DUI with Great Bodily Harm Defense Attorney in Skokie

Understanding Aggravated DUI with Great Bodily Harm in Skokie, Illinois

Skokie, Illinois, a bustling village located just north of Chicago, is known for its close-knit community and vibrant culture. While Skokie offers a safe and welcoming environment for its residents, incidents involving serious traffic violations like aggravated DUI with great bodily harm can lead to life-altering legal consequences. The severity of this charge underscores the importance of understanding Illinois law and seeking qualified legal defense if you are accused of such an offense.

Illinois DUI Laws: A Focus on Aggravated DUI with Great Bodily Harm

Under Illinois law, driving under the influence is governed by 625 ILCS 5/11-501, which prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any intoxicating substance. A DUI charge is elevated to an aggravated DUI when certain circumstances increase the severity of the offense. An aggravated DUI with great bodily harm occurs when a person operating a motor vehicle under the influence causes an accident resulting in significant injuries to another individual.

This offense is a Class 4 felony or higher, depending on the specifics of the case. The penalties reflect the gravity of causing physical harm while impaired. A conviction carries:

• A prison sentence ranging from one to twelve years.
• Fines that may exceed $25,000.
• Restitution to victims to cover medical expenses and damages.
• A mandatory license suspension or revocation.
• Enrollment in mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs.

Illinois courts take aggravated DUI cases seriously, and the long-term repercussions of a conviction include a permanent criminal record that can affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, and housing prospects.

The Legal Process for Aggravated DUI Cases in Illinois

The legal process begins with the investigation of the accident. In Skokie, law enforcement officers respond to the scene, collect evidence, and determine whether impairment was a contributing factor. This often involves conducting field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or blood tests. If the results indicate impairment, the driver will be arrested and charged with DUI.

Once charges are filed, the case moves into the court system. The defendant will attend an arraignment where they enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The pretrial phase follows, during which the defense attorney examines the evidence, files motions to suppress inadmissible evidence, and negotiates with prosecutors if appropriate. If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Evidence Used in Aggravated DUI Cases

Prosecutors rely on a variety of evidence to build their case against individuals accused of aggravated DUI with great bodily harm. This evidence typically includes:

• Chemical tests: Results from breath, blood, or urine tests that measure the level of alcohol or drugs in the driver’s system.
• Field sobriety tests: Observations from tests conducted at the scene of the accident to evaluate impairment.
• Witness statements: Accounts from passengers, other drivers, or bystanders.
• Police reports: Documentation of the scene, including observations of the driver’s behavior, injuries, and damage to vehicles.
• Accident reconstruction: Expert analysis of how the collision occurred and who was at fault.

A skilled defense attorney will scrutinize this evidence to identify inconsistencies, procedural errors, or other factors that may weaken the prosecution’s case.

Defending Against Aggravated DUI Charges

Several legal defenses may be available in an aggravated DUI case. Common strategies include challenging the validity of chemical tests, demonstrating that the injuries were not caused by the defendant’s actions, and arguing that law enforcement violated the defendant’s constitutional rights during the investigation. Each case is unique, and a tailored defense strategy is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Call Us For Your Free Consultation

If you’re facing an aggravated DUI charge in Skokie, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for skilled legal assistance. With decades of experience and a commitment to protecting your rights, we offer a free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. We serve clients in Skokie, and throughout Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County in Illinois. Let us help you navigate the legal system and fight for your future.