Facing drunk driving charges can be stressful. In addition to the legal consequences, you could face problems at work and with your family.
When a DUI turns into an aggravated DUI, the consequences start to add up quickly. While some may be able to move on from a DUI, moving forward after an aggravated DUI can seem impossible.
Here’s what can make a DUI “aggravated” and the consequences you could face if you are convicted.
What makes it worse?
The term “aggravated” marks a more serious version of a similar offense. In the case of an Illinois DUI, it may be aggravated if there are additional factors to the DUI, such as:
- Driving people under age 18 in a school bus
- Driving without a valid license or liability insurance
- Driving passengers in a for-hire vehicle (such as for Uber or Lyft)
You could also face aggravated DUI charges if you have prior DUI or DUI-related convictions or are involved in a crash while driving drunk.
The consequences are stiff
Aggravated DUIs are classified as felonies. Depending on the situation of the aggravated DUI and the felony level, you could face serious consequences, such as:
- Lifetime revocation of driving privileges
- Vehicle registration suspension
- Fines
- Community service
- Probation
- Jail time
Additionally, you could also become ineligible to hold specific jobs if there is a felony conviction on your record. When you face charges like these, it is essential to talk to someone who can help you build your defense. Once your charges turn into a conviction, it can be difficult or impossible to undo the damage to your record.