Orland Park DUI Attorney

DUI Defense Lawyer for Drunk Driving Charges in Orland Park, IL

When you are facing charges of driving under the influence in the southwest suburbs, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. In Illinois, a DUI conviction remains on your record permanently, which means that any future DUI charges will result in more severe penalties. The stakes are high when facing a DUI charge—not only could you lose your ability to drive, but your job, your reputation, and your freedom could be at risk. License suspension or revocation is a real possibility, and fines for basic DUI offenses can reach up to $2,500. In some cases, you could even face jail time. This is why it is crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney who understands the complexities of DUI law and is committed to fighting for your rights.

At Issa Law, LLC, we have represented hundreds of clients who have been charged with DUI. Attorney Khaled Issa will examine every detail of your case, from the legality of the traffic stop to the accuracy of the tests administered. We are dedicated to doing the work necessary to build a strong defense and achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Winning DUI Cases

We have successfully won hearings before the court to rescind the suspension of our clients' driver's licenses. Additionally, we have had DUI charges against our clients dismissed because of improper or unlawful stops of the vehicle by police. We have also successfully won cases at trial, resulting in a verdict of "not guilty" on behalf of our clients. We will examine every aspect of your case and uncover for all possible issues that may help you avoid a conviction or reduce the potential penalties you may face. If you have been charged with a DUI, call our experienced Orland Park DUI attorney to get the legal representation you need.

Illinois DUI Laws

Illinois law states that a person may be charged with DUI if they operate a motor vehicle while they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08%, and a driver in Cook County, Will County, or throughout the state of Illinois who exceeds the legal limit may be arrested for DUI. People who are charged with intoxicated driving will be face serious penalties if they are convicted, even for a first DUI offense.

Second or Subsequent DUI Offense

If you are facing multiple DUI charges, the consequences can be even more severe. In Illinois, a second DUI conviction can result in the revocation of your driver's license for at least one year, along with other penalties. It is critical to have an experienced southwest suburban DUI attorney who understands the intricacies of DUI law and who can challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the procedures followed by the police, and the evidence presented against you. We will fight to protect your driving privileges and work to avoid jail time.

DUI by Drugs

Driving under the influence is not limited to alcohol; in Illinois, it is also illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, including illegal controlled substances, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medicines. A DUI charge related to drug use (commonly referred to as drugged driving) carries the same penalties as an alcohol-related DUI. Illinois law has a zero-tolerance policy for driving with any trace of a controlled substance in the driver's system, which means that even a small amount of an illegal drug can result in a DUI charge, regardless of whether the driver appears impaired.

CDL DUI

For commercial drivers, a DUI charge carries even more significant consequences. A DUI conviction for a driver holding a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) not only impacts their ability to drive commercially but also affects their livelihood. Illinois imposes strict penalties for CDL holders, including a mandatory disqualification of the CDL for at least one year for a first-time DUI offense. This disqualification applies even if the DUI occurred while driving a personal vehicle. Subsequent offenses can lead to a lifetime ban from holding a CDL. Defending against a CDL DUI charge requires a thorough understanding of both DUI laws and commercial driving regulations, making it essential to have a skilled attorney who can navigate these complexities.

Underage DUI

Illinois has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. For drivers under the age of 21, any amount of alcohol in their system can lead to DUI charges. Underage DUI penalties can include license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, and fines. Additionally, an underage DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on a minor's educational and employment opportunities. At Issa Law, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting the futures of young drivers by challenging the evidence against them and seeking alternatives to a conviction that could impact their lives for years to come.

Out of State DUI

An out-of-state DUI charge can be particularly complex due to the interaction between Illinois law and the laws of the state where the offense occurred. If you are an Illinois resident who has been charged with DUI in another state, or if you are an out-of-state driver charged with DUI in Illinois, it is important to understand how these charges can affect your driving privileges in both states. Our firm has experience handling out-of-state DUI cases and can help you navigate the legal challenges posed by these situations.

Aggravated DUI

Certain factors or circumstances can lead to enhanced charges and penalties for people charged with DUI. Examples of aggravated DUI include driving under the influence while transporting a child under the age of 16 or causing an accident that results in serious injury or death. Aggravated DUI is charged as a felony, with penalties that can include extended prison sentences, hefty fines, and permanent revocation of driving privileges. Defending against an aggravated DUI charge requires a comprehensive legal strategy that addresses all aspects of the case.

DUI With Injury

A DUI charge becomes significantly more serious when it involves an accident that results in injury to another person. In Illinois, DUI with injury is often prosecuted as an aggravated DUI, which can lead to felony charges. The emotional and financial impact of these charges can be devastating. Our firm is experienced in defending clients charged with DUI resulting in serious injuries, and we work diligently to investigate the circumstances of the accident, challenge the evidence, and advocate for the best possible outcome.

Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are commonly used by law enforcement officers during traffic stops to determine whether a driver is impaired. These tests are meant to assess a driver's coordination, balance, and eye movements. However, they can be influenced by factors such as medical conditions, fatigue, or even nervousness. Our firm is skilled at challenging the results of field sobriety tests, questioning their accuracy, and arguing that they should not be used as evidence of impairment. By casting doubt on the reliability of these tests, we can strengthen your defense against DUI charges.

FAQs About DUI Cases in Illinois

1. How much does a DUI lawyer cost in Illinois?

The cost of hiring a DUI lawyer in Illinois can vary widely depending on the complexity of your case, the attorney's experience, and the amount of time involved. At Issa Law, LLC, fees typically range from $2,500 to $25,000. This range reflects the varying levels of work required, from straightforward cases to more complex legal matters. We provide personalized consultations to ensure that you understand the cost structure based on your specific situation.

2. How can I get a DUI dismissed in Illinois?

While no outcome can be guaranteed, there are several potential avenues for having a DUI charge dismissed in Illinois. These include proving that the traffic stop was unlawful, challenging the administration of field sobriety tests, or identifying errors with breathalyzer results. Attorney Kal Issa specializes in analyzing every aspect of your case to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution's case and pursue the best possible result.

3. What is the best-case scenario for a first-time DUI in Illinois?

For first-time DUI offenders, the best-case scenario often involves having the charges reduced or even dismissed. If a conviction is inevitable, alternatives like court supervision or participation in a diversion program may be available, helping to avoid a permanent criminal record. Issa Law, LLC works closely with clients to explore all available options and secure the most favorable outcome.

4. Will I go to jail for my first DUI in Illinois?

In Illinois, first-time DUI offenders typically do not face jail time unless there are aggravating factors, such as a high BAC or involvement in an accident. The usual penalties include fines, license suspension, or court supervision. Kal Issa will work to minimize the penalties and ensure the best possible resolution without jail time.

Contact Our Orland Park DUI Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested and charged with DUI, Orland Park DUI defense attorney Khaled Issa can help you defend against a conviction. He will work to help you avoid a conviction and regain your driving privileges as quickly as possible. To set up a consultation with an attorney who can help you fight DUI charges, please contact Issa Law, LLC today at 708-966-2408.