How We Helped “Mark T.” Protect His Future After a First-Time DUI Arrest
From Panic to Relief: A Real Story of Legal Recovery
Mark T. had never been in trouble with the law. He worked full time delivering medical supplies throughout the suburbs of Chicago, was proud of his reliability, and supported his aging parents. But one winter night in January, everything changed.
He had gone out with a few coworkers for dinner after a long day. A couple of drinks, some laughs—and then, just like that, flashing lights in his rearview mirror. He had barely gotten onto a quiet road in Aurora when he was pulled over for not signaling a lane change.
What started as a routine traffic stop turned serious fast. The officer said he smelled alcohol. Mark complied with field sobriety tests and a roadside breathalyzer. He didn’t feel impaired, but the results told a different story. He was arrested and charged with a first-time DUI.
Mark was freaking out. Would he lose his license? His job? His reputation? Would he go to jail? He couldn’t imagine explaining this to his employer or his family.
That’s when he called O’Flaherty Law.
What Was at Stake
When Mark called us, he was still in shock. He was worried not just about the embarrassment of the charge but also what a conviction would mean for his life. As a delivery driver, his license was more than just a convenience—it was his livelihood.
He was looking for more than just legal advice. He needed someone to listen, to explain his options clearly, and to fight for a solution that wouldn’t ruin his future. We told him: he was not alone and there was a way forward.
The Legal Strategy: Dig Deep and Move Fast
We started with a simple but powerful promise: we would treat his case as if it were our own.
Our team sprang into action, starting with a thorough review of the arrest. We got dash cam and body cam footage, analyzed the field sobriety test procedures, and pulled records on the breathalyzer equipment used. Every detail mattered.
We quickly found red flags. The sobriety tests were done on a poorly lit, uneven patch of road. The officer’s instructions were vague. And the breathalyzer—just over the legal limit—hadn’t been properly calibrated according to the maintenance logs. While we were preparing to challenge the DUI charge, we also helped Mark get a Monitoring Device Driving Permit, which allowed him to continue driving with a BAIID device in his vehicle. This alone saved his job.
At the same time, we opened a dialogue with the State’s Attorney. We highlighted Mark’s clean record, his steady employment, and his proactive step of starting alcohol education classes on his own. We weren’t just defending a case—we were telling his whole story.
The Result: A Second Chance, Not a Setback
After several court appearances and weeks of negotiations, we reached an agreement: Mark’s DUI charge was reduced to reckless driving under court supervision.
No jail time, no criminal conviction, and no permanent mark on his record. Mark kept his license and continued to work without interruption. In 12 months, this case will be eligible for expungement.
Why Mark’s Story Matters
Mark’s story is one we hear all too often—good people in a bad moment, unsure where to turn. The legal system can be unforgiving, especially when your job, freedom, and future are on the line. But there’s hope when you act fast and have the right legal team in your corner.
At O’Flaherty Law, we don’t just check boxes. We listen. We strategize. We fight with integrity. And most importantly, we walk with you every step of the way.
Could This Be You?
If you’ve been charged with DUI or a serious traffic offense, you don’t have to go it alone. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been down this road before, we’ll meet you where you are and help you find a better way forward.
Schedule a Consultation with O’Flaherty Law Today
Let’s talk about your story—and how we can help you write a better next chapter.