How Do You Fight an Aggravated Speeding Charge in Illinois?

 Posted on August 22, 2025 in Traffic violations

In Illinois, aggravated speeding is not a routine traffic ticket. It is a criminal charge that can follow you long after the stop. A single case can raise insurance rates, appear on background checks, and complicate certain professional licenses. The good news is that you can challenge the charges against you. Acting quickly matters, and an experienced Kane County, IL aggravated speeding defense attorney can help you build a strong defense.

How Is Aggravated Speeding Different Than Speeding Under Illinois Law?

Most speeding tickets are petty offenses that carry fines only. Aggravated speeding is different. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5, driving 26-34 mph over the limit is a Class B misdemeanor, and driving 35 mph or more over is a Class A misdemeanor. That means a mandatory court appearance and the risk of a criminal conviction.

Judges may allow court supervision in some situations, but this can have limits in school or construction zones and for certain prior offenders. Because aggravated speeding is a misdemeanor, the State must prove the posted limit, the accuracy of the measurement, and the officer’s observations beyond a reasonable doubt.

What Are the Common Defenses Against Aggravated Speeding in Illinois?

The details of your case will affect which defense strategy is most appropriate for your case. However, your attorney could go with any of the following:

• Challenge whether radar, lidar, or pacing was used correctly and if the device was tested and calibrated

• Inspect signage and zones in case limits, school zones, and work-zone postings were visible, lawful, and in effect at the time

• Question whether the officer identified the right car and kept it in sight the entire time

• Argue that you had to speed because of a real emergency, or that the charge is wrong because the location was misidentified

• Ask to reduce the charge to petty speeding or to get court supervision so you avoid a conviction, if you qualify

What Are the Penalties for an Aggravated Speeding Conviction in Illinois?

Penalties for aggravated speeding depend on the misdemeanor class. For a Class B misdemeanor, under 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-60, the sentencing range includes up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,500. For a Class A misdemeanor, under 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-55, the range includes as much as 364 days in jail and fines up to $2,500.

Courts may also order community service, traffic safety courses, and other conditions. Beyond the courtroom, insurance premiums often rise after a conviction, and multiple traffic convictions within a short period can trigger license consequences through the Secretary of State.

Contact an Aurora, IL Aggravated Speeding Defense Attorney Today

A misdemeanor speeding case moves quickly, and every detail matters. The experienced Kane County, IL aggravated speeding defense lawyer from The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola can scrutinize the evidence and raise procedural and legal defenses.

Attorney Brian J. Mirandola formerly served as an Assistant State’s Attorney, so he understands how prosecutors build their files and plan negotiations and trial strategy. That background helps him find weaknesses in the State’s case and use them to your advantage at the bargaining table and in the courtroom. Allow him to put that experience to work for you and help you through this difficult time. If you were cited for aggravated speeding, call 847-488-0889 to schedule your free consultation and start building your defense today.