Geneva Criminal Defense Lawyer

Respected Criminal Defense Attorney Protecting Defendants in Geneva, IL

At The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola, we understand everyone makes mistakes while driving. We have all, at one time or another, failed to notice a stop sign or did not realize the light turned red. Sometimes even the best of us do not realize how much we have had to drink before we get in the car.

In many cases, these decisions result in traffic citations. One wrong driving decision that can result in penalties much worse than a traffic ticket is driving under the influence (DUI). A DUI conviction can have far-reaching consequences, impacting a person personally, professionally, and financially. If you have been charged with DUI, do not delay calling our office to speak with a Geneva criminal defense lawyer. We can provide representation in DUI cases, and we can also help defend against other types of criminal charges.

Illinois DUI Laws

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost half of all fatal crashes each year in Illinois involve an impaired driver. This has led the state to enact some of the harshest DUI laws in the country. It is also why law enforcement is so aggressive in cracking down on impaired drivers, resulting in approximately 22,000 people arrested each year for DUI. If you have a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher, you can be arrested for DUI. More than 90 percent of those arrested for DUI lose their driving privileges.

At The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola, our Geneva criminal defense lawyer knows how important it is for anyone charged with DUI to understand the penalties they may face if they are convicted. We also understand the potential impact a conviction can have on people's lives, which is why we fight every charge fiercely and advocate for the best possible outcome.

First-Offense DUI Conviction

A first-time DUI is charged as a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction means possible jail time of up to one year, loss of license for one year, and fines of up to $2,500. Under the state's zero tolerance policy, anyone under 21 who is convicted of DUI will lose their license for two years. Vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Second-Offense DUI Conviction

This is charged as a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction means mandatory jail time from five days up to a maximum of one year or 240 hours of community service, loss of license for five years, and fines of up to $2,500. Vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Third-Offense DUI Conviction

This is considered aggravated DUI and is charged as a Class 2 felony. A felony DUI conviction means possible jail time of three to five years, loss of license for 10 years, and fines of up to $25,000. Vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Fourth-Offense DUI Conviction

This is considered aggravated DUI and is charged as a Class 2 felony. A conviction means possible jail time of three to five years, loss of license for life, and fines of up to $25,000. Vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Fifth-Offense DUI Conviction

This is considered aggravated DUI and is charged as a Class 1 felony. A conviction means possible jail time of four to 15 years, loss of license for life, and fines of up to $25,000. Vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Sixth- or Subsequent-Offense DUI Conviction

This is considered aggravated DUI and is charged as a Class X felony. A conviction means possible jail time of six to 30 years, loss of license for life, and fines of up to $25,000. Vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Other Charges We Can Help You With

Although DUI is one of the most common reasons why people get arrested, at The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola, we have extensive experience defending clients against all types of charges, including:

• Assault
• Burglary
• Drug crimes
• Retail theft
• Sex crimes
• Theft
• Traffic violations
• Underage drinking

Contact Our Geneva, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested for DUI or any other crime, make sure you have a dedicated Geneva criminal defense lawyer advocating for you. Attorney Brian Mirandola is a former Assistant State's Attorney, and he knows the kinds of tactics prosecutors use to build their cases. Call The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola at 847-488-0889 to schedule a free and confidential consultation and learn about your legal options for defense. Contact us now.