Facing drunk driving charges can be terrifying. You know that if you are convicted, it could impact many areas of your life and livelihood.
When your charges are escalated to “aggravated,” the situation can feel hopeless. Aggravated charges can lead to severe and expensive consequences.
Here’s what can change a DUI into an aggravated DUI in Illinois.
Not your average DUI
Aggravated DUI charges mean that there was something about the situation that could make an ordinary DUI more severe. Circumstances that could lead to an aggravated DUI charge can include situations such as:
- Having prior alcohol-related offenses, such as reckless homicide
- Being convicted of three or more DUIs
- Causing bodily harm to a passenger under 16 years old
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license while intoxicated
These additional circumstances tend to lead courts and law enforcement to believe that the DUI was more dangerous or is becoming habitual. An aggravated DUI could lead to a severe penalty.
The consequences of an aggravated DUI
A Dui can come with expensive consequences and result in the loss of some of the freedoms and privileges you enjoy. Courts tend to take a more serious approach when it comes to an aggravated DUI.
An aggravated DUI conviction could mean that you could face substantial fines, longer jail times and suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. You should not face these charges alone. You should talk to an experienced professional about drunk driving charges, even if they are not aggravated.