Aggressive Chicago DUI Defense And Traffic Ticket Attorney
If you have been arrested for a DUI or given a traffic ticket of any kind, don’t just plead guilty before talking to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Attorney Richard Fenbert founded his Chicago criminal defense firm to help protect the rights of his clients throughout Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will and the surrounding counties.
At Fenbert & Associates, he helps his clients protect their driving privileges and minimize the negative consequences of DUI charges and traffic violations.
You Don’t Have To Plead Guilty
In many cases, people think their only option is to plead guilty to a DUI or traffic charge. That simply isn’t true. Many of our clients are pleasantly surprised to have their charges reduced or dismissed after attorney Fenbert scrutinizes the facts of the case and presents a strong defense in court. While the result of every case will depend on the facts, a sampling of our client testimonials can give you an idea of the outstanding service and representation the firm provides.
Comprehensive DUI And Criminal Defense For Alcohol-Related Charges
DUI and alcohol-related cases are rarely as straightforward as prosecutors would have you believe. However, if you have been charged with drunk driving or another alcohol-related offense, you should understand that the prosecution will seek the harshest possible penalties. It is only fair that you have an aggressive DUI defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and future.
At Fenbert & Associates, attorney Fenbert has extensive experience in all types of DUI and alcohol-related cases. He represents clients who have been charged with the following:
- Misdemeanor DUI
- Felony DUI or aggravated DUI
- DUI with a BAC of .16 or higher
- DUI while transporting a child under age 16
- DUI in a school zone
- Driving under the influence of prescription drugs
- Driving under the influence of intoxicating compounds
- Public intoxication
- Underage DUI
- Minor in possession of alcohol
- Supplying alcohol to minors
- Selling alcohol to minors
- Reckless homicide or vehicular manslaughter
With DUI charges, it is important to understand what is at stake. The penalties for a first-time DUI conviction are severe, and the penalties increase with subsequent DUI convictions. You could be facing driver’s license suspension or revocation, heavy fines, an ignition interlock device, and even jail time. If you have a commercial driver’s license or otherwise need to drive for work, your livelihood may be threatened. Don’t let a DUI charge turn your life upside down, let an experienced DUI defense attorney help you fight them.
Answering Your Questions About DUI Charges
In his many years of practice, attorney Fenbert is often asked the same questions by clients facing DUI charges. Here, he answers some of the most commonly asked questions. For answers about your specific case, he offers a free consultation appointment.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer or chemical test during a DUI stop in Chicago?
In Chicago, while you have the right to refuse a breathalyzer or chemical test during a DUI stop, actually doing so carries serious consequences. Illinois enforces implied consent laws, meaning that by driving, you consent to such testing if you have been suspected of DUI. A refusal results in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license – one year for a first refusal and up to three years for subsequent refusals.
This suspension is separate from any penalties you might face if you are ultimately convicted of a DUI. Additionally, refusing a test may not prevent prosecution, as other evidence can be used against you. It’s important to weigh the immediate consequences of refusal, against the potential implications of submitting to the test, and consulting with a DUI attorney can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Illinois?
In Illinois, a DUI conviction can result in significant penalties, depending on whether or not you’ve had a subsequent DUI conviction. These include:
- First offense: For a first offense, you might face a suspension of your driver’s license for up to one year, fines up to $2,500, and possibly up to one year in jail.
- Second offense: A second DUI offense increases the severity, with a mandatory minimum jail time and a longer license suspension.
- Third offense: A third offense is a felony, carrying stiffer penalties, including longer imprisonment, higher fines, and a longer suspension or even revocation of your driving privileges. Additionally, there may be mandatory participation in a substance abuse program and the installation of an ignition interlock device.
It’s crucial to understand these penalties can vary based on the specifics of your case, including your blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether there were any aggravating factors, such as having a minor in the vehicle.
How can a DUI lawyer help me reduce my penalties in Illinois?
A DUI lawyer can be instrumental in reducing your charges or penalties in Illinois. They understand the legal system and can navigate complex DUI laws to identify any procedural errors or rights violations during your arrest. They can negotiate with prosecutors for lesser charges or alternative sentencing options, such as community service or alcohol education programs, which might replace harsher penalties.
An experienced defense attorney can also challenge the accuracy of breathalyzer or chemical tests and question the validity of the traffic stop itself. By presenting mitigating circumstances, such as your clean driving record or personal hardships, a DUI lawyer might persuade the court to impose more lenient penalties. Having a knowledgeable advocate on your side increases the chances of a favorable outcome.
Forward-Thinking Defense Against Traffic Tickets
Simply paying the fine and pleading guilty to a traffic violation could haunt you for years to come. Don’t plead guilty before talking to us. We can dig into the facts of your case and work to minimize the points on your license and the other negative consequences of a traffic ticket. In many cases, the penalties can be reduced or the ticket can be dismissed. We just need to look into the facts of your case to see what can be done to protect your rights and future.
We handle all types of traffic charges, including the following and more:
- Speeding
- Aggravated speeding
- Speeding in a construction zone
- Speeding in a school zone
- Driving without a license
- Driving under license suspension or revocation
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving
- Hit and run
- Vehicular assault
- Stop sign and stop light violations
- Turn signal violations
- Crosswalk violations
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to yield right-of-way
- Motorcycle violations
- Commercial driver violations
Many people who simply pay the fine and plead guilty to traffic charges later realize they made a big mistake. Don’t let that happen to you. Consult with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer to understand your full range of options.
Answering Your Questions About Traffic Tickets
Clients also have a lot of questions about defending against a traffic ticket. Here, attorney Fenbert answers some of the more frequently asked questions. For answers to questions about your specific case, he invites you to book a free consultation appointment.
What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in Illinois?
If you receive a traffic ticket in Illinois, it’s important to act promptly. Ignoring a ticket can lead to more fines or even a warrant for your arrest. First, read the ticket carefully to understand the alleged violation and the fine amount. You have the option to either pay the fine or contest the ticket in court. If you choose to contest, you must request a court date by the deadline indicated on the ticket.
Paying the fine is an admission of guilt and might add points to your driving record, potentially affecting your insurance rates. Consider consulting a traffic attorney who can advise on the strength of your case and represent you in court. They might identify defenses or negotiate for a reduced penalty.
What are the consequences of accumulating too many points on my driving record in Illinois?
In Illinois, accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to serious consequences. Each traffic violation adds a specific number of points to your record. If you accumulate too many points within a certain period, the state may suspend or revoke your driver’s license. For instance, accumulating 15 to 44 points can result in a two-month suspension, while 45 to 74 points might lead to a three-month suspension.
More severe point totals can lead to even longer suspensions or revocation. Having points on your record can also increase your insurance premiums and impact your driving privileges. It’s crucial to monitor your driving record and address any violations promptly, as reducing points or contesting tickets can help maintain your driving status and avoid further penalties.
Can I contest a traffic violation ticket in court in Illinois?
Yes, you can contest a traffic violation ticket in court in Illinois. To do so, you must plead not guilty and request a court hearing, typically by the date specified on your ticket. During the court hearing, you will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue your case before a judge. You can represent yourself or hire a traffic defense attorney to help build a strong case.
Potential defenses might include questioning the accuracy of the officer’s observations, the functionality of speed detection devices, or procedural errors. If successful, contesting the ticket can result in the dismissal of charges, avoiding fines, and preventing points from being added to your driving record.
Consult A Chicago DUI And Traffic Defense Attorney For Free
From his office in downtown Chicago, attorney Fenbert represents clients throughout Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will and the surrounding counties and can meet them wherever it is convenient. For a free consultation with a dedicated DUI and traffic defense lawyer, call Fenbert & Associates at 630-917-2051 or complete the firm’s online form.