What Are the Steps in a Typical DUI Case?

On Behalf of Madelyn Daley & Associates   |   Sep 6, 2024   |   DUI

Facing DUI charges in Illinois is a scary and stressful experience, especially if you don’t know what you’re in for. But it’s important to remember that help is available and you don’t have to face these charges alone. The team at Madelyn Daley & Associates has over 20 years of combined legal experience, and we can explain the legal process and aggressively protect your rights.

The Outline of an Illinois DUI Case

Here’s what happens after the police arrest you on suspicion of DUI:

  • Formal Blood or Breath Test: After your arrest, the police will conduct a formal breath or blood test to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) or check for drugs in your system.
  • Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, which usually takes place within a few days of your arrest. At the arraignment, the judge will read the charges against you, and you’ll enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If the plea is not guilty, the case will be scheduled for trial.
  • Pretrial Motions and Hearings: Your attorney may file pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charges against you.
  • Plea Bargaining: In many cases, the prosecution and your attorney may negotiate a plea deal to reduce your charges or the penalties you might face. This step can occur at any point before the trial.
  • Trial: If your case goes to trial, both sides will present evidence and argue their case. A jury will then decide your guilt or innocence.
  • Sentencing: If you’re found guilty or plead guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include fines, a driver’s license suspension, probation, or jail time.
  • Appeal: If you believe there was an error in your trial, you can appeal the decision to a higher court.

How Our Belleville, IL, DUI Defense Attorneys Can Help You

At Madelyn Daley & Associates, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with facing DUI charges. Our team can support you through every step of the legal process. We’ll start by thoroughly reviewing your case, examining the details of your arrest, and checking to see whether the police or prosecutors violated your rights. We’ll challenge the validity of the breath or blood test results, scrutinize the procedures the police used, and identify any errors in the testing process.

Our attorneys are skilled in negotiating with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or penalties. We’ll explore every defense strategy, such as questioning the legality of the traffic stop, disputing the officer’s observations, and presenting alternative explanations for your behavior or BAC levels. If your case goes to trial, we will aggressively advocate on your behalf, presenting a strong defense and highlighting any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that means a dismissal of charges, a favorable plea deal, or a reduced sentence. Trust Madelyn Daley & Associates to provide the dedicated, knowledgeable representation you need and deserve. Contact us online today or call (618) 233-8885 for a free consultation.