Driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois is already a serious offense, but when a child under 16 is in the vehicle, penalties escalate dramatically to protect vulnerable passengers.
Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are a common tool used by law enforcement in Illinois to determine impairment during DUI stops, but their validity and reliability are often contested in court.
Implied consent laws in Illinois require drivers to submit to chemical tests for alcohol or drugs if arrested for DUI, and refusing can trigger severe penalties even without a conviction.
Driving under the influence of prescription medications in Illinois is treated as seriously as alcohol or illegal drug DUIs, with penalties that can devastate your life if not defended properly.
A DUI in Illinois is typically a Class A misdemeanor for first-time offenders, but certain aggravating factors can elevate it to a felony, bringing harsher penalties and long-term consequences.
Driving under the influence of prescription medications in Illinois can lead to DUI charges if the drugs impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely, even if taken as prescribed.
Cannabis-related DUI charges in Illinois have surged since legalization, presenting unique challenges due to the differences in proving impairment compared to alcohol.
Underage DUI charges in Illinois carry strict zero tolerance policies, making even minimal impairment a serious offense with lasting effects on young drivers' records and privileges.
A DUI charge in Illinois becomes significantly more serious when a child is in the vehicle, elevating it to an aggravated offense with harsh penalties and long-term repercussions.