It is important to consult with an attorney before going to court, even if you intend to plead guilty. A lawyer can explain the consequences of your case and identify legal defenses and challenge evidence. An experienced attorney may be able to have your charges reduced, prevent a conviction and negotiate a lesser sentence. Depending on the matter an attorney may even be able to have your entire case dismissed.

We primarily handle DUI, criminal defense, driver’s license reinstatement, traffic ticket defense and criminal record expungement and sealing. For a detailed list of cases we handle, please visit our Practice Areas page.

We represent clients in the greater Chicagoland area, specifically Cook and Lake Counties. This includes Chicago, Bridgeview, Maywood, Markham, Rolling Meadows, Skokie, Waukegan, Mundelein, Park City, and Round Lake Beach.

In Illinois, DUI lawyer costs typically range from $2,500 to $10,000 or more, with the average for a first-time offense being between $1,500 and $5,000. The final cost depends on factors such as attorney experience, case complexity, location, and the fee structure (hourly or flat fee). 

Cost breakdown and factors:

  • Average first-time DUI: Expect to pay approximately $1,500 to $5,000 for a first-time offense. 

  • Repeat Offenses: Costs increase for subsequent DUIs, potentially ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 or higher, depending on the severity. 

  • Total Costs: For a more comprehensive overview, the total costs can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, when you include fines, court costs, fees, mandatory DUI education and treatment programs and potential insurance increases. 

Under Illinois law, A first-time DUI Offense is a Class A misdemeanor, which is the most serious type of misdemeanor. However, depending on aggravating circumstances such as accidents, injuries, or having a minor in the car, the penalties can vary. Possible criminal penalties include:

  • Jail Time: A first DUI conviction in Illinois carries a maximum jail sentence of up to 1 year. While typically first-time offenders do not receive jail time, it is still a possibility in light of aggravating factors.

  • Fines and Court Costs: The minimum fine for a first DUI conviction is $500 but total costs, which include court fees and other expenses, can exceed $2,500. 

  • Community Service: If your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.16% or higher, the court will impose a mandatory minimum of 100 hours of community service in addition to other penalties.

  • DUI Treatment Programs: First-time DUI offenders must undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation and may be required to complete an alcohol, education or treatment program. 

  • Other Conditions: Additional requirements can include attending Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, MADD Victim Impact Panels or making restitution payments if an accident was involved.

  • Misdemeanor Conviction Remains on your Record: A DUI conviction remains on your record and cannot be expunged. This conviction can be used to enhance penalties for any future DUIs.

In addition to criminal penalties, a first DUI conviction has significant driver’s license, consequences which include:

  • Statutory Summary Suspension: This is an administrative penalty imposed by the Illinois Secretary of State. If you fail a breath test, your driver’s license is automatically suspended for six months. If you refuse a breath test, your driver’s license is automatically suspended for one year. This automatic license suspension will take effect 46 days after your arrest, unless overturned.

  • License Revocation: Upon conviction, your driver’s license is revoked for one year. Unlike a suspension, a revocation requires a formal reinstatement proceeding before you can legally drive again.

  • Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP): First-time offenders may be eligible for an MDDP, which allows them to drive with a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) installed in their vehicle.   

  • Hardship License: In some cases, individuals may apply for a hardship permit for purposes of driving to work, school, or medical reasons.

A conviction for a second DUI offense in Illinois or another jurisdiction can impose penalties that include:

     • A maximum of one year in jail.

     • A minimum of five days of incarceration or 240 hours of community service,

     • A maximum fine of $2,500.

     • A mandatory minimum fine of $1,250 and two days in jail for a BAC of 0.16% or higher.

     • A mandatory Revocation of driving privileges for a minimum of five years if the second offense occurs within 20 years of the first.

Additional penalties may apply if the driver is accused of causing a car accident which results in serious injury or death, or has a child in the vehicle at the time of the offense. Other factors can also lead to felony DUI enhancement.

The Court may also order offenders to install ignition interlock devices on their vehicles or submit to drug/alcohol evaluation and recommended treatment. A second DUI conviction can also increase a driver’s car insurance premiums.

A third DUI offense has serious consequences for an Illinois driver. In Illinois, third DUI driving offenses are classified as felonies and an offender may face imprisonment for up to 7 years and high fines as well as license revocation.

In Illinois, a third DUI conviction within five years is considered a class 2 felony which can impose penalties such as:

     • A minimum 10-year revocation of driving privileges.

     • A minimum of three to seven years in prison.

     • A maximum fine of $25,000.

     • A mandatory minimum fine of $2,500 and 90 days in jail for a BAC of 0.16% or higher.