Facing Aggravated DUI with Great Bodily Harm Charges in Skokie, Illinois
Skokie, Illinois, is a thriving community just north of Chicago that offers its residents a rich cultural experience and access to one of the nation’s most dynamic urban centers. Unfortunately, serious traffic violations like aggravated DUI with great bodily harm can lead to devastating consequences for all parties involved. If you are accused of this offense in Skokie, understanding your legal options and the potential consequences is crucial.
Illinois Law on Aggravated DUI
Driving under the influence becomes an aggravated DUI when specific circumstances escalate the severity of the offense. According to 625 ILCS 5/11-501, an aggravated DUI with great bodily harm occurs when an impaired driver causes an accident resulting in significant injury. This is among the most severe DUI offenses and is treated as a felony in Illinois.
The penalties for this offense include substantial prison time, hefty fines, and the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. The exact class of felony depends on the specific facts of the case, such as whether the driver has prior convictions or if additional aggravating factors are present. Convictions also result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect multiple areas of your life, from employment to housing opportunities.
The Role of Law Enforcement and Evidence Collection
Law enforcement in Skokie plays a critical role in investigating accidents involving aggravated DUI charges. Officers at the scene gather evidence, which can include:
- Field sobriety and chemical tests to assess the driver’s level of impairment.
- Witness testimony from those who observed the crash.
- Photographic and video evidence of the accident scene.
- Medical reports documenting the extent of injuries sustained by victims.
Defendants should be aware that any statements made at the scene may be used against them in court. It is crucial to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Facing aggravated DUI charges without an attorney places you at a significant disadvantage. Prosecutors will aggressively pursue convictions, especially in cases involving great bodily harm. An experienced attorney will examine every detail of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and procedural errors by law enforcement.
A qualified defense attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing options, such as probation or community service. If the case proceeds to trial, your attorney will develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation, potentially challenging the admissibility of evidence or presenting alternative explanations for the accident.
Potential Defenses in Aggravated DUI Cases
Several defenses may be available in cases of aggravated DUI with great bodily harm. These include:
- Demonstrating that law enforcement lacked probable cause for the initial traffic stop.
- Arguing that the chemical tests used to determine impairment were administered improperly or produced inaccurate results.
- Highlighting external factors, such as weather or road conditions, that may have contributed to the accident.
The defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and should be crafted by an experienced attorney with knowledge of Illinois DUI laws.
Call Us For Your Free Consultation
If you’re facing an aggravated DUI charge in Skokie, 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 in Skokie, and 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.