Things To Know If You Get A DUI
Getting arrested and charged with a DUI can be frightening for anyone. Especially for first-time offenders, it is hard to know what to expect after you’ve gotten a DUI. Here are some guidelines for the DUI process:
- You will have to go to court. The court date will be on the ticket issued by the police or on the bond sheet.
- If you submit to a breathalyzer or other chemical testing:
- Your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for a period of six (6) months if it is your first DUI charge. The suspension will begin 45 days after your arrest.
- Your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for a period of twelve (12) months if it is your second or subsequent DUI arrest. The suspension will begin 45 days after your arrest.
- If you refuse to submit to a breathalyzer or other chemical testing:
- Your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for a period of twelve (12) months if it is your first DUI charge. The suspension will begin 45 days after your arrest.
- Your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for a period of thirty-six (36) months if it is your second or subsequent DUI arrest. The suspension will begin 45 days after your arrest.
- You will be required to complete a DUI evaluation uniform report. You will be required to complete alcohol education classes or alcohol treatment depending on the results of the test.
- In DuPage County, the evaluation is done at the County Complex. The phone number is 630-407-8384.
- In Cook County, the evaluation is done at Central States Institute. The phone number is 312-655-7530.
- In all other counties, an evaluation can be completed at any private treatment provider.
A Few Things to Remember
- In all cases, you may petition the court to allow you to keep your license, however, it is a difficult burden to prove and the percentages of winning are low.
- A first DUI is a Class A misdemeanor. If convicted, driving privileges can be suspended for one (1) year, imprisonment of up to one (1) year, and suspension of driving privileges.
- 29% of all first time DUI arrests result in a conviction where the mandatory penalties apply.
- 61% of all first-time DUI arrests result in Court Supervision. A person can only receive court supervision once in their lifetime. If a person receives court supervision, the judge can impose penalties other than the mandatory penalties.
- Underage DUI convictions result in loss of driving privileges for a minimum of two (2) years. Any trace of alcohol found in an underage driver will result in the loss of driving privileges for three (3) months, even if the driver is not legally intoxicated.
At New Visions Court Counseling Services, Inc., we help residents of DuPage, Will and Cook Counties with DUI education and counseling. We can assist you in getting the court-ordered treatment you need so that you can get your license reinstated as quickly as legally possible. To schedule an appointment, call (630) 493-1100 to speak to our friendly staff.
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