Situations in Which DUI Is a Felony Offense in Illinois

 Posted on March 25, 2021 in DUI

The act of drinking and driving is taken seriously by Illinois courts. As a result, the penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) include both administrative and criminal consequences. A first or second DUI is typically a misdemeanor offense in Illinois. While a misdemeanor conviction will still result in heavy fines, a driver’s license suspension of one year, and possibly jail time, felony DUI is punished much more harshly. A third or subsequent conviction for drunk driving or DUI involving certain aggravating factors is considered a felony offense in Illinois. If you are convicted of felony DUI, you could face years in prison and other life-changing consequences.

Receiving a Third, Fourth, or Fifth DUI Conviction

First and second DUIs are typically misdemeanor offenses in Illinois. Many individuals can avoid significant jail time and eventually regain their driving privileges after a first or second DUI. However, if a driver is convicted of driving under the influence for the third time, the penalties increase significantly. A third DUI is a Class 2 felony “aggravated DUI” punishable by three to seven years of imprisonment, a maximum fine of $25,000, and a 10-year driver’s license suspension. A fourth DUI is also punishable by three to seven years in prison and the offense is non-probational. A fifth DUI is a non-probational Class 1 felony punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. Fourth or fifth DUI convictions also result in a lifetime suspension of the offender’s driving privileges.

DUI Involving Aggravating Factors

There are several situations in which a first-time DUI is a felony offense in Illinois. A DUI may be classified as a felony if certain aggravating circumstances are present. Driving a school bus under the influence, DUI resulting in serious bodily harm, DUI with a suspended or revoked license, and driving under the influence without auto insurance are all Class 4 felonies in Illinois. DUI resulting in death and a second DUI with a passenger under 16 are both Class 2 felonies. If you are convicted of aggravated DUI, you face significant jail time and other consequences that have the potential to radically change your life.

Contact a Will County DUI Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one were charged with DUI, the consequences can last a lifetime. That is why it is important to contact the Law Offices of Tedone & Morton, P.C. for help. Our team of skilled Joliet criminal defense attorneys has experience defending against both misdemeanor and felony DUIs. We can help you fight for your freedom. Call 815-666-1285 or 815-733-5350 to arrange a free consultation.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-501