Rachael Moore Perry, Attorney at Law, Shares 10 Tips for Dealing With DUI Charges Following Recent Veterans Parkway Crash

On Tuesday night, two vehicles collided at Veterans Parkway and Eastland Drive intersection, resulting in a Bloomington man sustaining injuries. Responding to the scene, local law enforcement discovered several infractions, including disobeying a traffic control signal and driving an uninsured motor vehicle. Additionally, the individual involved has been charged with driving under the influence.

Rachael Moore Perry, a highly regarded Bloomington criminal defense attorney, emphasizes the importance of seeking experienced legal counsel in cases involving DUI charges. She asserts, “Driving under the influence carries severe penalties that can impact every aspect of your life. But it’s also important to remember that being charged with a DUI does not equal a conviction. With the right defense strategy, it’s possible to protect your rights and potentially minimize the consequences.”

DUI charges carry severe consequences, including substantial fines, license suspension, and potential incarceration. Given the recent incident, Attorney Rachael Moore Perry emphasizes the significance of seeking legal representation and offers the following ten tips for anyone facing DUI charges:

1.   Understand the Potential Consequences

Being aware of the potential consequences of a DUI conviction is crucial. These include fines, probation, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and imprisonment.

In Illinois, the penalties include:

• First Offense: Up to 364 days imprisonment, a fine of up to $2,500, and 1-year license suspension
• Second Offense: Up to 364 days imprisonment, a fine of up to $2,500, and a 5-year license suspension
• Third Offense: Up to 7 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $2,500, and a 10- year license suspension

The penalties may increase depending on the aggravating circumstances, like having a BAC limit of .16% or higher or having a passenger under 16 years old in the vehicle.

2.   Seek Legal Representation Immediately

If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to contact an experienced attorney immediately. A skilled lawyer specializing in DUI cases will help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and create a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. Don’t delay; contact an experienced DUI attorney today.

3.   Know Your Rights

Familiarize yourself with your rights during a DUI arrest.

These rights include:

• The right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. This means you don’t have to speak to the police and can refuse to answer any questions they ask you.
• The right to an attorney present during any questioning.
• The right to refuse a field sobriety test, such as a breathalyzer or blood test. However, refusing a test may result in the suspension of your driver’s license.
• The right to refuse a search of your vehicle or person without a warrant.
• The right to a fair trial includes the right to a jury trial, the right to cross-examine witnesses, and the right to present evidence in your defense.
• The right to challenge the evidence against you.

By staying calm, cooperating with law enforcement, and avoiding self-incrimination, you can protect yourself throughout the process.

4.   Preserve Evidence

Collect evidence that may support your defense, such as photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, or surveillance footage. This evidence can be instrumental in challenging the prosecution’s claims or negotiating a favorable plea deal.

5.   Scrutinize the Arrest Procedure

Any deviations from legal protocols or potential rights violations can significantly impact the case and potentially lead to the dismissal of charges.

A comprehensive review of the arrest process is crucial to ensure that all legal protocols are followed, and rights are not violated. Even small deviations can significantly impact a case’s outcome, potentially leading to the dismissal of charges and the release of the accused.

6.   Understand Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Testing

Educate yourself about the various methods used for BAC testing (including blood testing, breath testing, and chemical testing) and their potential inaccuracies. It is important to note that you can refuse a BAC test altogether in some situations.  However, it is essential to consult your attorney before deciding, as refusal may carry consequences such as license suspension or additional charges.

7.   Explore Possible Defenses

An experienced DUI attorney can assess your case and explore potential defenses, such as challenging the accuracy of BAC results, questioning the legality of the traffic stop, or disputing field sobriety test results.

Your attorney may also investigate whether the arresting officer followed proper protocol during the arrest or if there were any issues with the calibration of the breathalyzer machine used to measure BAC levels. They may also explore whether any external factors, such as medication or medical conditions, could have affected the accuracy of the BAC results.

8.   Consider Plea Bargains or Diversion Programs

Sometimes, negotiating plea bargains or participating in diversion programs may be advantageous. Your attorney can evaluate the circumstances and negotiate with the prosecution to pursue alternative resolutions minimizing potential consequences.

9.   Take Prompt Action to Protect Your Driver’s License

Act promptly to preserve your driving privileges. Your attorney can guide you through the administrative process of requesting a hearing to challenge any potential license suspension.

In Illinois, if you are arrested for a DUI, you have limited time to request a hearing with the Secretary of State’s office to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license. This hearing must be requested within 90 days of your arrest, or your license will automatically be suspended. Act promptly and consult with an experienced DUI attorney who can guide you through this process is important.

10.  Follow Your Attorney’s Guidance

Lastly, cooperate fully with your attorney and follow their advice throughout the legal proceedings. They have the experience necessary to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system effectively.

Rachael Moore Perry, Attorney at Law, is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and interests of individuals facing criminal charges, including DUI offenses. With her comprehensive understanding of the legal system and a proven track record of successful outcomes, Attorney Moore is committed to providing exceptional legal representation to clients in Bloomington and beyond.

About Rachael Moore Perry, Attorney at Law

Rachael Moore Perry, Attorney at Law, is a prominent criminal defense attorney based in Bloomington, IL. With a focus on DUI defense, she has successfully represented numerous clients, ensuring their rights are protected, and their voices are heard. Rachael Moore Perry’s commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned her recognition as one of the leading attorneys in the region.

For more information or help with your DUI case, visit the firm at their Bloomington, IL location:
308 E Washington St, Suite A, Bloomington, IL 61701