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DUI Lawyer Saline County, IL

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Last Updated: June 30, 2025

A DUI lawyer in Saline County, IL helps defend individuals facing charges for driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances. If you or someone you care about has been arrested for DUI in Saline County, IL, immediate action is critical. DUI charges in Illinois carry serious consequences — they can impact your freedom, your license, and your life for years.

The right DUI lawyer can help protect your rights, fight to keep you out of jail, and work to save your driver’s license.

Combs Waterkotte’s Saline County, IL criminal defense lawyers can step in immediately to protect you and begin building your defense. Reach out to us at (314) 900-HELP or submit our contact form now for a free and confidential case review.

What You’ll Learn on This Page

  • What DUI charges mean in Illinois and how they can happen even if your BAC is below 0.08%.
  • The penalties for first-time, repeat, and aggravated DUI charges. Each type of DUI charge carries its own potential penalties and long-term consequences.
  • What happens to your driver’s license after a DUI arrest and what you can do to challenge a statutory summary suspension.
  • The long-term consequences of a DUI conviction in Illinois. A DUI stays on your record permanently and can limit your options going forward.
  • Common DUI defense strategies, including defenses focused on traffic stops, breathalyzer accuracy, and police observations.
  • How a DUI lawyer in Saline County, IL can help you at every stage — from license suspension to courtroom defense.
  • What steps you should take immediately to protect yourself if you’ve been charged with DUI.
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    What is a DUI in Illinois?

    In Illinois, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) means operating a motor vehicle while your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any intoxicating substance. Illinois law also allows DUI charges if your BAC is 0.08% or more, regardless of whether you show obvious signs of impairment.

    Illinois DUI laws also apply to drugged driving, which can include both illegal drugs and prescription medications that affect your ability to drive safely.

    You can still be arrested for DUI in Illinois even if your BAC is under 0.08%. Any noticeable impairment from alcohol, drugs, or their combination can still lead to DUI charges in Illinois.

    Illinois DUI laws are found under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, which details the legal definition, prosecution process, and penalties for DUI in Illinois.

    Types of DUI Charges in Saline County, IL

    The type of DUI charge you face in Illinois depends on the specifics of your arrest, your prior record, and whether anyone was injured. Below are the most frequent DUI charges that drivers in Saline County, IL encounter.

    First-Time DUI (Class A Misdemeanor)

    A first DUI offense in Illinois is usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor. This charge carries potential penalties of up to one year in jail, fines reaching $2,500, at least a one-year license revocation, and mandatory alcohol programs.

    Aggravated DUI (Felony)

    A DUI can become a felony if certain aggravating factors are present. This can happen under conditions such as:

    • Being arrested for DUI while transporting a child under the age of 16.
    • Causing serious injury or death while driving under the influence.
    • Facing charges after accumulating three or more previous DUI offenses.
    • Operating a vehicle on a suspended or revoked license when arrested for DUI.

    Aggravated DUI charges carry much harsher penalties, including possible prison time and long-term loss of driving privileges.

    Repeat DUI Offenses

    A second or third DUI conviction can lead to much steeper penalties. Repeat DUI offenses often result in more jail time, lengthier license suspensions, and stricter court oversight.

    DUI with a Minor Passenger

    Having a child passenger in the vehicle during a DUI arrest can trigger enhanced punishments like mandatory community service, higher fines, and possible felony prosecution.

    DUI Causing Injury or Death

    If a DUI accident results in serious bodily injury, permanent disability, or death, you could face aggravated DUI charges and lengthy prison sentences.

    If a DUI accident results in serious bodily injury, permanent disability, or death, you could face aggravated DUI charges and lengthy prison sentences.

    Drug DUI

    Illinois law allows DUI charges if you drive under the influence of illegal drugs, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medications that impair your driving ability.

    CDL DUI

    If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Illinois, DUI penalties are more severe. The first CDL DUI offense can result in a one-year CDL disqualification, regardless of whether you were driving a commercial or personal vehicle. A second DUI results in lifetime disqualification. CDL drivers are also held to a stricter BAC limit of 0.04% when operating commercial vehicles.

    DUI Penalties in Saline County, IL

    Illinois DUI penalties change depending on whether it’s a first-time charge, a repeat offense, or a felony-level DUI. DUI convictions can result in jail time, financial penalties, license loss, and long-term effects on your insurance and driving history.

    Illinois DUI Penalties Overview

    DUI Offense Potential Penalties
    First DUI (Class A Misdemeanor) – Up to 1 year in jail
    – Fines up to $2,500
    – Minimum 1-year license revocation
    – Mandatory alcohol education or treatment
    – Possible installation of BAIID
    Second DUI – Minimum 5 days in jail or 240 hours of community service
    – Up to 1 year in jail
    – Minimum 5-year license revocation if within 20 years
    – Mandatory BAIID installation
    Aggravated DUI (Felony) – Prison time starting at 1 year
    – Longer license revocation periods
    – Substantially higher fines
    – Additional penalties if child passengers, injury, or death involved
    Statutory Summary Suspension – Automatic license suspension for 6 to 12 months
    – Can occur even before conviction
    – Can be challenged in a separate hearing
    CDL DUI – CDL disqualification for at least 1 year on first offense
    – Lifetime disqualification for second offense
    – BAC limit of 0.04% for commercial drivers

    Long-Term Consequences

    A DUI conviction stays on your record permanently in Illinois — it cannot be expunged or sealed.

    You may face increased insurance premiums, loss of employment, and long-term driver’s license restrictions.

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    Summary Suspension and License Reinstatement After a DUI in Saline County, IL

    If you are arrested for DUI in Illinois, your driver’s license can be automatically Statutorily Summarily Suspended — even without a conviction. The suspension happens automatically if you fail or refuse a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer or blood draw.

    Statutory Summary Suspension

    • Failed Test (BAC 0.08% or higher): Automatic 6-month license suspension.
    • Refused Test: Leads to an automatic suspension of your license for 12 months.
    • Commercial Drivers: Your CDL can be disqualified right away, even if the arrest happened while driving your personal vehicle.

    You have the right to challenge the summary suspension by filing a Petition to Rescind. The petition has to be submitted within 90 days of either the suspension notice or your initial court date, whichever is earlier.

    Your hearing must be set within 30 days of the petition being filed or your first court appearance, whichever gives more time. If the hearing does not occur within this time frame, the suspension may be automatically rescinded.

    License Reinstatement

    If your driver’s license is suspended because of a DUI arrest, a DUI lawyer can support you through the following actions:

    • Prepare and submit the necessary documents to fight the suspension.
    • Appear on your behalf at hearings to help restore your driving privileges.
    • Pursue a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP), which allows you to drive with a BAIID device installed (if necessary).
    • Guide you through the formal reinstatement process after your suspension period ends (if necessary).

    The sooner you act, the better your chances of minimizing the time you are without your driving privileges.

    DUI Defense Strategies in Illinois

    Getting arrested for DUI in Illinois does not mean you will be found guilty. A skilled DUI defense attorney can examine the facts of your case and build a strategy to challenge the charges and protect your future. Some of the most effective DUI defense strategies include:

    Challenging the Traffic Stop

    Law enforcement must have a legally valid basis to stop your vehicle. If the stop was made without reasonable suspicion, such as traffic errors or signs of impairment, the evidence collected may not be admissible.

    Questioning Field Sobriety Tests

    Field sobriety tests may produce unreliable results. Many factors, including medical conditions, nerves, uneven pavement, and weather conditions, can impact test performance. Your lawyer can argue that field sobriety test results do not prove actual impairment.

    Challenging Chemical Test Results

    Chemical tests like breathalyzers and blood draws must be performed correctly, regularly maintained, and handled by qualified personnel. Any mistakes in test administration, machine maintenance, or timing can lead to unreliable BAC results.

    Challenging Observations of Impairment

    Law enforcement reports typically list things like slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and the smell of alcohol as signs of impairment. Your attorney can present alternative explanations for these signs that are not related to impairment.

    Asserting Constitutional Violations

    When your rights are violated — such as through an illegal search, a failure to issue Miranda warnings, or an unlawful arrest — your attorney can ask the court to exclude that evidence through a motion to suppress.

    Negotiating for Reduced Charges

    Your DUI lawyer can also work to reduce the charges to something less serious like reckless driving or to negotiate sentencing that limits lasting consequences.

    How a DUI Lawyer in Saline County, IL Can Help You

    If you’re facing DUI charges in Saline County, IL, working with an experienced DUI lawyer can make a huge difference in how your case is resolved. Here’s what we can do for you right from the start:

    • Protect Your Rights Immediately: We get involved immediately to ensure your rights are protected at every step, from police questioning to court hearings.
    • Challenge the Evidence: We review every detail of your traffic stop, field sobriety tests, chemical testing procedures, and police reports to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
    • Handle All Court Filings and Deadlines: There are tight deadlines in DUI cases, especially for challenging license suspensions. We manage all filings to keep your case on track.
    • Fight to Save Your Driver’s License: We work to save your license by challenging suspensions and assisting with permits like the Monitoring Device Driving Permit or full reinstatement options.
    • Negotiate With Prosecutors: We negotiate with prosecutors to seek charge reductions, lighter penalties, or favorable plea deals when it benefits you.
    • Represent You at Trial: If a trial is necessary, we will vigorously defend you and aim to secure a not guilty verdict.
    • Flexible Payment Options: We understand the financial stress and offer payment flexibility to ensure you can get strong DUI representation when it matters most.

    Hiring a DUI lawyer gives you the strongest opportunity to protect your license, your freedom, and your future.

    What to Do If You Are Charged with a DUI in Saline County, IL

    What you do right after a DUI arrest in Saline County, IL can seriously impact your case and whether you can keep your license.

    Do Not Plead Guilty Right Away

    It’s common for people to think they must plead guilty after getting arrested for DUI, but this is not true. The government must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, just like any other criminal case. You should always consult a DUI lawyer before deciding how to move forward.

    Do Not Consent to Chemical Tests Until Police Get a Warrant

    Field sobriety and chemical tests are designed to give the state more evidence. The best way to keep that evidence out of the state’s hands is to refuse all tests unless and until a judge issues a warrant. Even though police may say your license will be suspended for a year if you refuse, our Saline County, IL DUI defense attorneys can challenge that suspension in court.

    Contact a DUI Lawyer Immediately

    Contacting a DUI lawyer right away gives you the best chance to fight the charges and save your license. Delays can reduce your chances of a successful defense.

    Preserve Any Evidence

    Keep any receipts, texts, or other evidence that could help your defense — including proof of your whereabouts, what you drank, or possible witnesses.

    Follow Your Lawyer’s Advice

    DUI cases can proceed quickly and deadlines come fast. You need to trust your DUI lawyer’s advice and carefully follow their recommendations throughout your case.

    Frequently Asked Questions About DUI in Illinois

    What happens if you get a DUI in Illinois?

    If you are arrested for DUI in Illinois, you face both a criminal charge and an automatic Statutory Summary Suspension of your driver’s license. The consequences of a first DUI may include jail, fines, losing your license, mandatory alcohol treatment, and BAIID installation.

    Can you still drive after a DUI in Illinois?

    Yes, in some cases you can continue driving after a DUI arrest by applying for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP), which allows you to drive with a BAIID. You can also challenge the summary suspension in court, but there are strict deadlines to do so.

    Can a DUI be dismissed in Illinois?

    Yes, it’s possible to have DUI charges dismissed if your lawyer successfully disputes the traffic stop, testing methods, or any constitutional issues. Every case is different, and an experienced DUI lawyer can evaluate whether dismissal is possible based on the facts of your case.

    How do I get my license back after a DUI in Illinois?

    Getting your license back depends on whether you were suspended or fully revoked. For suspensions, you may be eligible for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit or full reinstatement after completing the suspension period. Revoked licenses require a formal reinstatement process, including an alcohol and drug evaluation and possibly a Secretary of State hearing.

    Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for DUI Defense in Saline County, IL

    If you’re dealing with DUI charges in Saline County, IL, you need more than a lawyer — you need a team that knows how to fight for you, defend your license, and get results. This is why drivers across Saline County, IL choose Combs Waterkotte to protect them in DUI cases.

    Extensive DUI Defense Experience

    Our attorneys bring over 50 years of combined experience and more than 10,000 cases to the table, including successful DUI defenses throughout Saline County, IL. We know how local prosecutors, judges, and courts handle these charges, and we know how to position your case for the best possible outcome.

    Available When You Need Us

    Our team is available 24/7 to take your calls, provide timely updates, and support you every step of the way. Because we don’t charge hourly, you can contact us anytime without worrying about additional costs.

    Trial-Ready Defense

    If your DUI case heads to trial, we’re ready to fight hard for you in front of a judge or jury. We have a proven record of securing “not guilty” outcomes in serious cases and are always prepared to fight for you in trial when necessary.

    Local Knowledge

    Our team represents DUI clients in Saline County, IL and throughout Southern Illinois. We know how local DUI laws are enforced and how to adjust our defense strategies for the courts in each county.

    Flexible Payment Options

    A DUI arrest can bring financial stress that you may not have been prepared for. We offer flexible payment plans to make sure you can get the DUI defense you need when you need it.

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      Contact a DUI Lawyer in Saline County, IL Today

      If you or a family member have been charged with DUI in Saline County, IL, you need to take action right away. DUI cases move fast, and the consequences — like jail, losing your license, and a permanent record — can affect your life for years. You need a DUI defense attorney in Saline County, IL who can act fast and start protecting your rights.

      We are here to protect you at every stage — from your initial arrest to license reinstatement to courtroom defense. Contact us online now or call (314) 900-HELP to get the immediate support you deserve. We represent people facing DUI charges in Saline County, IL and throughout Southern Illinois.

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