Unlike a first DUI, where you might avoid jail through probation, a second DUI requires the judge to sentence you to at least five days in jail or 240 hours of community service. The maximum sentence is one year in jail, plus significant fines and a minimum one-year license revocation.
A second DUI is a Class A misdemeanor under Illinois law, specifically 625 ILCS 5/11-501. This is much more serious than a first offense. According to the Illinois Secretary of State, over 21,000 people were arrested for DUI in Illinois last year. Many of these are repeat offenders who face harsh mandatory penalties that can dramatically affect their lives.
If you are facing a second DUI charge in 2026, the stakes are high. Our Chicago DUI defense lawyer offers free consultations to help you understand your options and build the strongest possible defense.