What to do if you face DUI charges in Illinois

With the holidays fast approaching, it is wise to be prepared on what to do in case the police pull you over for drunk driving. You do not want a DUI conviction to ruin the season for you or others.

DUI charges are no minor matter. Even the most basic first-time offense can still lead to high fines, jail time and temporary loss of license. Avoid making further mistakes that can affect your future by knowing what to do in a DUI situation.

Do not incriminate yourself

While it is in your best interest to cooperate with police during a traffic stop, you have no legal obligation to answer incriminating questions, such as if you were drinking. Neither do you have to consent to any tests. Field sobriety tests are neither mandatory nor accurate. Chemical tests only provide the police with evidence against you. Yes, it will lead to an automatic license suspension, but this is a less severe consequence than the ones you may face under a DUI conviction. Furthermore, you can contest the suspension to try to get your driving privileges back.

Call a lawyer

Your best move is to speak to an Illinois DUI attorney right away for guidance relevant to your circumstances. A lawyer can help you craft your statement to police, advise you on whether or not to take a deal and review the incident to find holes in the prosecution’s case. Remember to be honest and communicative with your lawyer.

Obey the law

The worst thing you can do is continue to break the law. Do not drive under the influence again, or you will face harsher penalties and make it harder to defend your case. If you do not have a license anymore, then do not drive at all. Avoid any other criminal activity, no matter how minor, to prevent giving the prosecution more to use against you.