Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog

March 7, 2025

Felony DUI Defense Lawyer in Cook County

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Cook County is home to Chicago and numerous surrounding municipalities, making it one of the most heavily policed areas in Illinois. Law enforcement agencies throughout the county aggressively pursue DUI cases, and while some are charged as misdemeanors, others carry felony classifications. A felony DUI conviction can have serious, life-altering consequences, making skilled legal representation essential for anyone accused of this offense.

Understanding Illinois Felony DUI Laws

DUI laws in Illinois are codified under 625 ILCS 5/11-501. A DUI becomes a felony, referred to as Aggravated DUI, when specific factors elevate the charge. Some of the most common circumstances that result in felony DUI charges include:

March 6, 2025

Defending Against a DUI Charge Involving a Minor Passenger in Cook County, Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Being charged with a DUI in Cook County is a serious legal matter, but when a minor is present in the vehicle at the time of the arrest, the stakes become even higher. Illinois law treats DUI offenses involving children as aggravated crimes, imposing harsher penalties and long-term consequences. If you are facing this type of charge, it is critical to understand the laws, the legal process, and how an experienced DUI defense attorney can help protect your rights and future.

Understanding DUI Laws in Illinois and the Aggravated DUI Charge

Illinois has strict DUI laws under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, which prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher can be charged with a DUI, but even those with lower BAC levels may be prosecuted if they show signs of impairment.

March 5, 2025

Are Passengers Required to Identify Themselves During a Traffic Stop in Illinois?

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Traffic stops can be stressful experiences, especially if you are a passenger in the vehicle. Many people wonder whether passengers have the same legal obligations as drivers during a traffic stop, particularly when it comes to identifying themselves to law enforcement. Understanding your rights as a passenger in Illinois is essential to ensuring that you do not unintentionally waive any constitutional protections.

Illinois Law on Traffic Stops and Passenger Identification

Under Illinois law, the driver of a vehicle is required to provide identification and produce a valid driver’s license when pulled over by law enforcement. This obligation falls under 625 ILCS 5/6-112, which requires motorists to carry and display a driver’s license upon request from an officer. However, for passengers, the law is not as clear-cut.

March 5, 2025

Felony DUI Defense Attorney in Lake County, Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Drugged Driving Defense Lawyer in Lake County – Fighting DUI Charges in Illinois

Lake County, Illinois, is a thriving region with a mix of suburban neighborhoods, business districts, and heavily traveled highways. Law enforcement in Lake County takes DUI enforcement seriously, including arrests for drugged driving. Whether the alleged impairment is caused by marijuana, prescription medications, or other controlled substances, a DUI conviction can result in severe legal penalties and long-term consequences.

The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg is committed to protecting the rights of those accused of drugged driving in Lake County. With years of experience defending DUI cases, our firm understands how to challenge evidence, dispute police observations, and seek reduced penalties for our clients.

March 3, 2025

Drugged Driving Defense Lawyer in Lake County, Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Lake County Drugged Driving Defense: Understanding Your Legal Rights

Drugged driving charges in Lake County, Illinois, can have severe consequences, including loss of driving privileges, substantial fines, and potential jail time. The Illinois legal system treats drug-related DUIs with the same severity as alcohol-related offenses, and law enforcement aggressively pursues these cases. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, understanding your rights and legal options is essential to building a strong defense.

Illinois Laws Governing Drugged Driving and Associated Penalties

March 2, 2025

DUI with Property Damage Defense Lawyer in Lake County, Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Defending Against DUI with Property Damage Charges in Lake County, Illinois

Lake County, Illinois, is home to cities like Waukegan, Libertyville, and Gurnee, where busy roads and high traffic volume make DUI charges with property damage a serious concern. If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and causing property damage, you may be facing criminal penalties that can impact your freedom, finances, and future. The right legal defense can make all the difference in your case.

Illinois DUI Laws and Property Damage Charges

March 1, 2025

DUI Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accident Defense Lawyer in Lake County, Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Defending DUI Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Charges in Lake County, Illinois

Lake County is one of the most populated areas in Illinois, featuring bustling city centers and suburban roads that see heavy traffic. Unfortunately, DUI-related pedestrian accidents can and do happen. If you are facing allegations of a DUI pedestrian hit-and-run accident, you may be at risk of serious legal penalties, including felony charges, long-term license revocation, and potential incarceration.

The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg understands the stakes of such cases and is committed to providing strategic defense representation to individuals facing DUI hit-and-run allegations in Lake County.

February 28, 2025

3rd DUI Defense Lawyer in Lake County, Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Lake County, Illinois, is home to bustling cities like Waukegan, Gurnee, and Libertyville. With an increasing focus on strict DUI enforcement, those facing a third DUI charge can expect aggressive prosecution. Illinois law treats a third DUI as a Class 2 felony, meaning a conviction can lead to substantial prison time, significant fines, and a long-term driver’s license revocation. If you or a loved one is in this position, hiring an experienced DUI defense lawyer is essential to fight the charges and protect your rights.

Understanding Illinois DUI Laws and Penalties

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, Illinois law prohibits operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A third DUI conviction is not a misdemeanor—it is a felony, carrying life-altering consequences. The penalties for a third DUI conviction in Illinois include:

February 27, 2025

Defending Against a Third DUI Charge in Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

A third DUI charge in Illinois is a serious felony offense that carries severe penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence, long-term license revocation, and substantial fines. Unlike a first or second DUI, a third conviction is not eligible for court supervision, making it even more critical to fight the charges aggressively.

Illinois prosecutors treat repeat DUI offenders harshly, and a third conviction could lead to life-changing consequences. However, a DUI charge does not mean an automatic conviction. With the right legal strategy, it is possible to challenge the evidence, negotiate reduced penalties, or even have the charges dismissed.

Illinois DUI Laws and Penalties for a Third DUI

February 26, 2025

What Are the Penalties for Aggravated DUI Causing Death in Illinois?

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Chicago is home to millions of residents and visitors, making its roads some of the busiest in the country. With heavy traffic and strict law enforcement, DUI laws in Illinois are aggressively prosecuted, especially when a DUI results in a fatal accident. Aggravated DUI causing death is one of the most serious criminal charges a person can face in Illinois, carrying severe legal and personal consequences. If convicted, the penalties can include significant prison time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Understanding how Illinois law applies to these cases is essential for anyone facing such charges.

Under Illinois law, an aggravated DUI involving a fatality is classified as a felony offense. The state follows a strict sentencing structure that mandates severe consequences. According to 625 ILCS 5/11-501(d)(1)(F), a person is guilty of aggravated DUI causing death if they operate a vehicle while impaired and cause the death of another individual. This charge is classified as a Class 2 felony. However, due to the nature of the crime, sentencing guidelines require a minimum term of three years in prison, with a maximum sentence of 14 years if one person was killed. If multiple fatalities occurred, the maximum sentence increases to 28 years.

Aggravated DUI causing death is not eligible for probation, meaning a conviction almost always results in a prison sentence. The court also considers aggravating factors, such as prior DUI offenses, reckless driving, or an excessively high blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If the defendant had a BAC of 0.16% or higher, additional penalties may apply, including longer incarceration and steeper fines. In addition to prison time, a conviction leads to long-term consequences, such as license revocation, mandatory alcohol education programs, and civil liability for damages.