This is the next post in my series on the handling of Peoria, Illinois criminal cases which involve a child being placed in danger. My last article discussed what happens in a child endangerment case. It is vital that one be mindful of the impact that such charges can have on family law proceedings, in addition to the potential criminal penalties. An attorney will work to ensure that all aspects of your rights are protected. In this article I will address the question of “can I go to jail for DUI child endangerment?” While the answer to this question is “yes,” there is additional information which must be discussed. If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer.
Illinois residents may face felony charges for driving while intoxicated with a child in the car
Driving while intoxicated with a child in the car can result in two separate charges against an Illinois resident. First, the accused individual may find themselves charged with an “aggravated DUI,” which is worse than a standard-drunk driving charge. An aggravated DUI will be a Class 4 felony, which carries a sentence of one to three years in prison. The individual may also be charged with child endangerment, which is a misdemeanor. These laws mean that an individual who finds themselves in such a situation can not only go to jail, but they face a state prison sentence as well. Typically, a defendant will be eligible for probation. Whether or not probation will be granted is within the discretion of the judge.
If a defendant receives probation then the Court will issue a sentence. This sentence, however, will be suspended while the individual serves out their term of probation. During this time they will be required to check in with a supervising officer, to refrain from alcohol, and will likely be required to take drug tests. If the defendant completes all of their requirements, and stays out of trouble, then their case will be closed at the end of their probation. If they violate the terms of their probation then the Court will have the option of requiring them to serve the originally imposed sentence.
Contact a Peoria defense lawyer immediately if you are charged with drunk driving while a child was in the vehicle
It is common for individuals who are charged with DUI child endangerment to have never dealt with the legal system before. Such citizens can be shocked to learn that they are facing felony charges. Having experienced counsel, who is familiar with the handling of such matters, is important to making sure you know what to expect from the process as the situation moves forward. As a former prosecutor, who devotes his practice to protecting the rights of the accused, I understand the gravity of the situation. If you are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a Peoria criminal defense lawyer. I pride myself on providing a high level of representation and I look forward to speaking with you. In addition to Peoria, we also serve clients in Bloomington, Decatur, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington and the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. Additional areas where we handle federal cases include Benton, Chicago, East St. Louis, Springfield, and Urbana.