Connecticut’s impaired driving laws are certainly strict, and being convicted of a DUI or DWI in the state is no minor crime. For many, an impaired driving charge is their first and only encounter with the justice system, and the experience can be daunting. Don’t worry– Attorneys at Pattis & Paz are not only an experienced lawyers, they are also known by clients as fair, caring, and non-judgmental, so you know you’ll be heard and respected throughout the entire process. 

Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) mean the same thing in the state of Connecticut, and this is considered a serious charge. DUI is usually charged when a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher, which is "per se" operating under the influence, but can also be charged under common law by showing that the driver is unduly impaired by any substance, including marijuana.

If you’re convicted of DUI and this is your first offense, you’ll face a number of penalties, including:

Additionally, if you’re convicted of a second or subsequent DUI offense, you’ll face even harsher penalties, including:

It’s important to remember that, in Connecticut, a second DUI offense is a felony. This means that if convicted, you would suffer the consequences that come along with being a convicted felon, including submitting a DNA sample.

There are also separate penalties for 3rd or subsequent DUI convictions within a 10 year period. They include a 1-year mandatory minimum of jail time with up to 3 years of incarceration, plus up to $8,000 in fines.

Have you heard of people getting a DUI charge removed completely from their record? This refers to something we like to call a "0" offender. In this case, it's technically your first DUI arrest but you are eligible to have it wiped clean by taking the IDIP (Impaired Driving Education Course), which would not result in any conviction. This course of action requires you to take classes and then your charge would be dismissed. This would still result in a potential license suspension, but there would be no conviction, so if you are arrested for a DUI for a second time within a 10-year period, you would still be considered a "first offender." Learn more about this in the video below:

One of the most urgent concerns after a DUI charge is the status of your driver's license. In Connecticut, you can contest your license suspension at a DMV hearing, but you must request this hearing within 7 days of your arrest. Success in this hearing can prevent license suspension, preserving your ability to drive.

Ensuring Fair Insurance Treatment

Another common concern among those charged with DUI is what will happen to their car insurance. In Connecticut, your insurance company can choose to cancel your policy if you’re convicted of DUI. Additionally, your rates may go up significantly. However, it’s important to note that you have the right to appeal the cancellation of your insurance policy. If you do so within 30 days of the cancellation, your insurance company must provide you with a hearing. At the hearing, you’ll have the opportunity to present evidence that you are not a high-risk driver and that your policy should not be canceled.

Get Experienced DUI Defense With Pattis & Paz LLC

If you’ve been charged with DUI in Connecticut, securing a seasoned attorney is critical. The team at Pattis & Paz LLC has a strong track record of defending clients against DUI charges. We work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a free consultation, and gain the advantage of having Pattis & Paz LLC on your side.