Arrested for DUI in Central Illinois?
Protect Your License, Your Record, and Your Future
Call (309) 999-1177 Now⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5-Star Reviews • 30 Years Experience • 14 Counties Served
When You’ve Been Arrested for DUI
A DUI arrest is terrifying. Your mind races with questions: Will I lose my license? Will I go to jail? How will I get to work? What about my insurance? The consequences are serious, but you don’t have to face this alone.
Attorney Maureen Williams has 30 years of experience defending DUI cases in central Illinois. She knows the courts, the prosecutors, and the strategies that work. Time is critical—especially for protecting your driver’s license.
What You’re Facing After a DUI Arrest
License Suspension
Your license can be suspended before you’re even convicted. You have 46 days to request a hearing—or face automatic suspension.
Criminal Record
A DUI conviction stays on your record permanently in Illinois. It can affect employment, housing, and future opportunities.
Jail Time and Fines
Even a first-time DUI can result in jail time, thousands in fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
Insurance Costs
Your insurance rates will skyrocket. Many insurance companies drop DUI drivers entirely, forcing you into high-risk pools.
How We Defend Your DUI Case
Challenge the Stop
Police need reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was illegal, evidence can be suppressed.
Question Field Tests
Field sobriety tests are subjective and unreliable. Medical conditions, weather, and nerves affect results.
Contest Breathalyzer
Breathalyzers require proper calibration and operation. Errors are common and can invalidate results.
Protect Your License
We fight to keep your driving privileges through administrative hearings and court proceedings.
Your DUI Defense Process
Immediate Action
Contact us within 46 days of arrest. We’ll file for your license hearing and begin investigating your case immediately.
Case Investigation
We’ll review police reports, dashcam footage, breathalyzer calibration records, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Strategic Defense
Based on the evidence, we’ll develop a custom defense strategy—whether that’s fighting for dismissal, negotiating reduced charges, or taking your case to trial.
Common DUI Defenses in Illinois
- Illegal Traffic Stop: Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. No valid reason means evidence gets suppressed.
- Improper Field Sobriety Tests: Tests must be administered correctly under proper conditions. Many factors affect performance.
- Breathalyzer Errors: Machines must be properly calibrated and maintained. Medical conditions and diet can cause false positives.
- Blood Test Contamination: Blood samples must follow strict chain of custody. Improper handling invalidates results.
- Rising Blood Alcohol: Your BAC may have been below the limit while driving but rose by the time of testing.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, GERD, and other conditions can mimic intoxication or affect test results.
- Procedural Violations: Police must follow specific procedures. Violations can result in dismissed charges.
- Witness Testimony: Passengers and other witnesses can contradict police accounts of your behavior.
Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Illinois
First Offense DUI:
- ◆ Up to 1 year in jail
- ◆ Fines up to $2,500
- ◆ Minimum 1-year license suspension
- ◆ Mandatory alcohol education
- ◆ Possible ignition interlock device
- ◆ Community service requirements
Aggravated DUI (Higher Penalties):
- ◆ Third or subsequent offense
- ◆ DUI with child in vehicle
- ◆ DUI causing bodily harm
- ◆ DUI causing death
- ◆ Driving on revoked license
- ◆ BAC of .16 or higher
Why Experience Matters in DUI Defense
DUI law in Illinois is complex and constantly changing. You need an attorney who knows:
The Science
How breathalyzers work, what causes false positives, proper blood draw procedures, and how to challenge forensic evidence.
The Law
Illinois DUI statutes, implied consent laws, license suspension procedures, and the latest court decisions affecting your case.
The Courts
Local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in your county. What works in Peoria may not work in McLean County.
The Strategy
When to fight, when to negotiate, and how to get the best possible outcome based on your specific circumstances.
What Our Clients Say
"Maureen was excellent to work with. She was very knowledgeable and explained everything clearly. I highly recommend her services."
— Sarah M., Peoria
"Best attorney in central Illinois. She fought hard for my case and got great results. Worth every penny."
— Michael R., Bloomington
"Maureen was professional, responsive, and truly cared about my case. She made a stressful situation much easier to handle."
— Jennifer L., Pekin
"I was facing serious charges and Maureen got them reduced significantly. She knows the local courts and judges very well."
— David K., Decatur
"Maureen went above and beyond. She was available when I needed her and always kept me informed. Highly recommend."
— Robert T., Ottawa
DUI Defense Across Central Illinois
Attorney Maureen Williams defends DUI cases in 14 central Illinois counties. Click your county for local information:
Common DUI Questions
Should I have refused the breathalyzer test?
Illinois has an implied consent law—refusing the test results in automatic license suspension. However, refusal means no BAC evidence against you. This is a complex decision with pros and cons that vary by situation.
Can I get my DUI charge reduced?
Possibly. With strong defense work, some DUI charges can be reduced to reckless driving. This depends on the evidence, your record, and negotiations with prosecutors.
Will I definitely lose my license?
Not necessarily. You have the right to a hearing to contest your license suspension. With proper representation, you may keep your driving privileges or obtain a restricted driving permit.
What’s the difference between a license suspension and DUI charge?
These are two separate proceedings. The license suspension is administrative (Secretary of State). The DUI charge is criminal (court system). You must defend both.
How much does DUI defense cost?
Legal fees vary based on case complexity. However, the cost of conviction—lost license, jail time, higher insurance, lost job opportunities—far exceeds the cost of proper defense. Call for a confidential consultation.
Related Criminal Defense Services
In addition to DUI defense, Attorney Williams handles all criminal matters:
Criminal Defense
Drug charges, assault, theft, domestic violence, weapons offenses, and all felony and misdemeanor charges.
Post-Conviction Appeals
Already convicted? We handle appeals, sentence reductions, and post-conviction relief petitions.
Time Is Running Out—Call Now
You have only 46 days to save your driver’s license. Don’t face DUI charges alone. Call now for a confidential consultation with an experienced DUI defense attorney.
Call (309) 999-1177 Now30 Years Experience • 14 Counties Served • Immediate Action Taken