At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we understand that Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense with significant legal and personal consequences. DUI occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Our DUI attorneys in Peoria are committed to helping individuals understand DUI’s risks, legal consequences, and impacts. Contact us at (309) 250-1871 today to learn more about how we can assist you.
Definition & Legal Limits
A DUI offense typically involves driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above the legal limit, which is 0.08% in most U.S. states for drivers aged 21 and older. However, a driver can be charged with DUI even if their BAC is below the legal limit if law enforcement determines that their driving ability is impaired. For drivers under 21, many states have “zero tolerance” laws, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol can result in a DUI charge. Commercial drivers often face stricter limits, typically 0.04% BAC.
Detection & Testing
Law enforcement officers use various methods to detect potential DUI offenders:
Field Sobriety Tests: These include physical and cognitive tests such as the walk-and-turn test, one-leg stand test, and horizontal gaze nystagmus test
Breathalyzer Tests: These devices measure BAC through a breath sample
Blood Tests: Blood tests are more accurate than breathalyzers and can detect alcohol and drugs in the system
Urine Tests: Less common, but sometimes used to detect drug presence
Consequences of DUI
The consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe and long-lasting:
Long-Term Record: DUI convictions typically remain on criminal records for many years, potentially affecting future opportunities
Legal Penalties: These may include fines, jail time, license suspension or revocation, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs
Financial Costs: Besides fines, expenses can include increased insurance rates, legal fees, and costs associated with license reinstatement
Employment Impact: A DUI conviction can lead to job loss, especially in positions that require driving, and can make finding future employment more challenging
Personal and Social Consequences: DUI convictions can strain relationships, damage reputations, and result in social stigma
Consequences of DUI
The consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe and long-lasting:
Long-Term Record: DUI convictions typically remain on criminal records for many years, potentially affecting future opportunities
Legal Penalties: These may include fines, jail time, license suspension or revocation, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs
Financial Costs: Besides fines, expenses can include increased insurance rates, legal fees, and costs associated with license reinstatement
Employment Impact: A DUI conviction can lead to job loss, especially in positions that require driving, and can make finding future employment more challenging
Personal and Social Consequences: DUI convictions can strain relationships, damage reputations, and result in social stigma
Long-Term Implications
Beyond immediate legal consequences, a DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects, including:
Increased insurance rates
Difficulty finding employment, especially in jobs that require driving
Travel restrictions, particularly in countries like Canada
Social stigma and personal relationship strain
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties for DUI:
High BAC levels
Prior DUI convictions
Causing an accident, especially one resulting in injury or death
With a background in prosecution, we know how the other side thinks—and how to build stronger defenses and smarter injury claims.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered Driving Under the Influence (DUI)?
DUI occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. In most states, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired.
What are the legal BAC limits for DUI?
The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.00% in many states for drivers under 21.
How do police officers test for DUI?
DUI detection methods include field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, blood tests, and urine tests to measure alcohol or drug levels.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction?
Penalties may include fines, jail time, license suspension, increased insurance costs, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
Can a DUI conviction affect employment?
Yes, a DUI conviction can make it harder to find jobs, especially those requiring driving or professional licenses.
How can a DUI lawyer help?
A Peoria DUI lawyer can analyze the evidence, challenge test results, and build a strong defense to reduce or dismiss charges.
Contact Us Today
Driving under the influence remains a significant public safety concern, causing thousands of deaths and injuries each year.
Schierer & Ritchie, LLC is committed to helping individuals understand DUI’s risks, legal consequences, and impacts. Contact us today at (309) 250-1871 to learn more about how we can assist you.
“The results of having them on my case were better than I could have ever imagined and the level of care and compassion I received was next to none. On top of all of that, their skills and knowledge prevented me from receiving an undeserved felony charge.”
