Understand the allegation.
Illinois DUI is generally a Class A misdemeanor unless an enhancement makes it aggravated DUI, a felony. A first arrest is not a guarantee of misdemeanor treatment.
What a defense review may consider.
- The reason for the traffic stop and what the officer observed
- Body-camera or dash-camera footage and field sobriety testing
- Chemical test procedures, results, and driving-privilege notices
Prepare for the next step.
Bring the citation, court notice, and any paperwork about a license suspension. Ask an attorney to review deadlines promptly; the criminal case and license process are separate.
The facts, your history, the available evidence, and the exact charge affect your options. These guides provide general information. An attorney must review the actual case before recommending a course of action.
625 ILCS 5/11-501 — Illinois General Assembly ↗
This guide covers misdemeanor allegations. Selected felony matters are considered separately. Statutes contain exceptions and enhancements. General information reviewed October 11, 2026; an attorney should verify current law as applied to your case.