Losing Your Driving Privileges
In Illinois, like every state in the U.S., there is a civil side to DUI charges. This means that if you submit to a blood, breath or urine test and your blood alcohol content is .08 or higher, you may have your driver’s license suspended.
The severity of your offense will determine the severity of your penalties
Dealing with a suspended driver’s license can be of one the hardest penalties of a DUI charge to deal with. Without your ability to drive, even simple everyday tasks like picking up the kids from school or stopping by the grocery store can become challenging.
The Duration Of A Suspended Driver’s License
Any amount of time spent without a driver’s license can be difficult on you and your family. Unfortunately, DUI-related offenses often require you to be without driving privileges for significant periods.
Driver’s license suspensions can vary depending upon whether you have prior DUI convictions. Suspension periods are:
- For a first conviction, you can expect to lose your license for one year if you are of legal drinking age and two years if you are under 21. After the 31st day of a suspension, you may, at the discretion of the judge be eligible for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP). This route requires the installation of an ignition interlock device.
- A second conviction may lead to a license suspension of up to one year, or a minimum of five years if this is your second DUI within 20 years.
- A third conviction can result in a mandatory minimum revocation of your driver’s license for 10 years.
- A fourth or subsequent conviction may lead to your driver’s license being revoked for your lifetime.
It is important to note that the specific duration of a suspended driver’s license may be affected beyond the number of prior DUI offenses. For example, being charged with aggravated DUI may lead to a longer suspension. Failing to take prompt action to restore driving privileges following a DUI arrest can also lengthen the period of time you may need to wait.
Contesting The Charges Against You
It’s a daunting thought to be without a driver’s license. While Chicago does have excellent public transportation, a suspended driver’s license can limit what jobs you may be able to perform and lead to restrictions in your living and family arrangements.
An attorney can help. This professional can represent you in an administrative hearing that may allow you to get your driving privileges back. Your lawyer will also seek to understand all of the circumstances of your DUI arrest and develop a defense on your behalf.
When it comes to contesting intoxicated driving cases, the stakes are too high to go it alone. An attorney will be by your side throughout the legal process, advising you of your options and working to achieve a case outcome that is favorable to you.
