What Happens if I Get a Second DUI in Illinois? 

 Posted on September 30, 2024 in DUI/DWI

A first DUI can be written off as a simple lapse in judgment or a youthful mistake. The consequences, while painful, are usually not too harsh. Getting a second DUI is a much more serious matter. After a second arrest for driving drunk or high, you are probably going to be almost automatically deemed an alcoholic or addict. The court might start to think that letting you drive might be a risk to the public’s safety. If you avoided jail time the first time, you may not be so lucky the second time. However, you have the same opportunity to defeat the charge that you did the first time. Involving an experienced Grundy County, IL repeat DUI lawyer right away is best way to protect your rights. 

Consequences of a Second DUI

The consequences of a second DUI in Illinois include: 

• Having a criminal record - For a first DUI, you might be able to get a sentence of court supervision, which means that if you complete all the requirements, you can escape without a criminal record. A second DUI would result in a conviction unless your case is dismissed or you are found not guilty at trial. 

• Between five days and one year in jail - Jail time is much more likely in a repeat DUI case. There is a mandatory minimum sentence of either five days in jail or 240 hours of community service. Jail time is mandatory if your B.A.C. was over 0.16 percent. 

• A fine of up to $2,500 - Steep fines are designed to discourage drunk driving. 

• Loss of license - In Illinois, a second DUI means that your driver’s license will be revoked for five years. If you are eligible for a restricted license so that you can drive for essential purposes like getting to work, you will have to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car. This device will measure your B.A.C. before you can start your vehicle and at random intervals while you are driving.

If your second DUI involves aggravating factors that make it a felony, like having a minor passenger or causing bodily harm to another person, you might face much steeper penalties. Felony DUI can lead to over a year of time in prison and other very harsh consequences. 

Contact a Grundy County, IL Repeat DUI Lawyer

Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. will help you fight back against your DUI charge. Experienced Joliet, IL second DUI attorney Jack L. Zaremba has spent his entire legal career working in the field of criminal law. Contact us at 815-740-4025 for a complimentary consultation.