Why Drugged Driving Charges in Will County Require a Strong Legal Defense
Illinois has seen a significant rise in drugged driving arrests, especially since the legalization of cannabis in 2020. Police in Will County, including Joliet, Plainfield, and Bolingbrook, are focusing heavily on drugged driving enforcement, leading to more arrests and DUI prosecutions.
Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, where breath tests provide immediate results, drug-related DUIs rely on subjective assessments and chemical testing, both of which can be unreliable. Many drivers falsely accused of drugged driving are not impaired but are wrongfully charged based on flawed testing procedures or officer bias.
How Illinois Law Handles Drugged Driving Cases
Illinois law makes it illegal to drive under the influence of any drug or intoxicating substance that affects a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, a driver can be charged with DUI if:
- They show visible signs of impairment.
- A blood or urine test detects any controlled substance, even if they are not impaired at the time.
Because Illinois has a zero-tolerance policy for drugged driving, a driver can be arrested even if they have legally consumed cannabis or prescription medication.
The Consequences of a Drugged Driving Conviction in Will County
If convicted of DUI drugs, a driver faces:
- Jail time (up to 1 year for a first offense, longer for repeat offenses).
- License suspension or revocation.
- Fines and court costs exceeding $2,500.
- Permanent criminal record.
For drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) or professional licenses, a DUI conviction can destroy their career.
Defending Against Drugged Driving Charges
A strong DUI defense attorney can:
- Challenge the accuracy of drug tests.
- Prove the driver was not impaired at the time of arrest.
- Suppress unlawful police stops.
At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we work to dismiss or reduce charges by exposing weak evidence, unlawful stops, and testing inaccuracies.
Call the Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for DUI Defense
A drugged driving arrest in Will County does not mean an automatic conviction. You have legal rights, and a strong defense strategy can help reduce or dismiss charges. At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we have decades of experience handling DUI drug cases in Will County and throughout Illinois. We provide aggressive representation to protect your rights, license, and freedom. We are available 24/7 for a free consultation to discuss your case and develop a defense strategy.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides aggressive legal representation for those accused of DUI in Will County and throughout Illinois. We offer free consultations 24/7 to discuss your case and legal options. Contact us today at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442 for dedicated defense in Will County, DuPage County, Cook County, Lake County, and the greater Chicago area.