Facing DUI charges in DuPage County can be one of the most stressful experiences. A single mistake or misunderstanding could put your driver’s license, job, and even your freedom at risk. Illinois takes DUI offenses seriously, and the legal consequences can follow you for years, from license suspension to a permanent criminal record.
At Dohman Law, we understand how overwhelming this feels. Our DuPage County DUI lawyers provide compassionate, strategic legal representation to help you move forward with confidence. Whether it’s your first DUI or a repeat offense, our team will guide you through every step, protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Call Dohman Law today at (847) 616-9993 for your free initial consultation and let our experienced team start building your trusted defense.
Understanding DUI Charges in DuPage County
Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-501), driving under the influence (DUI) means operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or another intoxicating substance. A DUI charge can also result from having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the legal limit.
Here’s how the law defines it:
- 0.08% BAC or higher for standard drivers
- 0.04% BAC or higher for commercial drivers (CDL holders)
- 0.00% tolerance for drivers under 21
Types of DUI offenses:
- First-time DUI – usually a class A misdemeanor, but penalties can still include fines, probation, or license suspension.
- Repeat or aggravated DUI – may result in felony charges, prison time, and permanent license revocation.
- DUI with injury or property damage can lead to civil liability for personal injury or wrongful death claims.
- Underage DUI and CDL DUI – carry stricter standards and longer suspensions.
A DUI can also be linked to other criminal charges, such as reckless driving, driving without a valid driver’s license, or drug-induced homicide, all of which require skilled criminal defense lawyers to handle effectively.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest
If you’re pulled over for suspected DUI in DuPage County, here’s what typically happens:
- Traffic stop and field sobriety testing – Police may look for signs such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, or the smell of alcohol. You may be asked to perform a field sobriety test or submit to chemical testing, like a breathalyzer.
- Arrest and booking – If the officer believes you’re impaired, you’ll be taken into custody.
- Court dates – Your case will likely go through the DuPage County courthouse in Wheaton.
- Statutory summary suspension – Your driver’s license can be suspended automatically for refusing or failing chemical testing. You may request a hearing to challenge this driver’s license suspension with the Secretary of State.
DUI Penalties in DuPage County
The penalties for DUI convictions vary depending on your case, but even a first-time offense can have serious consequences.
Possible penalties include:
- Jail time or prison time
- Fines and court fees
- Probation or community service
- Mandatory alcohol education or DUI evaluation
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Ignition interlock device or breath alcohol ignition interlock device installation
Penalty enhancements may apply if:
- Your blood alcohol content was over 0.16%
- You had minor passengers in the vehicle
- You caused car accidents, property damage, or injuries
- You have prior criminal convictions or a third DUI conviction
These cases can escalate quickly, especially when combined with other criminal matters like reckless homicide, sexual offenses, or juvenile offenses.
License Suspension and Reinstatement
Losing your license can disrupt your entire life, from getting to work to taking care of your family. After a DUI arrest, you may face a statutory summary suspension before your case even goes to trial.
Here are your options:
- Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP) – Available for many first-time offenders. It allows limited driving if you install an ignition interlock device.
- Restricted Driving Permit (RDP) – For repeat offenders, allowing travel to work, school, or medical appointments.
Your attorney can represent you at a Secretary of State hearing to challenge your suspension or help you apply for reinstatement. The sooner you act, the better your chances of keeping your driving privileges.
Learn More: Illinois driver’s license reinstatement
How Our DuPage County DUI Lawyers Can Help
At Dohman Law, we combine deep knowledge of Illinois DUI law with compassion and dedication to each client’s case. We understand that behind every criminal offense is a person with a story, and we’re here to make sure your side is heard.
Here’s how our DuPage County DUI defense team can help:
- Investigate your arrest – We review police reports, field sobriety test results, and chemical testing procedures for errors.
- Challenge evidence – Breathalyzer and lab results are not always accurate; we’ll question every detail.
- Identify constitutional violations – If your rights were violated during the stop or arrest, we’ll fight to have evidence suppressed.
- Negotiate reduced charges – We seek reduced charges or alternative sentencing when possible.
- Represent you in court – Our attorneys know the DuPage courthouse, local judges, and prosecutors, giving you an advantage.
- Protect your record and future – Avoiding a criminal conviction can help protect your job, insurance rates, and peace of mind.
Our law firm has successfully defended hundreds of DUI charges and traffic offenses throughout DuPage County. We’ve helped clients facing aggravated DUI, juvenile defense, property crimes, and even personal injury or medical malpractice cases arising from semi-tractor-trailer accidents or traumatic brain injuries.
You can trust our experience, professionalism, and commitment to securing favorable outcomes in even the toughest criminal cases.
Learn More: How To Beat A DUI In Illinois
What To Do After a DUI Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for DUI, what you do next can make all the difference:
- Stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement.
- Do not admit guilt or discuss your case without your attorney.
- Request a hearing right away to contest your license suspension.
- Contact a trusted DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
Even if your case seems hopeless, there are often legal defenses that can help reduce or dismiss the charges.
Don’t Face a DUI Alone
A DUI charge can feel like the end of the road, but with the right legal counsel, it’s just the beginning of your recovery. The truth is, one mistake doesn’t have to define your future.
At Dohman Law, we stand by our clients from the moment of arrest to the final court decision. Our Chicago criminal defense lawyers are ready to fight for your freedom, protect your rights, and pursue every opportunity for a second chance.
Don’t face it alone. Contact Dohman Law today for a free consultation and start building your trusted defense. We’re here to help you move forward one step at a time.