Arlington Heights Aggravated Speeding Cases

Aggravated Speeding Lawyer in Arlington Heights, Illinois

If you have been charged with Aggravated Speeding in Arlington Heights, Illinois, you are facing a serious criminal charge that could have long-term consequences on your record, your driving privileges, and your personal and professional life. As a criminal defense attorney who regularly handles Aggravated Speeding cases at the Rolling Meadows Courthouse and has an office located near Arlington Heights, I understand how these cases are prosecuted and what it takes to effectively defend them.

Aggravated Speeding is not just a traffic ticket in Illinois—it is a criminal offense. Illinois law defines Aggravated Speeding as driving at a speed that exceeds the posted limit by 26 miles per hour or more. Depending on the circumstances, this offense can be charged as either a Class B or Class A misdemeanor.

What is Aggravated Speeding in Arlington Heights?

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5, Aggravated Speeding occurs when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit by a certain threshold:

• Driving 26 to 34 miles per hour over the posted speed limit is a Class B misdemeanor.
• Driving 35 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit is a Class A misdemeanor.

In Arlington Heights, police officers patrol busy roadways such as Route 53, Northwest Highway (Route 14), and Arlington Heights Road. These areas are frequent locations for speeding tickets and criminal speed-related arrests. When you are pulled over for speeding at a high rate, you may be issued a misdemeanor citation requiring you to appear in court at the Rolling Meadows Courthouse.

Difference Between Class A and Class B Misdemeanors

The penalties for Aggravated Speeding depend on whether you are charged with a Class A or Class B misdemeanor.

• Class B Misdemeanor (26-34 mph over the limit):
  • Up to 180 days in jail
  • Fines up to $1,500
  • Court supervision, probation, or conditional discharge may be possible
• Class A Misdemeanor (35+ mph over the limit):
  • Up to 364 days in jail
  • Fines up to $2,500
  • Court supervision, probation, or conditional discharge may be possible

Because Aggravated Speeding is a criminal charge, a conviction will result in a permanent criminal record. This can affect your ability to find a job, secure housing, or obtain certain professional licenses. That’s why it’s crucial to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands how to defend these cases effectively.

How Aggravated Speeding Cases are Handled in Arlington Heights

Aggravated Speeding cases that occur in Arlington Heights are handled at the Third Municipal District Courthouse in Rolling Meadows, located at 2121 Euclid Avenue. This courthouse handles all misdemeanor criminal cases from Arlington Heights and surrounding suburbs.

When you are charged with Aggravated Speeding, you will receive a court date on your ticket or citation. You must appear in court on that date. Failure to appear can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest. At your first court appearance, the judge may ask if you plan to hire an attorney. If you already have an attorney, your lawyer will begin the process of obtaining discovery (police reports, dashcam footage, etc.) and negotiating with the prosecutor.

As a criminal defense lawyer familiar with the judges and prosecutors at the Rolling Meadows Courthouse, I use my local knowledge and experience to build a strong defense for my clients. I work to get charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved through court supervision or other alternatives that avoid a conviction.

Possible Enhancements and Aggravating Factors

In some cases, additional factors can enhance the severity of an Aggravated Speeding charge. For example:

• Speeding in a construction zone: If workers are present, the penalties can be more severe.
• Speeding in a school zone: This can lead to increased fines and penalties.
• Prior speeding or traffic violations: A history of speeding can make it harder to obtain a favorable outcome.
• Causing an accident while speeding: This could lead to additional charges or liability.

These enhancements can make it more difficult to obtain court supervision or avoid a conviction, so it is essential to have a lawyer who can present mitigating factors and advocate on your behalf.

How an Aggravated Speeding Charge Can Affect Your Driver’s License

While Aggravated Speeding is a criminal offense, it also has implications for your driver’s license. If you are convicted of Aggravated Speeding, the Illinois Secretary of State may assess points against your license. Too many points can lead to a suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.

Additionally, drivers under the age of 21 or those with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) face stricter penalties. Court supervision may not be an option for CDL holders, and a conviction could result in the loss of your commercial driving privileges.

Avoiding a conviction is especially important if you rely on your driver’s license for work, school, or family responsibilities. An experienced Arlington Heights Aggravated Speeding attorney can help protect your driving record and keep your license intact.

Why Hire James Dimeas for Your Aggravated Speeding Case?

I am James Dimeas, a criminal defense lawyer with over 32 years of experience handling misdemeanor and felony cases in Cook County, including Arlington Heights. I have successfully defended numerous clients charged with Aggravated Speeding at the Rolling Meadows Courthouse. My office is conveniently located near Arlington Heights, and I am very familiar with the local courts, judges, and prosecutors.

When you hire me, I will:

• Carefully review the evidence and circumstances of your case
• Identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Advocate for court supervision or dismissal
• Fight to keep a conviction off your criminal record
• Keep you informed and prepared throughout the legal process

Call Today for a Free Consultation

If you are facing an Aggravated Speeding charge in Arlington Heights, Illinois, don’t take any chances with your future. Contact James Dimeas today for a free, confidential consultation. I will explain your rights, your legal options, and how I can help you fight your charge.

Call me now at 847-807-7405 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation. Let an experienced Arlington Heights Aggravated Speeding attorney fight for you.

James Dimeas – Criminal Defense Attorney for Arlington Heights Aggravated Speeding Cases