Wheaton, Illinois Felony DUI Lawyer

Attorney for Felony Drunk Driving Charges in DuPage County

The penalties associated with driving under the influence (DUI) vary dramatically. A first-time DUI is typically a misdemeanor offense in Illinois. Someone who is convicted of a first-time DUI without aggravating circumstances can often avoid jail time.

However, some situations can cause a DUI arrest to result in felony charges. If you have been charged with a felony DUI, this charge has the potential to radically impact your life. You may be facing a significant jail sentence, a permanent criminal record, and lasting personal and professional consequences.

My name is Stephen A. Brundage and I am a DUI defense lawyer serving clients throughout the Chicagoland area. I know just how devastating a felony DUI conviction can be to your future. That is why I am committed to helping you build a tenacious defense against your drunk driving charges.

Aggravated DUI Charges in Naperville, Aurora, Lombard, Elgin, and the Neighboring Communities

In Illinois, most first-time and second-time DUI offenses are Class A misdemeanor offenses. If you are charged and convicted of a misdemeanor DUI, you may be fined up to $2,500 and sentenced to up to a year in jail. However, many first-time DUI offenders are able to avoid jail time by completing community service or participating in an alcohol and drug treatment program.

Felony DUI charges are penalized much more harshly than misdemeanor DUIs. If you have been convicted of DUI twice previously or there are certain aggravating circumstances present, a conviction for DUI can lead to substantial criminal penalties including a long jail sentence. Furthermore, having a felony on your record can dramatically limit your ability to find employment and housing. This is why it is crucial that you work with a skilled DUI defense lawyer.

In my nine years as a police officer, I learned a great deal of information about drunk driving arrests. I know how to spot improper field sobriety test procedures, faulty breathalyzer techniques, and other mistakes that can invalidate the evidence against a DUI suspect. I can meticulously evaluate your case and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case against you and use this information to build a strong defense on your behalf. I can also explain all of your legal options and help you choose the course of action that will likely yield the most favorable results. In some situations, it makes the most sense to take a case to trial. In other situations, it makes sense to negotiate a plea deal.

My experience in law enforcement combined with over three decades of practicing law allows me to draw upon a vast history of cases when advising my clients. I can help you figure out what to do. You do not have to face this daunting situation alone.

Circumstances That Can Lead to Felony Drunk Driving Charges in Illinois

An aggravated DUI is a felony crime in Illinois. Driving under the influence is considered an aggravated DUI if the defendant:

• Caused an accident resulting in significant injuries or death
• Has been convicted of two or more DUIs in the past
• Was driving a for-hire vehicle or a school bus carrying passengers
• Was transporting a child under age 16 and has previously been convicted of DUI involving a child passenger
• Did not have a valid driver's license or car insurance
• Has previously been convicted of an alcohol-related homicide offense

If you are convicted of aggravated DUI in Illinois, you may be sentenced to several years in prison. Let my team and I help you defend yourself against these charges. I may be able to get your sentence reduced to misdemeanor DUI or even get your charges dismissed entirely.

Call Today for a Confidential, Free Consultation

If you or a loved one were charged with aggravated DUI, contact Stephen A. Brundage, Attorney at Law to get the legal support you need. Call today at 630-260-9647 for a free, confidential consultation. I serve DUI defense clients in DuPage County, Kane County, Wheaton, Naperville, Carol Stream, Elgin, Downers Grove, Aurora, Lombard, and throughout the Chicago area.