Champaign–Urbana Multiple DUI Defense Lawyer

Third DUI Conviction (Class 2 Felony - Aggravated DUI)

• Prison Time: 3 to 7 years in state prison.
  • Extended Term: 7 to 14 years in prison is possible if aggravating factors exist.
  • BAC ≥ 0.16%: Mandatory 90 days jail AND $2,500 fine.
• Fines: Up to $25,000.
• License Revocation: Minimum 10 years.
• BAIID: Required.
• Probation: Possible, up to 4 years (but not always for high BAC or certain aggravating factors).

A fourth DUI is a Class 2 Felony, carrying 3 to 7 years in state prison, typically non-probationable, with potential fines up to $25,000 and a mandatory $5,000 fine if BAC is ≥0.16%, plus a lifelong license revocation. A fifth DUI is a Class 1 Felony, increasing prison time to 4 to 15 years, while a sixth or subsequent DUI becomes a Class X Felony, with 6 to 30 years in state prison; both carry similar severe fines and lifelong license revocation.

Aggravating Factors that Lead to Even Harsher Penalties

• DUI Causing Great Bodily Harm or Permanent Disfigurement:
  • First-Third DUI: 1 to 12 years in prison.
  • Fourth+ DUI: 3 to 14 years in prison.
• DUI Causing Death (Reckless Homicide):
  • Generally Class 3 Felony (2 to 5 years). Can become Class 2 Felony (3 to 14 years) or Class 1 Felony (4 to 15 years) with certain aggravating factors (e.g., multiple deaths, victim is protected official).
• Driving on a DUI-Related Suspended/Revoked License: This is a Class 4 Felony (1 to 3 years) for a first offense. Subsequent offenses with this factor are also felonies, escalating in severity.

The specific nuances of each charge and the possibility of severe enhancements highlight why a diligent multiple DUI lawyer in Champaign-Urbana is absolutely necessary.

Strategic Defense Approaches to Multiple DUI Charges in Illinois

Successfully defending against multiple DUI charges in Illinois requires a detailed understanding of legal procedures, forensic science, and negotiation, especially due to added complexities from prior convictions or injury reports.

• Challenging the Initial Traffic Stop's Legality: Argue the stop lacked reasonable suspicion, potentially leading to the suppression of all evidence gathered afterward.
• Disputing Field Sobriety Test (FST) Reliability: Challenge FST results by showing how external factors (weather, terrain), medical conditions, or improper administration affected performance, not intoxication.
• Contesting Chemical Test Accuracy (Breath or Blood): Investigate breathalyzer calibration, officer training, and procedural adherence (e.g., 20-minute observation period), or argue physiological factors caused inaccurate readings.
• Challenging "Actual Physical Control" / Lack of Evidence of Driving: Argue the prosecution cannot definitively prove you were operating or in control of the vehicle, especially if it was parked.
• Police Misconduct and Constitutional Violations: Investigate any violations of constitutional rights (e.g., illegal search, coerced confession, Miranda warnings) to suppress crucial evidence.
• Disputing Prior Convictions (for Repeat Offender Enhancements): Review records of prior DUIs for errors that could invalidate their use for enhancing current charges.
• Medical Conditions or Lawful Medication Use: Argue that symptoms of intoxication or chemical test results were mimicked by underlying medical conditions or lawfully prescribed medications.

Contact Johnson Law Group, LLC for Legal Representation

Our dedicated team is ready to support you with the experience and personalized advocacy needed to navigate your legal challenges. We are committed to restoring peace of mind and ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

If you’re facing multiple DUI charges in Champaign-Urbana, taking immediate action is crucial. Contact Johnson Law Group, LLC at (309) 565-8825 for a free consultation.