Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be charged as a felony generally in two situations: when there are prior convictions, and when there are aggravating circumstances.
Aggravating Circumstances
A felony charge may be brought after your drunk driving arrest if an allegation such as one of these is made:
- More than two prior DUI convictions
- A suspended or revoked license
- Resulting great bodily harm or permanent disability
- Prior conviction for reckless homicide
- No valid driver's license
- No valid insurance
- Driving in a school zone
- Driving a school bus with children on board
Penalties
A felony charge is one that can result in a year of more in prison. A misdemeanor is a less serious charge. Felony DUI charges can bring every severe punishment you can think of: hard prison time, license suspension or permanent loss of your driver's license, mandatory treatment, community service, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Defenses
When there are aggravating circumstances, it can be harder to challenge the validity of the officer's stopping you. Frequently the best strategy is negotiating a plea. However, if the potential penalties are severe and the case against you has holes in it, we are very experienced trial lawyers and will take your case to trial.
All six of our attorneys are former felony prosecutors. Armed with vast litigation experience and well-rounded knowledge of the criminal justice system, we provide aggressive criminal defense for individuals charged with state misdemeanor and felony crimes.
Consult With Felony DUI Defense Lawyers in DuPage County
To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us online to speak with a Wheaton, Illinois, personal injury attorney or in the Chicago area or locally call our office at 630-517-3279 or toll free at 888-349-0695. Our office is conveniently located near the courthouse in Wheaton, Illinois.
Evening and weekend appointments are available upon request.
We accept credit cards for all fees.
