Kopp Law, Est. 2014, Defending Your Future

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Kopp Law Est. 2014 Defending Your Future
630-749-2919
John Randal Kopp

Defending Your Rights, Protecting Your Future

Common Questions About DUI: Answers From A DUI Defense Lawyer And Former Prosecutor

DUI charges are scary and stressful. When you’re facing the confusion and uncertainties of the criminal justice system, you may have many questions. I can answer them.

I’m John Kopp, a DUI defense lawyer in Geneva, and I’m here to navigate these turbulent waters with you. As a former prosecutor, I understand the Kane County justice system inside and out. I’ll put that knowledge to work for you.

Below, I’ve provided answers to common questions about DUI charges in Illinois. Please talk to me for more specific guidance on your case.

Can an attorney help dismiss or reduce DUI charges?

Yes, as your DUI attorney, I can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are a few ways I can help:

  • Investigating the circumstances of your arrest to identify any procedural errors or violations of your rights that could be grounds for dismissal
  • Building a strong defense by finding the strongest grounds to challenge the prosecution’s case
  • Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce your charges or penalties
  • Presenting a compelling case at trial to fight for a not-guilty verdict

Additionally, I can explore alternative sentencing options that might be available to you, such as the Kane County DUI Court, which provides structured treatment with the aim of reducing the likelihood of future offenses. My thorough understanding of DUI law and the local court system enables me to provide you with the most effective defense strategy tailored to your specific case.

Do I have to tell a police officer the truth during a DUI traffic stop?

You are required to provide basic information, such as your name and documentation requested by the officer. However, you have the right to remain silent about everything else. Politely decline to answer any further questions. Trying to talk yourself out of the situation will only backfire.

Are DUI charges/penalties different for someone with a commercial driver’s license (CDL)?

Yes. If you hold a CDL, the stakes are even higher as the penalties for DUI are more severe. Potential consequences include job loss and prolonged license suspension, which can profoundly impact your livelihood. It’s important to work with a skilled drunk driving lawyer who understands the nuances of CDLs.

Are field sobriety tests mandatory when stopped by the police in Illinois?

No. You can politely refuse field sobriety tests such as the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand or eye-tracking tests. These tests are often subjective and are not always accurate indicators of impairment. They’re not admissible in court, and they may give the police grounds to arrest you.

You can also refuse roadside portable breath tests (PBTs). These preliminary tests for measuring blood alcohol content (BAC) are less precise and not as rigorously calibrated as the breathalyzer machines located at police stations. Because of their lower accuracy, the results from PBTs are generally not admissible as evidence in court to prove your intoxication level. However, once arrested, refusing a breathalyzer test at the police station can lead to more severe consequences.

Invest In Yourself By Getting The Solid DUI Defense You Deserve

DUI charges can take a big toll on your life. As a proven DUI defense lawyer, I can help you protect your future, leveraging extensive legal knowledge and courtroom experience to unshackle you from the burdens of a DUI conviction. Get started today by sending me an email or calling my criminal defense law firm, Kopp Law, at 630-749-2919.