Bloomington IL DUI Lawyer

Reaching out to an experienced Bloomington, IL, DUI lawyer should be one of the first steps taken after receiving a DUI charge. In Illinois, drivers who have a blood alcohol content (BAC) that exceeds .08% will be charged with a DUI if pulled over by law enforcement. It may come as a surprise, but this threshold is not difficult to meet, and it’s not uncommon for someone to get behind the wheel unaware that they have consumed more than the legally acceptable amount. Unfortunately, receiving a DUI charge and subsequent conviction can have lasting consequences, and legal representation from Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols will be essential. Working with a law firm can offer defendants a sound legal strategy and the answers to the many questions they will undoubtedly have regarding what happens next. 

What are the first steps to take after being charged with a DUI?

It’s possible that if a driver was pulled over and charged with a DUI, they might have to serve jail time. However, for those who are charged with a misdemeanor, or it is their first DUI charge, this may not be required. After a charge, it’s imperative to contact a Bloomington, IL DUI lawyer with experience in this practice area. They will be able to review the case and determine the proper course of action. 

What are the possible consequences of a subsequent DUI conviction?

Consequences vary for DUI convictions depending upon the severity and whether or not this is the defendant’s first DUI. While a second DUI is likely to be classified as a misdemeanor, the consequences are more significant than the first time around. Drivers could face time in jail, higher fines, and loss of license for up to 5 years. For a third DUI conviction, drivers may be charged with a felony offense, which is subject to jail time or community service, even higher fines, and loss of license for ten years. 

Is there a way to keep my license after being convicted of a DUI?

First-time offenders may lose their license for one year if convicted, which can be incredibly challenging for many drivers. With guidance from a lawyer, it may be possible to retain some driving privileges by seeking a restricted driving permit (RDP) or hardship license. This allows drivers to continue driving for medical care, employment, child care, etc. Keep in mind that drivers may be required to have an ignition interlock device, a car breathalyzer device is installed in the vehicle to monitor whether a person is attempting to drive under the influence. 

Can a lawyer get a DUI case dismissed?

Yes. It may be possible to get the DUI case dismissed. However, this will require having a lawyer who has extensive knowledge of the legal system and representing DUI cases. A lawyer will review the case looking for key details that may strengthen this possibility, including challenging the field sobriety tests that were conducted and determining whether the traffic stop was valid. 

For more information on service offerings at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols, please schedule a consultation with our Bloomington, IL DUI lawyer.