Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
As an experienced criminal defense attorney in Chicago, I understand the profound impact that aggravated DUI charges can have on your life. DUI, or driving under the influence, is a serious offense in Illinois, but when certain aggravating factors are present, the charges and penalties become significantly more severe. Aggravated DUI charges carry harsher consequences, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and more substantial long-term impacts on your personal and professional life. In this article, I will provide detailed information about aggravated DUI charges in Illinois, the relevant statutes, potential penalties, and common questions related to these charges.
Understanding the Statute and Relevant Laws
In Illinois, DUI offenses are primarily governed by 625 ILCS 5/11-501. This statute outlines the legal definition of driving under the influence and the penalties associated with DUI offenses. According to 625 ILCS 5/11-501, a person commits DUI when they drive or are in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination thereof, to a degree that renders them incapable of safely driving. A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher also constitutes DUI.
