Strong DUI defense in Chicago starts before day 46.
In Illinois, a driver’s license can be suspended 46 days after a DUI arrest, long before the case is decided in court. The Chicago DUI Attorneys work to protect driving privileges and build the defense from the first call. The consultation is free.
- Gbenga LongePrincipal attorney
- Serving 22 locationsChicago and Cook County
- Super LawyersRising Stars recognition
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What happens after a DUI arrest in Illinois
Every Illinois DUI case runs on two separate tracks, the driver’s license and the criminal charge. The license track moves first, and it moves fast.
Day 1
Arrest and notice
The officer takes the driver’s license and issues a Notice of Summary Suspension, which works as a temporary permit to drive.
Day 46
Suspension begins
When a chemical test was failed or refused, the suspension starts at 12:01 a.m. unless a judge has already rescinded it.
Day 90
Last day to challenge
This is the final day to file a petition to rescind the suspension.
A first suspension lasts 6 months after a failed test and 12 months after a refusal. Calling early gives an attorney time to file and be heard before day 46.
Talk to an attorney now
A defense led by Gbenga Longe
Principal Attorney, The Chicago DUI Attorneys
The Chicago DUI Attorneys is a division of The Longe Law Firm, LLC, a private criminal defense firm based in Chicago. Gbenga Longe and her team defend drivers charged with DUI across Chicago and Cook County, from the Daley Center to the suburban courthouses in Markham and Maywood.
Clients describe her as upfront, prepared, and strong in court. Every client knows where the case stands, what the options are, and what happens next.
First-time DUI
Eligible first offenders may qualify for court supervision, which can keep a conviction off a driver’s record.
Second and third DUI
Repeat charges carry mandatory penalties and can become felonies. The defense needs to start early.
License suspension hearings
We file the petition to rescind and fight to keep clients on the road.
Breath test refusals
A refusal means a longer suspension, but the stop and the warnings can still be challenged.
Drug and cannabis DUI
These cases turn on how impairment was measured. We examine that evidence closely.
Commercial drivers
A DUI can put a CDL and a career at risk. We move quickly to protect both.
What our clients say
Real reviews from people we have represented in Chicago.
My wife was charged with a DUI and we found The Chicago DUI Attorneys. She was found not guilty and kept her license. Gbenga Longe is great in court. I recommend her 100 percent. You will not be disappointed.
Attorney Longe handled my husband's DUI and won the case. Justice was served because our attorney was sharp and willing to fight for us. I would recommend her a million times.
The firm represented me on my DUI and walked me through every step I needed to take and were thorough in every meeting. I was found not guilty on all charges and tickets, and my license was reinstated in less than 48 hours. If you want a firm that is upfront and honest with you, I highly recommend them.
I worked with the firm in 2020 on a DUI case in Cook County. The attorneys and staff were knowledgeable and responsive, and Attorney Longe personally explained my situation and how to avoid the criminal exposure I was facing. They fought for me, and I walked away with the best possible outcome.
Very professional and personal. This firm stays on top of everything and gets the job done. One of the best out here. I loved the service and the results behind it.
Your winning team
Dedicated to fighting for our clients’ rights, freedom, and peace of mind.
Gbenga Longe
Principal Attorney
Bridgette Brown
Attorney
How to get started
Call or send the form
Share the basic details and the location of the case.
Get a free case review
An attorney looks at the stop, the testing, and the deadlines, then explains the options in plain terms.
We go to work
We file what needs filing, gather the evidence, and stand beside our clients in court.
Where we defend DUI cases
Chicago, the Daley Center, and communities across Cook County's south and west suburbs.
Our office1655 South Blue Island Ave, Suite 324
Chicago, IL 60608
Common questions about Illinois DUI cases
Straight answers. For advice on a specific case, call for a free consultation.
Does a DUI arrest mean losing a license in Illinois?
Not automatically, but the risk is real. When a chemical test was failed or refused, Illinois suspends the license starting on day 46 after the arrest unless a judge rescinds it first. The deadline to file that challenge is 90 days. Many first offenders can also qualify for a monitoring device permit to keep driving during a suspension.
Is a lawyer necessary for a first DUI?
A first DUI can bring a license suspension, fines, and a criminal record. An attorney can challenge the stop, the testing, and the suspension, and can pursue outcomes like court supervision that are hard to reach without representation.
What happens after a breath test refusal?
A refusal usually means a longer suspension, 12 months for a first offender. It does not mean a conviction. Refusal cases can still be challenged, including how the officer explained the consequences.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. After reviewing the case, we explain our fee clearly before any decision is made.
Can a family member call on someone’s behalf?
Yes. We will explain what happens next, which deadlines apply, and how family can help.
When is the best time to call?
As early as possible. Calling early gives an attorney the most time before day 46.