A DUI revocation for causing injury or great bodily harm in Illinois is one of the most severe, often leading to extended loss of driving privileges and requiring rigorous proof of rehabilitation for reinstatement. As a Joliet driver’s license reinstatement lawyer with over 20 years of experience, including my time as a former Will County prosecutor, I’ve successfully navigated these complex cases for clients, helping them demonstrate change to the Secretary of State. At the Law Office of Jack L. Zaremba, we specialize in reinstatement after aggravated DUI revocations involving accidents in Will County. In this blog post, we’ll cover the legal basis, revocation durations, reinstatement requirements, challenges, and strategies for success in 2025. For related guidance, see our posts on preparing for formal hearings and applying for RDP after DUI .
Understanding Revocation for DUI Causing Injury in Illinois
Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501(d)(1)(C), a DUI causing great bodily harm is an aggravated Class 4 felony, triggering mandatory revocation upon conviction. Revocation lasts at least 2 years for first offenses, extending to permanent for fatalities or multiples. In Will County, these cases often arise from accidents on I-55 or Route 30, where impairment leads to injury charges. For the full statute, refer to the Illinois Vehicle Code on Aggravated DUI .
In 2025, courts and the SOS prioritize victim impact, making hearings more scrutinizing, with BAIID mandatory for any future permits.
Requirements for Reinstatement After Injury-Related DUI Revocation
Reinstatement demands comprehensive preparation:
- Serve the Period: Complete the minimum revocation (2+ years); obtain your driving abstract to confirm.
- Complete Evaluations: Undergo high-risk alcohol/drug assessments, fulfilling 75+ hours of treatment, victim impact panels, and sobriety documentation.
- Gather Evidence: Include treatment certificates, victim statements if applicable, character references, SR-22 insurance, and hardship proofs.
- Apply for Formal Hearing: Submit to the Secretary of State for a formal hearing, as these cases require it; fees range $50-$250.
- Install BAIID: Mandatory for RDP or reinstatement, with clean logs proving compliance.
Non-compliance or poor testimony often results in denials, emphasizing the need for strong advocacy.
Common Challenges and Tips for Success
Challenges include overcoming the “high-risk” label, addressing victim concerns, or handling concurrent criminal matters. In Joliet, intertwined court records can complicate, and emotional hearings demand preparation.
Tips:
- Start treatment early to build a rehabilitation narrative.
- Use experts to challenge original impairment evidence if appealing.
- Seek RDP for limited driving to show responsibility.
- Appeal denials within 35 days with enhanced evidence.
We’ve aided Will County clients in reinstating by focusing on remorse and safety, turning denials into approvals.
Why Hire a Reinstatement Lawyer for Injury DUI Cases?
These revocations involve heightened scrutiny; my prosecutorial experience helps craft persuasive cases, coordinating with courts and SOS for optimal outcomes.
If you’re seeking reinstatement after a DUI causing injury revocation in Will County, contact the Law Office of Jack L. Zaremba for a free consultation. Visit our contact page or call our Joliet office to begin in 2025. Rebuild and drive safely.