Skokie, Illinois DUI Defense Lawyer

Aggressive DUI Defense Attorney Representing Clients in Skokie

Getting pulled over and arrested for DUI can be alarming. Oftentimes, defendants in these cases do not know the full extent of their rights, leading to easily preventable mistakes that hurt their cases. If you have been charged with driving under the influence, get in contact with a Skokie, Illinois DUI defense attorney who understands the law and can advocate for you in court.

At Moretti Law, P.C., we have earned hundreds of 5-star reviews for our strong advocacy in the courtroom and thorough investigations in criminal defense cases. When you work with our firm, you will receive one-on-one legal advice and counsel from Attorney Emilio Moretti.

Understanding a DUI Charge

A DUI charge in Illinois can happen when a driver is accused of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances. Many people think DUI charges only apply when someone is obviously drunk, but that is not true. A person can be arrested after having only a few drinks if an officer believes that alcohol affected his or her ability to drive safely. A driver can also face charges based on the alleged use of prescription medication, cannabis, or illegal drugs.

Illinois also has a legal blood alcohol concentration limit of 0.08 percent for most adult drivers. If chemical testing shows a BAC at or above that limit, prosecutors may use that result as strong evidence. Even so, a charge is not the same as a conviction. The state still has to prove its case, and that process can involve many questions about the traffic stop, the arrest, and the evidence gathered by police.

Is Jail Time a Possibility for a DUI in Illinois?

Even a first DUI can carry the possibility of time in jail under certain circumstances. As a Class A misdemeanor, a first offense DUI can carry a sentence of up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A conviction can also lead to court supervision in some cases, along with conditions such as alcohol treatment, community service, and a mandatory suspension of driving privileges.

The stakes are higher when a case involves a high BAC, a child passenger, an accident, bodily harm, or a prior DUI conviction. Repeat offenses are treated more harshly, and felony DUI charges may lead to far more serious penalties. A person who is convicted may face not only jail or prison exposure, but also a long period without driving privileges.

Are DUI Tests Always Accurate?

DUI tests are not always accurate. Police officers often rely on field sobriety tests, breath testing, and sometimes blood or urine testing. Each of these methods has limits. Field sobriety tests are especially subjective. Fatigue, anxiety, weather, poor balance, medical conditions, age, and uneven pavement can all affect how a person performs.

Breath tests can also be challenged. A machine must be properly maintained, calibrated, and used correctly. Mouth alcohol, certain health conditions, and mistakes in administration may affect the result. Blood testing is often viewed as more reliable, but it is still not beyond question. Problems with collection, storage, labeling, or chain of custody can raise serious concerns.

In many DUI cases, the defense is not about proving that a client did nothing wrong. It is about forcing the prosecution to prove guilt with reliable evidence. When the evidence is weak, inconsistent, or improperly obtained, the prosecution's argument can weaken under scrutiny.

Contact a Skokie, IL DUI Defense Attorney

A DUI arrest can put your license, record, and reputation at risk. At Moretti Law, P.C., we help you decide how to move forward. Call 847-423-0436 or contact our Skokie, Illinois DUI defense lawyer to schedule a free consultation.