Speeding Tickets in DuPage County

Speeding Tickets in DuPage County: What You Need to Know

As a criminal defense attorney with over 32 years of experience handling speeding ticket cases in DuPage County, I understand how something as seemingly minor as a speeding ticket can have serious consequences. Many people think of speeding tickets as simple nuisances that can be paid and forgotten. Unfortunately, that is not always the case—especially in DuPage County. Whether you are a first-time offender or hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), it’s essential to understand your rights, responsibilities, and the potential consequences of a speeding citation.

In this article, I will explain what you can expect if you receive a speeding ticket in DuPage County, Illinois. We’ll cover the impact on your driving record and criminal history, whether you need to appear in court, what happens in court, and the different locations where speeding tickets are heard. I’ll also discuss how village prosecutors may be involved and what CDL holders should be especially concerned about. If you’ve recently received a ticket, hiring an experienced attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

1. Consequences of a Speeding Ticket on Your Driving Record and Criminal History

In Illinois, speeding tickets are more than just an inconvenience. Depending on the severity of the violation, a speeding ticket can affect your driving record, result in significant fines, lead to a license suspension, or even create a permanent mark on your criminal history.

Speeding 1 to 25 miles over the limit is considered a petty offense, but speeding 26 to 34 miles over the limit is a Class B misdemeanor, and 35+ miles over the limit is a Class A misdemeanor. These are criminal charges, not simple traffic infractions. A conviction for a misdemeanor speeding ticket will go on your permanent criminal record and can affect employment, background checks, and insurance rates.

Additionally, each speeding conviction adds points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can result in license suspension or revocation. Young drivers, especially those under 21, face even stricter consequences.

2. Do You Have to Appear in Court for a Speeding Ticket in DuPage County?

Whether or not you have to appear in court for a speeding ticket depends on the type of ticket you’ve received. If you are charged with a petty offense (typically under 26 mph over the limit), you may be eligible for court supervision or traffic school and may not need to appear in person if you handle the ticket properly in advance.

However, if you’re charged with aggravated speeding (26 mph or more over the limit), court appearance is mandatory. These are misdemeanor offenses and cannot be resolved by simply mailing in a fine or completing traffic school.

Failing to appear in court when required can result in a warrant for your arrest, license suspension, and additional fines or penalties. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the nature of your charge and consult with a defense attorney as soon as possible.

3. What Happens When You Go to Court for a Speeding Ticket in DuPage County?

When you go to court for a speeding ticket in DuPage County, you will appear before a judge who will oversee your case. If it is your first offense and you are eligible, you may be offered court supervision—a type of probation that does not result in a conviction if you complete the terms.

However, if you are facing a misdemeanor charge for aggravated speeding, the case becomes more serious. You will be arraigned, and the judge may appoint a public defender if you cannot afford an attorney. The prosecutor will present the case, and you (or your attorney) will have an opportunity to argue for a reduction or dismissal, negotiate a plea deal, or proceed to trial.

An experienced traffic attorney can often negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a petty offense or arrange court supervision to avoid a conviction. Without legal representation, you may not be aware of all your options and could end up with a criminal conviction that was avoidable.

4. Where Is Court for DuPage County Speeding Tickets?

DuPage County speeding tickets are typically handled at the main DuPage County courthouse in Wheaton:

DuPage County Judicial Center
505 N. County Farm Road
Wheaton, IL 60187

In addition to the main courthouse, some cases are handled at branch courts, which are satellite court locations that handle traffic and ordinance violations. These include:

• Glendale Heights Branch Court: 300 E. Fullerton Avenue, Glendale Heights, IL. 60139
• The rest of the branch courts have been moved to the 1st floor of the DuPage County Judicial Center

It’s important to check your ticket for the exact location and date of your court appearance.

5. How Some Tickets Are Handled by Village Prosecutors

In DuPage County, certain municipalities handle speeding tickets through their own village prosecutors. These are typically tickets issued by local police departments for ordinance violations, which are prosecuted in municipal court rather than by the State’s Attorney.

While these may seem less serious, they can still result in fines, court supervision, or a record of conviction. Village prosecutors often have more flexibility in negotiating outcomes, but having an experienced attorney who is familiar with local procedures and personnel can be a huge advantage.

6. How a Speeding Ticket Could Affect a CDL Holder

If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a speeding ticket can be particularly damaging. CDL holders are held to a higher standard, even when driving their personal vehicles. Certain speeding violations are classified as “serious traffic violations” under federal law.

Two or more serious violations within three years can result in a suspension of your CDL. Even a single speeding ticket 15 mph or more over the limit can be considered a serious offense. This can have devastating consequences on your livelihood if you depend on your CDL for work.

Additionally, CDL holders are not eligible for court supervision for traffic violations committed in a commercial vehicle. That means any conviction will go on your driving record and could be reported to your employer and the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).

If you hold a CDL, it is critical to consult an experienced attorney immediately after receiving a speeding ticket in DuPage County.

Why Hire an Experienced DuPage County Traffic Attorney?

With over three decades of experience, I have handled thousands of speeding ticket cases in DuPage County. I know the judges, the prosecutors, the village attorneys, and the court procedures. I understand how to craft an effective defense, negotiate a favorable outcome, and protect your driving record, your criminal history, and your future.

Whether you’re facing a petty speeding ticket or an aggravated misdemeanor charge, I can help you understand your options, avoid costly mistakes, and fight for the best possible result. In many cases, I can appear in court on your behalf so you don’t have to miss work or rearrange your schedule.

Don’t take a speeding ticket lightly—especially in DuPage County. The consequences can be more serious than you think. Contact my office today for a free consultation and let’s discuss how I can help protect your record, your license, and your peace of mind.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve received a speeding ticket in DuPage County, call 847-807-7405 or fill out our online form on our website to speak with an experienced defense attorney. With the right legal guidance, you can navigate the court system effectively and minimize the impact on your life.

Phone: 847-807-7405
Office Location: 120 W. Golf Road, Suite 110, Schaumburg, IL. 60195

Over 32 years of experience. Thousands of traffic cases handled. Personalized legal solutions you can trust.