McCOLLUM
HODGKINSON
& NIKITAS
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Act Quickly: You have 46 days to save your license.
Meet Your DUI Defense Team
We are former prosecutors with decades of inside knowledge. We know how the state builds its DUI cases—and exactly how to dismantle them. When your freedom is on the line, you need lawyers who have fought on both sides of the courtroom.
Dan Hodgkinson
DUI Defense Lawyer
Former Prosecutor
Former President of the Lake County Bar Association. Former Chairman of the Criminal Law Committee of Lake County. Relentless advocate for those facing DUI charges.
Greg Nikitas
DUI Defense Lawyer
Former Prosecutor
Multiple murder trial wins. Former Chairman of the Criminal Law Committee of Lake County. Known for aggressive courtroom strategies and dismantling state evidence.
Aggressive DUI Defense in Waukegan, Lake & McHenry County
Former Prosecutors with Insider Knowledge
25,000+ Successful Criminal Cases
130+ 5-Star Google Reviews
We Fight DUI Cases
Over 25,000 cases won. Call (847) 641-2335 or
Request Your No-Cost Phone Consultation Below
The Statutory Summary Suspension Clock is Ticking
In Illinois, an arrest for DUI triggers an automatic driver's license suspension (Statutory Summary Suspension) that takes effect on the 46th day after your arrest. You must act immediately to file a petition to rescind this suspension. If you wait until your first court date, it may be too late to save your driving privileges.
How We Dismantle the State's Case
Because we used to prosecute these exact cases, we know precisely where police make mistakes. We don't just plead you guilty; we look for every opportunity to get charges reduced or dismissed.
Challenging the Initial Stop
Did the officer have reasonable suspicion to pull you over? If not, all evidence gathered afterward may be thrown out.
Attacking Field Sobriety Tests
These tests are highly subjective and often administered incorrectly. We challenge the officer's grading and instructions.
Disputing Breathalyzer Accuracy
Breath testing machines must be calibrated and maintained properly. We demand the logs and challenge the science.
Reviewing Body Cam Footage
We scrutinize every second of video to find inconsistencies between the officer's written report and what actually happened.
Potential DUI Penalties
Up to 364 days in jail (First Offense)
Fines up to $2,500
Statutory Summary Suspension of license
Mandatory alcohol treatment programs
Installation of a BAIID (breathalyzer) in your car
Permanent criminal record
"Don't face these penalties alone. Let our former prosecutors fight for your future."
130+ Google Reviews
What Our Clients Say
Don't just take our word for it. Read what our past clients have to say about our dedication, expertise, and results.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Cases
Understanding your rights and the Illinois DUI process is the first step in your defense. Here are answers to common questions we receive from clients in Lake and McHenry Counties.
Why is it important to hire a former prosecutor for my DUI case?
Former prosecutors like Dan Hodgkinson and Greg Nikitas know exactly how the State builds its case against you. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their strategies, identify weaknesses in police reports, and dismantle their arguments before we even step into the courtroom.
Can any lawyer handle a DUI, or do I need a DUI defense lawyer?
DUI law in Illinois is highly complex and involves specialized scientific evidence. General practitioners often miss critical technical defenses involving breathalyzer calibration or field sobriety test protocols. We focus heavily on DUI defense, ensuring no technicality is overlooked when fighting for your freedom.
How quickly do I need to hire a DUI lawyer after an arrest in Lake or McHenry County?
Time is critical. In Illinois, your license will be automatically suspended on the 46th day after your arrest. Hiring an experienced local DUI attorney immediately allows us to file a Petition to Rescind the Statutory Summary Suspension and start building your defense while evidence is still fresh.
What makes McCollum Hodgkinson & Nikitas different from other DUI firms?
We bring decades of combined trial experience and a track record of thousands of successful cases specifically in Lake and McHenry Counties. We don't just look for quick plea deals; we aggressively challenge the prosecution's evidence at every step to protect your record, your license, and your future.
I've been charged with a DUI. What should I do?
A DUI charge in Lake or McHenry County puts your record and freedom at risk. Timing is not on your side. Call us at (847) 641-2335 right now for a free consultation. We win DUI cases every single week.
Top DUI Defense Lawyers in Waukegan, Lake County & McHenry County
Our attorneys, Dan Hodgkinson and Greg Nikitas, have successfully defended thousands of clients against charges ranging from first-time offenses to complex felony DUIs, earning a reputation for relentless advocacy and exceptional results.
Call Dan and Greg at (847) 641-2335
Fact-Checked & Legally Reviewed
This page has been reviewed for legal accuracy by Dan Hodgkinson and Greg Nikitas, fully licensed Illinois attorneys specializing exclusively in criminal defense.
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