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Does a DUI in Connecticut mean jail time?
Question:
Does a DUI in Connecticut mean jail time?
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Get Informed - DUI/DWI Law Information
We've got a large library of DUI and DWI law articles, Q&A's and other resources. Start here to learn about DUI laws, arrests, defense, penalties and more.
DUI Basics
Get the low down on the law and what you can expect if you're arrested and charged with a DUI.
Get the low down on the law and what you can expect if you're arrested and charged with a DUI.
Your DUI and the DMV
Besides the court and criminal charge the Department of Motor Vehicles will also bring you grief.
Besides the court and criminal charge the Department of Motor Vehicles will also bring you grief.
DUI Arrests, Police Reports, Arraignments, and Fees
After you're arrested, booked and released, you'll need to get ready for your arraignment.
After you're arrested, booked and released, you'll need to get ready for your arraignment.
DUI/DWI Charges and Penalties
After a DUI conviction expect fines, license suspension, DUI school, and sometimes jail.
After a DUI conviction expect fines, license suspension, DUI school, and sometimes jail.
Fighting a DUI
You may have options to lessen the sentence, get a reduced charge or get the case dismissed.
You may have options to lessen the sentence, get a reduced charge or get the case dismissed.
Getting Help with a DUI/DWI Charge
There are some things you can do yourself and some which require the help of an attorney.
There are some things you can do yourself and some which require the help of an attorney.
The State of Connecticut is one that has what is known as an “Implied Consent Law”. This means that anyone who operates a motor vehicle has automatically agreed to consent to a blood, breath or urine test to determine his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. The Connecticut DUI laws are rather strict and if you are found to be under the influence of either drugs or alcohol when driving, there is no passing “go” or collecting $200 as you are headed straight for jail.
The DUI Penalties in Connecticut
In Connecticut, any driver with a BAC of .08 or higher are considered to be intoxicated. The penalties for a DUI conviction are listed in the chart below:
Connecticut DUI Penalties
Possible Jail Time
Range of Fines Imposed
License Suspension
First Time Offense
48 hours to 6 months
$500 to $1,000
One Year
Second Offense
120 days to 2 years
$1,000 to $4,000
One Year
Third Offense
1 to 3 years
$2,000 to $8,000
Permanent
Individuals found guilty of a third offense face felony prosecution and their license is suspended permanently, but they can apply for reinstatement after a period of 6 years. Additional penalties for all offenders may include community service; an ignition interlock device to be installed on their vehicle and their car may be towed and impounded for 48 hours.
Get Out of Jail Free Card
The Connecticut Pretrial Alcohol Education Program is available to defendants who have not participated in the program within the past 10 years or those who have a prior DUI conviction. Applicants must be evaluated by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) with a possible recommendation into a ten or fifteen-week educational program. If they successfully complete the program, the court will dismiss all charges against them.
Why You Need a Connecticut DUI Lawyer
If you are arrested in Connecticut for a DUI offense, not only will you be facing harsh penalties, but your driver’s license will automatically be suspended. You may request an administrative hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles within seven days. Whenever you are facing criminal charges, it’s time to hire an experienced drunk driving attorney can help you avoid jail time and keep your license privileges in tact.
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