Legal Question in DUI Law in Illinois

Hello,

I have what seems to be a pretty basic question regarding how I should handle a warrant which was recently issued for my arrest. Last March, 13 months ago, I received a DUI. As part of the conditions I had to attend many meetings, meet with a case worker and attend an Intensive Outpatient Program for alcoholism and addiction. O also had to pay about $1500 worth of fines which were due in late January of this year, about 9 weeks ago. I completed the other requirements, but have not paid the fines. I learned from my case worker, whom I meet with every couple of months, that a warrant was issued for my arrest about a week ago.

I am wondering what my best course of action is as of right now. I have no felonies and have had a clean record besides the DUI for the past 5 years. At this point is going to the Cook County Courthouse in Skokie, Illinois to ask for an extension a good idea? Do I risk the possibility of not being able to leave if I show up with no money? Should I call over there to get more information?

My main inquiry is whether I can not pay the fines for another 3 months or so; until I have it, and not go to jail.

Any help you can give me would be great. Thank you very much!

-Carl


Asked on 4/05/12, 10:00 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Purav Bhatt The Law Office of Purav Bhatt

Hi Carl,

If a warrant has been issued for your arrest then appearing in court before the judge will always have the risk of the judge executing the warrant and taking you into custody. This will not be for failure to pay the fines and fees attached with your DUI, but with your failure to appear for the violation which was likely filed after some time passed and you had not paid any of your fines and fees. The court probably sent you a notice of the violation and a court date for you to appear at. Since you did not appear, the judge issued a warrant.

Have you paid any of the fees? How much are you able to pay now? Additionally, your chances of extending your supervision in order to pay the fines are better if you are represented by an experienced attorney.

Good luck

Purav Bhatt

Attorney at Law

773-791-9682

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Answered on 4/26/12, 10:50 am


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