What Are the Penalties for a First-Offense DUI in Connecticut?

 Posted on May 26, 2023 in Driving Under the Influence

If you have been charged with a first offense of driving under the influence (DUI) in Connecticut, it is crucial that you understand the penalties involved. Connecticut has stringent laws concerning driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and the consequences of a DUI can be severe. While first-time DUI offenders face milder punishments than those who have committed multiple offenses, the consequences of a first-offense DUI can still be significant. Therefore, if you are facing a first-offense DUI charge, contact a criminal defense attorney right away to begin the process of building a solid defense.

Consequences of a First-Time DUI

Penalties may include the following:

• Jail time – A first-time offender may serve up to six months in prison if convicted. The court may also suspend the sentence and make partial alternative provisions, such as community service, probation, or paying a penalty fee.
• Driver’s license suspension – A first-time offender may lose driving privileges for up to 45 days and be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle. Without this device, the convicted driver will not be able to start their car.
• Fines – A first-time DUI offense comes with a fine that ranges from $500 to $1,000. The judge can also order additional costs, including drug or alcohol education programs or counseling.

What a Connecticut DUI Attorney Can Do for You

If you live in Connecticut and find yourself facing a first-time DUI charge, hiring an attorney can be extremely beneficial. Your Connecticut DUI attorney will evaluate the circumstances that led to your arrest and help determine the best course of action for you. In addition, your attorney will challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf, and argue for a lesser sentence or a plea bargain.

Moreover, your Connecticut DUI attorney can guide and assist with navigating the complex legal system and court proceedings. While hiring an attorney is not required, hiring legal counsel can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, potentially reducing the severity of the penalties you may face from a first-offense DUI. Hiring an attorney can help ensure you receive fair and just treatment by the court while aggressively pursuing a favorable case outcome.

Contact a Stamford, CT DUI Attorney

Consider hiring the skilled Fairfield County DUI attorney with Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner for aggressive legal representation for your first-offense DUI. Call 203-348-5846 for a free consultation.

Source - https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/licenses-permits-ids/license-suspension/driving-under-influence?language=en_US