How Does a DUI Conviction Affect My Future?
Being charged with Driving Under the Influence is a very serious situation that can have consequences not only today but well into the future.
Short-term repercussions
In Illinois, DUI charges are a serious offense, and the immediate consequences of a conviction are severe. It is financially damaging, with legal fees for DUI in Illinois averaging over $18,000. You will also face a one-year forfeiture of your license (two years if you are under 21) and the suspension of your vehicle registration. Depending on the severity of the situation, you may also face jail time, community service, and additional fines.
Unexpected long-term consequences
Having a DUI conviction will continue to affect your future in negative ways. For instance:
- You will have a permanent criminal record. You cannot expunge a DUI, and it will appear on all future background checks. This can impact:
- Future job opportunities
- Loan applications
- Divorce proceedings
- Child custody cases
- You could be vulnerable to civil lawsuits, particularly if your incident involved minors, personal injuries, or if you are a repeat DUI offender.
- You may have to participate in a drug treatment program or perform community service, at the expense of your work or personal time.
- You may have to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device in your vehicle, at your own expense, in order to regain driving privileges.
Being convicted of a DUI in Illinois will affect the rest of your life. If you find yourself having to fight a DUI charge, take it seriously and do what you can to avoid conviction.
