If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois, it’s important to know what your next steps should be. The consequences of a DUI conviction can be serious and long-lasting, which is why you should consider contacting a DUI Lawyer New Lenox Illinois.
There are some things to think about when deciding whether or not to hire a lawyer and what that person might do for you. You need to consider whether you need an experienced and qualified attorney to help you navigate the legal process. The MacNeil Firm can help. Contact us today at (708) 218-0947 or (708) 218-0947 for a consultation.
DUI Penalties in Illinois
If you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois, you could face serious penalties if convicted.
There are other factors that can result in more severe penalties for a DUI. Your age, a higher BAC (above .16%), if there are passengers under 16 in the car, or if you’ve caused an accident can all affect the consequence you receive.
It can be tempting to try and handle a DUI arrest on your own. However, because there is great potential to affect your life long term, an experienced and passionate DUI lawyer New Lenox Illinois may be a better choice. You should not let one mistake ruin your life. Contact The MacNeil Firm today for a consultation and to protect your rights and your future.
Short term consequences of a DUI
Court dates, jail time, and community service hours can wreak havoc on your work schedule and put your job at risk. While your DUI conviction may not have anything to do with your ability to perform your job, many employers view it as a problem. In addition, if you’re not near public transportation or have alternate methods of travel, you may have difficulty getting to your job on time.
Long term consequences of a DUI
Many people are not aware that a DUI charge can result in a criminal conviction that will stay on your record. Most employers conduct criminal background checks before they hire job applicants.
A DUI felony or misdemeanor conviction will appear in a background check and could prevent you from securing a job. Background checks may also be triggered by college financial aid applications and admissions processes, and housing applications. Landlords can conduct background checks and a DUI conviction could stop you from getting a place to live.
In addition to the criminal record, you may have difficulty navigating life. Everyday tasks such as grocery shopping, participating in family activities, or going to social functions are going to be more difficult. If you have children, it can also affect them because they may not be able to rely on you to get them where they need to be. This lack of freedom can be very upsetting and frustrating.
Your attorney may get charges reduced or dismissed
Although you have the ability to represent yourself, your DUI lawyer New Lenox Illinois may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to reduce the charge to reckless driving. If there were errors with the testing or in the arrest process, charges may be dismissed.
An experienced attorney will be able to evaluate your case and look for such flaws. The MacNeil Firm may be able to help you get a reduced charge and avoid jail time. If we are able to get charges dismissed before trial, then that means they were dropped entirely and it’s like they never happened at all.
Contact The MacNeil Firm to talk to a DUI Lawyer New Lenox Illinois
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney can help minimize the impact of a DUI charge on your life. An attorney will be able to explain the charges and penalties, as well as the process you’ll need to go through if you are charged with driving under the influence. Your DUI Lawyer New Lenox Illinois will also be able to answer any questions you might have about your rights.
The criminal justice system is complicated, so having an experienced criminal defense attorney can help minimize the impact of a DUI charge on your life. If you’re facing charges, contact us today at (708) 218-0947 or (708) 218-0947.
