Is a DUI a Felony in Illinois?

If you’ve been pulled over for drunk driving, you might already be worried about your case and about your future. You don’t want to be stuck with major penalties that will hurt you moving forward. Worse, you don’t want to deal with a felony on your record, which could impact you even more than a misdemeanor. 

Is a DUI a felony in Illinois? It’s not always a felony, but you may need to talk to your lawyer from Chicago Trusted Attorneys™ about your unique case. If you’re not prepared to fight felony charges, you may struggle to avoid a conviction that hurts your future. 

Aggravated DUI Charges

If you’re accused of a DUI, chances are good that you’re facing misdemeanor charges. However, if there are aggravating factors, or factors that make the situation worse, you might be fighting against a felony instead. 

For example, if you’re arrested for a DUI and had an accident where someone was injured during that case, you might be charged with aggravated DUI. Other instances where you might be charged with an aggravated DUI include having a minor in the car or reckless driving. 

Aggravated DUI charges are serious, since they can lead to a felony on your criminal record. Because of that, you may need a DUI lawyer on your Illinois case. 

Repeat Violations Add Up

If this isn’t your first violation, you may be in more trouble for your DUI case than you originally expected. For example, you might have been arrested for a typical DUI, but it was your fourth offense. If you don’t fight back to avoid a conviction, you could be facing more severe penalties than you may have with past DUI convictions. 

If the court sees that you’ve been charged with multiple DUIs, they may consider you a repeat offender, which could mean felony charges. You may need an Illinois DUI attorney to help you avoid those charges and the related penalties. 

Avoid Felony Charges with an Illinois DUI Lawyer

If you’ve been accused of a DUI, you might be facing misdemeanor charges. While it’s important to fight a misdemeanor, you might be relieved to at least not be facing felony charges. However, a DUI can be a felony in Illinois if certain factors are involved. 

Fortunately, a DUI lawyer from Chicago Trusted Attorneys™ can help you fight your DUI charges, whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony. They can help you find the right defense for your case so you can avoid penalties that could affect your future. 

If you’re ready to fight back, call 312-519-3171 or fill out the online contact form below for a consultation.