Protecting Your Rights Against Aggravated DUI Charges in Arlington Heights, Illinois
Arlington Heights, a picturesque suburb of Chicago, is renowned for its tight-knit community, cultural attractions, and convenient access to the greater Cook County area. Despite its charm, Arlington Heights sees serious legal issues, including aggravated DUI charges involving great bodily harm. These cases are among the most severe DUI-related offenses in Illinois, carrying long-term consequences for defendants.
Illinois DUI Laws and Aggravated DUI Offenses
Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, Illinois imposes strict penalties for DUI offenses. When a DUI results in serious injuries to another person, the charge is elevated to an aggravated DUI, which is treated as a felony. The law aims to hold drivers accountable for causing harm while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or intoxicating substances.
An aggravated DUI with great bodily harm applies when:
- The victim suffers injuries requiring hospitalization or long-term care.
- The driver’s impairment is deemed the primary cause of the accident.
- Aggravating factors, such as prior DUI convictions, are present.
This offense is classified as a Class 4 felony, but the severity of the penalties can increase with additional aggravating factors.
Penalties for Aggravated DUI Convictions
A conviction for aggravated DUI with great bodily harm can have life-altering consequences, including:
- Prison sentences ranging from one to twelve years.
- Fines up to $25,000, including compensation for the victim’s medical expenses and damages.
- Long-term or permanent revocation of driving privileges.
- Mandatory participation in substance abuse treatment programs.
The collateral consequences of a felony conviction include difficulty finding employment, housing restrictions, and the stigma of a criminal record. If multiple victims are injured, the penalties can be compounded, with each injury leading to additional prison time.
How Criminal Cases Progress in Arlington Heights
In Arlington Heights, an aggravated DUI case often begins with a traffic stop or a response to an accident. If law enforcement suspects impairment, they may conduct field sobriety tests or request a chemical test. Failure or refusal to comply with these tests can result in immediate arrest.
Once the defendant is in custody, the case moves to the Cook County court system. The defendant will face arraignment, where they are formally charged and have the opportunity to enter a plea. The pretrial phase involves evidence collection, motions to suppress evidence, and plea negotiations. If the case cannot be resolved pretrial, it proceeds to trial.
Evidence in Aggravated DUI Cases
Prosecutors rely on a variety of evidence to build their case, including:
- Breathalyzer or blood test results showing the defendant’s level of impairment.
- Police reports detailing the officer’s observations and the results of field sobriety tests.
- Accident reconstruction reports that establish the cause of the crash.
- Testimony from witnesses who were present at the scene.
- Medical records demonstrating the extent of the victim’s injuries.
An experienced attorney can challenge this evidence, particularly in cases where tests were improperly administered or external factors contributed to the accident.
Building a Strong Defense
A strong defense strategy for an aggravated DUI with great bodily harm involves challenging the prosecution’s case at every stage. This can include disputing the accuracy of chemical tests, arguing that law enforcement violated the defendant’s rights during the arrest, or demonstrating that the injuries were not directly caused by the defendant’s actions.
Why You Need an Attorney
Facing an aggravated DUI charge without legal representation is a significant mistake. The penalties are severe, and the stakes are too high to leave your defense to chance. An experienced attorney will ensure your rights are protected, negotiate on your behalf, and present a compelling defense to minimize the impact of the charges.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg has decades of experience handling aggravated DUI cases in Arlington Heights and throughout Cook County. Our team is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Call Us For Your Free Consultation
If you’re facing an aggravated DUI charge in Arlington Heights, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for skilled legal assistance. With decades of experience and a commitment to protecting your rights, we offer a free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. We serve clients throughout Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County in Illinois. Let us help you navigate the legal system and fight for your future.