DUI Defense Lawyer in Collinsville IL
Protecting Your License, Your Record, and Your Future Throughout Madison and St. Clair Counties
Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois is a frightening and life-changing experience. Even a first-time DUI can result in jail time, license suspension, thousands of fines, and a permanent criminal record. At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we understand how overwhelming a DUI charge can be—and we’re here to fight for you.
We serve drivers charged with DUI across Collinsville, Edwardsville, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Belleville, O’Fallon, and other communities in Madison and St. Clair Counties. Whether you failed a breathalyzer test, refused chemical testing, or were involved in a crash, our firm provides aggressive, experienced DUI defense tailored to your case.
Illinois DUI Laws: What You Need to Know
In Illinois, you can be charged with DUI if:
- Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
- You are impaired by drugs or alcohol even if your BAC is below 0.08%
- You are under 21 years old and have any trace of alcohol in your system (Zero Tolerance Law)
- You are impaired by prescription medications or cannabis
If you refuse to submit to testing, your license can be suspended for up to 12 months for a first offense, and 3 years for a second refusal within five years—even if you’re not ultimately convicted of DUI. Additionally, if you take and fail a chemical test, your license may still be suspended for at least six months on a first offense. These administrative penalties are separate from any criminal charges you may face in court. Understanding these consequences is crucial when deciding how to respond during a traffic stop. At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we help clients challenge license suspensions and fight DUI charges to protect their driving privileges and their future.
DUI Charges We Defend
First-Time DUI
The first offense is typically a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail, $2,500 in fines, and a 6-month license suspension. However, penalties increase sharply with high BAC levels (.16+) or if a child passenger was involved. In these cases, you could face mandatory jail time, community service, or additional fines. You may also be required to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) on your vehicle. Even a first DUI can impact your employment, insurance rates, and personal reputation. That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced DUI defense attorney who can explore every possible avenue to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Aggravated DUI / Felony DUI
DUI becomes a felony in Illinois when it involves:
- A third or subsequent offense
- Injury or death to another person
- DUI while driving a school bus or with a child under 16
- DUI without a valid license or insurance
A Class 2 felony DUI can lead to 3–14 years in prison, massive fines, and 10-year license revocation.
Underage DUI
Illinois enforces a Zero Tolerance policy for drivers under 21. Any detectable amount of alcohol can result in a license suspension and additional penalties. A first offense may result in a three-month suspension, while subsequent violations carry longer suspensions or even revocation. If the underage driver is also charged with DUI, the penalties become much more severe and may include jail time and hefty fines. A conviction can also impact college admissions, scholarships, and future employment. With so much at stake, it’s crucial to get legal help immediately.
Refusal to Submit / Breathalyzer Defense
Refusing a chemical test triggers automatic license suspension, but refusal is often defensible—especially if police didn’t have probable cause or mishandled the stop. In some cases, officers fail to clearly explain the consequences of refusal, which can be grounds to challenge the suspension. Additionally, if the traffic stop itself was unlawful, any evidence gathered—including the refusal—may be inadmissible. Every detail matters, and a skilled attorney can identify procedural errors that work in your favor. Don’t assume your case is hopeless—refusal doesn’t equal guilt.
What Are the Penalties for DUI in Illinois?
|
Offense Type
|
Jail Time
|
Fines
|
License Suspension
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
1st DUI
|
Up to 1 year
|
Up to $2,500
|
6-12 months
|
|
2nd DUI
|
Up to 1 year
|
Up to $2,500
|
5 years
|
|
3rd DUI
|
3-7 years (felony)
|
Up to $25,000
|
10 years
|
Aggravating factors—such as BAC over .16, a crash with injuries, or child passengers—can result in mandatory jail, higher fines, and felony charges.
DUI Defense Strategies that Work
At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we craft a personalized defense strategy based on your arrest circumstances. We challenge every element of the prosecution’s case, including:
Was the Traffic Stop Legal?
Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over and probable cause to arrest you. If they lacked justification, we may be able to get the case dismissed.
Were the Field Sobriety Tests Administered Properly?
Field tests are highly subjective. We scrutinize how they were conducted and whether they were influenced by poor weather, fatigue, medical conditions, or roadside distractions.
Is the Breathalyzer or Blood Test Accurate?
Breathalyzers must be properly calibrated and maintained. We examine the machine’s maintenance records and challenge testing methods, especially if:
- You had a rising BAC (alcohol absorbed after the stop)
- You were exposed to environmental factors (e.g., mouthwash, medical conditions)
- The operator wasn’t certified
Are There Dash Cam or Body Cam Videos?
We review all available footage to determine whether your rights were violated or if the officer’s report is inconsistent with the video evidence.
Can I Keep My License After a DUI?
Yes—but you must act fast.
You have only 46 days from the date of your arrest before your Statutory Summary Suspension takes effect. We can file a Petition to Rescind the suspension and request a hearing.
Additionally, if eligible, we may help you obtain a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP) so you can continue driving with a BAIID breath device installed in your vehicle.
First-Time Offender? You May Qualify for Relief
Illinois offers alternatives to jail for eligible drivers:
- Court Supervision – Avoids a conviction if successfully completed
- DUI Court / Treatment Programs – Focus on rehab over punishment
- Community Service and Alcohol Education Classes
Successful completion of some programs may allow for record sealing or expungement later on. These alternatives are especially valuable for first-time offenders looking to avoid long-term consequences like a criminal record or license revocation. Eligibility depends on factors like your BAC level, driving history, and whether any aggravating circumstances were involved. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help determine which options apply to your case and guide you through the application process. Taking action early can significantly improve your outcome.
First-Time Offender? You May Qualify for Relief
DUI charges aren’t traffic tickets—they are criminal offenses that can change the course of your life. You need a lawyer who knows how local courts operate and who can protect your rights from day one.
At The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC., we:
- Challenge the legality of your arrest
- Fight to keep your license
- Negotiate reduced charges or plea agreements
- Advocate for treatment-based alternatives
- Represent you at all court and DMV hearings
Serving Clients in Madison & St. Clair Counties
We defend clients facing DUI and traffic offenses throughout Collinsville, Edwardsville, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Belleville, O’Fallon, Troy, Fairview Heights, Swansea, and Shiloh. Whether your arrest occurred on I-55, Route 159, or at a neighborhood checkpoint, our team is prepared to protect your rights and provide strong legal representation.
DUI Frequently Asked Questions
Are breathalyzer results always accurate?
No. Faulty calibration, operator error, and medical conditions (like GERD or diabetes) can affect readings. We’ll review the testing records and procedures used.
Can I be arrested for prescription drug DUI?
Yes. Driving while impaired by any substance, including legally prescribed medications or marijuana, can result in DUI charges.
Will a DUI stay on my record forever?
A conviction cannot be expunged. However, court supervision or dismissal may allow for record sealing. We can explore your eligibility.
What happens if I’m a repeat offender?
Penalties increase sharply. The third DUI is a felony. Additional convictions can lead to years in prison and long-term license loss.
Contact a Collinsville DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you’ve been charged with DUI, you don’t have to face the system alone. With your license, freedom, and future on the line, the smartest move is to call an experienced DUI lawyer immediately. Time is critical—evidence can be lost, witnesses’ memories can fade, and deadlines for challenging license suspensions approach quickly. A skilled attorney can start building your defense right away, working to reduce charges or even get the case dismissed. Don’t wait until your court date to get help—contact The Law Office of Dillon Borri, LLC. at 618.213.2312 for a free consultation. We proudly serve clients across Collinsville, Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Belleville, and beyond, with same-day and weekend appointments available.