Connecticut Dui Laws and Lawyers
In Connecticut, you can be arrested for a DUI (driving under the influence) with a blood alcohol content of .08%. Just like several other states in the country, if you are under 21, you can be arrested if you have a BAC of .02%, simply because it is illegal to drink under the age of 21. If you are driving a vehicle that requires a commercial driver’s license, your maximum blood alcohol content is .04%. If you meet any of these requirements, you will be arrested and then, depending upon the offense, you will have severe fines and other penalties enacted against you. In addition, if your driving seems to be impaired or you fail field sobriety tests, there may be charges filed against you.
First DUI Offense
Your first offense will instantly mean that you will lose your license for a period of one year and your automobile will be impounded for at least 2 days. You will also be put in jail for at least two years and depending upon your sentence at your legal hearing, you can spend up to six months in prison. Fines can be enacted of up to $1000, but this will not include the additional costs of court fees, mandatory alcohol assessment and treatment fees, and other fees that are associated with your sentence. Community service may be given in lieu of jail time.
Second DUI Offense
If you have a second offense within ten years, you should expect even more severe legal repercussions. You will lose your license for one year and you will be required to install an ignition interlock device for two years when your license is reinstated. Mandatory jail time of at least 120 days up to two years will also be mandated, as well as fines of anywhere from $1000 to $4000 plus any applicable court costs, completion of mandatory Substance Abuse Treatment program, etc. At least 100 hours of community service will be required as well.
Third DUI Offense
A third offense within a period of ten years will mean that you will lose your license for at least 6 years when you can apply for reinstatement, or permanently. In addition you will be put in jail for a period of at least one year, but up to three years. Fines will be in excess of $1000 and any other costs that are associated with your sentence. At least 100 hours of community service will also be mandated. This is a very serious offense and will have serious repercussions for a long time to come.
If you are convicted of drunk driving in Connecticut, it will be sure that your life will be disrupted for a very long while. The right legal representation or lawyer can help you to make it through the maze of legalese and allow you to make it through the process.