Throughout the state of Illinois, including for drivers stopped in the Wheaton area, a DUI is a very serious charge. Specific issues around the reason for the stop, as well as the number of prior DUI charges on the driver’s record can even lead to additional or increased charges.
There is no question that driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for the driver, passengers in the vehicle, and other drivers, pedestrians and cyclists on the road. However, being charged with a DUI does require the state to prove the case and having an experienced DUI lawyer can help to prevent additional charges and penalties by providing a well-developed, aggressive defense to the charges.
Alcohol and Marijuana Levels
All adult drivers are considered impaired if they have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher, or a THC level of 5 nanograms or more per one milliliter of whole blood. If other body fluids are tested for THC, the legal limit is less than ten nanograms per one milliliter of the body fluid. For individuals tested for the presence of marijuana, a valid medical authorization and registration with the Illinois Department of Public Health must also be produced.
If there is a concern about the transport of alcohol or medical marijuana in the vehicle, additional charges can be added to the DUI. Working with a DUI lawyer can help to reduce the risk of these additional charges, particularly on a first offense without an accident, injury, or property damage.
Issues to Consider
After a DUI arrest in Wheaton, talking to an experienced DUI lawyer as soon as possible is essential. The attorney needs to hear how the arrest occurred, what type of field sobriety test was used, if there was probable cause for the stop and where the stop occurred.
It is not uncommon for police officers to fail to follow proper procedures when making a DUI arrest. A specialized DUI attorney can identify these irregularities, which can be used to negotiate lesser charges or to avoid additional charges to the DUI.
If you are arrested for DUI in or around Wheaton, call on the DUI lawyers at Driver Defense Team.
