Talk to an O'Fallon Repeat DUI Offender Attorney ...
Call 618-207-3139 or
If you are facing DWI charges in St. Clair County or the surrounding portions of southern Illinois, you will find the experienced, aggressive criminal defense representation you need at our law firm. Don't wait. C
