Driving Under The Influence Can Be Costly
A person found guilty of drunk driving may have to face to jail time for a DUI conviction as well as a driver’s license suspension. DUI fines represent another penalty that can accompany a conviction.
The DUI fines that are imposed on those found guilty of drunk driving vary because the judge has the discretion to decide how much a fine will be. Just as no two cases are the same, no two judges, or judicial venues are the same either. In the Chicago area, you are likely to be charged in Cook County, but you may also find that depending on your location, the jurisdiction for your case in DuPage County.
Either way, with an attorney who is familiar with the workings of that particular judiciary, your chances of receiving the best possible outcome for your case are increased.
DUI Fine Amounts
Generally speaking, fines are likely to increase with the number of prior offenses as well as the perceived severity of the charges filed.
Fines for DUI offenses follow:
- For a first offense, a fine of up to $2,500 may be charged. In the event that your blood alcohol content was .16 or higher, there is a mandatory minimum fine of $500. A mandatory minimum fine of $1,000 applies if there is a child under 16 in the car.
- A second offense can result in a fine of up to $2,500. In the event that your blood alcohol content was over .16, there is a mandatory minimum fine of $1250. If you were involved in an accident and a child under the age of 16, you are subject to a minimum fine of $2,500.
- For a third offense, a fine up to $25,000 may be applied. If your blood alcohol content is over.16, you will face a mandatory $2,500 fine. If a child under 16 is in the vehicle, there is a mandatory fine of $25,000
- A fourth or subsequent offense can yield a fine of up to $25,000. If your blood alcohol content is over .16 percent, you will face a mandatory $5,000 fine. If a child under 16 is in the vehicle, there is a mandatory fine of $25,000
Added to all fines for driving under the influence is a mandatory DUI tech fee of up to $1,000 and a roadside memorial fee of $50. You are also likely to be responsible for the cost of alcohol education classes, license reinstatement fees and, if applicable, installation of an ignition interlock device.
