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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Fleeing and Eluding
Charged with Fleeing and Eluding in Illinois? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Fleeing and eluding is a serious criminal offense in Illinois that occurs when a driver intentionally fails to stop their vehicle when signaled or directed by law enforcement. This charge can lead to severe penalties, including fines, jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges of fleeing and eluding in Illinois, it is crucial to have an experienced defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Fleeing and Eluding Under Illinois Law
Under Illinois law, specifically 625 ILCS 5/11-204, fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer is defined as willfully failing or refusing to stop a vehicle after being given a visual or audible signal by a police officer directing the vehicle to stop. The signal could be given through hand gestures, voice commands, emergency lights, or a siren.
Penalties for Fleeing and Eluding in Illinois
Fleeing and eluding can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident:
Class A Misdemeanor:
Offense: A standard charge of fleeing and eluding where the driver fails to stop the vehicle when signaled by law enforcement.
Penalties:
Up to 1 year in jail.
Fines of up to $2,500.
Mandatory court appearance.
Potential suspension of your driver’s license for up to 6 months for a first offense and 1 year for a second offense within five years.
Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding (Class 4 Felony):
Circumstances: The charge is elevated to aggravated fleeing and eluding if, while fleeing, the driver:
Causes bodily injury to another person.
Causes property damage.
Disobeys two or more official traffic control devices.
Drives at a speed of 21 miles per hour or more over the speed limit.
Leaves the roadway or drives through a parking lot.
Penalties:
1 to 3 years in prison.
Fines of up to $25,000.
Mandatory court appearance.
Possible suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
Consequences of a Fleeing and Eluding Conviction
A conviction for fleeing and eluding can have significant and lasting consequences:
Criminal Record: Fleeing and eluding is a criminal offense, meaning a conviction will result in a permanent criminal record that can affect your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities.
License Suspension or Revocation: Upon conviction, the Illinois Secretary of State has the authority to suspend or revoke your driver’s license, which can severely impact your daily life and ability to work.
Insurance Premiums: A conviction for fleeing and eluding will likely result in higher car insurance premiums, as insurers view this as a sign of risky driving behavior.
Points on Your Driving Record: Fleeing and eluding adds points to your driving record, which can lead to further penalties if you accumulate too many points.
Defending Against Fleeing and Eluding Charges
Successfully defending against fleeing and eluding charges requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing the evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:
Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that you willfully intended to flee or elude the officer. If you were unaware that law enforcement was signaling you to stop or had a reasonable belief that you were not being pursued by law enforcement, this could be a strong defense.
Mistaken Identity: If there is a possibility that your vehicle was mistaken for another vehicle, Andrew will work to uncover evidence that points to your innocence.
Emergency Situations: If you were in an emergency situation that justified not stopping immediately, this could be a mitigating factor in your defense.
Challenging the Lawfulness of the Stop: If the initial attempt to stop your vehicle was unlawful, Andrew may argue that any subsequent charges should be dismissed.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?
Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling traffic offenses, including fleeing and eluding. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.
When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s deep understanding of Illinois traffic laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
If you have been charged with fleeing and eluding, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense
Facing charges of fleeing and eluding can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you have been arrested or charged with fleeing and eluding in Illinois, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.
Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.
Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.
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