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

 Posted on December 28, 2020 in Driving Under the Influence

If you have recently been arrested and charged with driving under the influence, your mind may be racing with questions. You may wonder, “Will I lose my license?” or “Will I go to jail?” You may also worry about how a DUI conviction could affect your employment or educational opportunities. If you have been charged with DUI, the first thing you should do is educate yourself about your rights as a criminal defendant. One of the most important rights you have is the right to consult with a qualified attorney. Your attorney can help you build a strong defense against the charges, help you qualify for a diversion program, and represent your best interests through the proceedings.

Charges Do Not Mean Conviction

If you were charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, you may still have the opportunity to avoid conviction. If the arresting officers did not have probable cause to conduct a traffic stop, the breathalyzer or other blood alcohol content (BAC) tests were inaccurate, or there were other problems with the DUI arrest, you may avoid conviction. You may also be able to participate in a pretrial diversion program. Typically, these programs require participants to participate in drug or alcohol treatment or counseling of some kind. If you complete the program, you could have your charges dismissed entirely.

Penalties for a DUI Conviction

If you are convicted of DUI for the first time, you face up to $1,000 in fines, up to 6 months in jail, a maximum of 100 hours of community service, and suspension of your driver’s license. To regain your ability to drive, you may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on each of your vehicles. This device requires you to blow into the mouthpiece to start your car. If any alcohol is detected on your breath, your vehicle will not start.

Contact a Norwalk DUI Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one was recently arrested for drunk driving, contact the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner for help. Connecticut criminal defense attorney Daniel P. Weiner has practiced law for over 40 years. Our team can build a strong defense against the DUI charges and advocate on your behalf in court. We can also help you pursue a pretrial diversion program so that you may avoid a criminal record. Call our office today at 203-348-5846 and schedule your free, confidential initial consultation.

Source:

https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_248.htm