Wheaton Attorneys for DUI Defense
Lawyers for Charges of Driving Under the Influence in DuPage County
Every year, law enforcement officers in Illinois conduct thousands of traffic stops that lead to drivers being arrested on charges of driving under the influence (DUI). If you have been arrested for allegedly driving drunk, your life is about to change. A conviction on DUI charges can result in hefty fines, court-ordered community service, probation, and depending on the circumstances, a jail or prison sentence. Your ability to drive legally could also be restricted, even if you are not ultimately convicted.
At McSwain Nagle Giese & Rapp, P.C., our skilled attorneys recognize the challenges you may be facing if you are dealing with DUI charges in Illinois. We understand what is at stake and how important it is for you to avoid a conviction if possible. With this in mind, we will do everything we can to ensure that your rights and best interests are fully protected, no matter how serious the charges against you may be.
Downers Grove DUI Counsel
Drunk driving is dangerous for everyone involved. In addition to the risks of causing an accident, driving under the influence also puts you in danger of being arrested, charged, convicted, and sentenced. The criminal defense team at our firm includes a former prosecutor with the DuPage County State's Attorney's office, so we are well aware of the techniques and tactics that prosecutors may use in alleged drunk driving cases. We also know how to counter such strategies and to assist you in obtaining the best possible outcome for your specific circumstances.
If you or a loved one has been arrested on DUI charges, it is critical to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. You should not answer any questions or sign any paperwork without an attorney at your side. Without an attorney present to protect your rights, you could inadvertently give information to the police that prosecutors will use later. Incriminating statements can be very difficult to overcome as your case proceeds. Before you do anything else, call our firm right away.
Your lawyer can also assist you in managing the administrative consequences associated with refusing or failing a breath or blood test after your arrest. According to the law in Illinois, any person who is arrested on DUI charges must submit to blood-alcohol content (BAC) chemical testing. Refusing or failing such a test will lead to the automatic suspension of your driver's license. We will explain your available options for keeping your license and staying on the road legally.
DUI Defense Lawyers in Naperville and Downers Grove
At McSwain Nagle Giese & Rapp, P.C., we are equipped to help you face any type of DUI-related matter, including:
- Misdemeanor DUI: Most DUI charges for first or second offenses are typically misdemeanors unless aggravating factors elevate the charges
- Drugged driving: DUI charges are possible for driving while impaired by marijuana, cocaine, and other illegal drugs, as well as by prescription drugs
- DUI causing property damage or bodily injury
- Felony DUI: In Illinois, a third or subsequent DUI is automatically prosecuted as a felony charge for aggravated DUI. You could also face felony charges for a first or second offense with aggravating factors.
- Underage DUI: Illinois uses a Zero Tolerance Law regarding underage drinking and driving. A driver under 21 with any trace of alcohol in his or her system could face charges for underage DUI.
- DUI charges for a driver who is under the legal drinking age: Illinois' Zero Tolerance law means that any trace of alcohol in an underage driver's system could lead to underage DUI charges.
The severity and type of charges, as well as the potential penalties for a conviction, are based on the details of your situation. Our team will sit down with you to review your circumstances and explain your available options. We will ensure that you have the information and guidance you need to make informed decisions about the direction of your case.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you would like to learn more about McSwain Nagle Giese & Rapp, P.C. and how we approach DUI cases, contact our office. Call 630-407-1200 for your free, no-obligation consultation today. We represent clients in Wheaton, Naperville, Downers Grove, Addison, DuPage County, and the neighboring communities.