Be Rested, Not Arrested on Labor Day

Happy Labor Day, America!

While this has been a year unlike any other, at least in our lifetimes, and many people have lost their jobs or closed businesses, some even contemplating bankruptcy, we still have good reason to celebrate Labor Day.

For some 130 years, Americans have recognized the achievements of our trade and labor organizations and all workers, who have contributed to the greatest production of goods and services, and the highest standard of living in the world.  Labor Day, the first Monday in September, and the preceding weekend, have evolved into a well-deserved break for American workers and their families.

Celebrate Responsibly

When not restricted by responsible public safety measures connected with COVID-19, Americans typically gather for backyard BBQ’s, beaches and ballparks for fun, food, bands and beer.  Crowds may be smaller this year, but people are still going to socialize and enjoy, sometimes to excess, the traditional end of Summer.  

The Police are Watching

Beware, however, the increased likelihood of intoxicated drivers and potential danger to the public.  That’s the reason that many communities will have increased police patrols watching for signs of impaired drivers – vehicles driving too slow or too fast, weaving, erratic driving and erratic breaking.

Signs of Impaired Driving

After stopping a car for a driving infraction or equipment defect, if suspicious of drunken or drugged driving, police officers look for glassy bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, a strong odor of alcohol, poor balance, and inability to perform field sobriety tests, as evidence of intoxication.  Almost every driver stopped for suspicion of DUI admits to at least “two beers.” Field sobriety tests along with breath, blood or urine tests may confirm these suspicions, leading to a DUI arrest.

Penalties for DUI

The penalties for DUI are severe and increase drastically with each additional offense.  A first offense is a misdemeanor that carries a minimum sentence of court supervision, fines & court costs, alcohol or substance abuse counseling, and a maximum fine of $2,500 and up to one-year in jail, and possible suspension of driving privileges.

 A second offense includes a mandatory conviction, mandatory jail, and revocation of driving privileges. A third offense is a felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000.  The penalties continue to increase with each subsequent violation with a sixth offense punishable by up to 30 years in prison.  The penalties are even worse when a child is in the vehicle, an accident occurs resulting in injuries or death, or the person is driving on a suspended or revoked license.

The Lawyer You Need

Attorney Greg Martucci of Martucci Law has been successfully representing defendants charged with DUI throughout DuPage, Cook and Kane Counties for over 30 years.  In some cases, he may find a technical defense to defeat the charge.  In others, the evidence may be insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and justify contesting the charges in a bench or jury trial.  Where the evidence of guilt is strong, however, the best outcome may be to negotiate a favorable plea agreement involving a reduced charge or lenient sentence.

Contact Us

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI, and require a knowledgeable attorney and skilled advocate to protect your rights, and assert any legal defenses, call Martucci Law at 630-980-8333 today to schedule your free initial office consultation and learn more about how we can help you face the charges with confidence.