Allegations of a driving under the influence (DUI) offense can arise after a traffic stop or a crash. Poor driving skills and elevated blood alcohol levels might lead to a DUI arrest in Connecticut. Although there may be other explanations for the situation, police officers may rush to the wrong conclusion about the reason for a crash or unusual behavior in traffic.
Many people accused of a DUI offense immediately plead guilty. They assume that they cannot defend against the allegations they face or want to avoid the embarrassment of an actual criminal trial. Unfortunately, a guilty plea means accepting a lifetime criminal record in many cases. It may also lead to an assortment of court-imposed penalties. The situation leading to a DUI arrest and the prior record of those accused can influence the consequences that the court may impose.
Penalties increase with each charge
The penalties possible after a first DUI conviction can include between $500 and $1,000 in fines. The defendant also risks up to six months in jail with a mandatory minimum of two days served. The courts can potentially decide to sentence someone to probate and community service. A conviction also results in a 45-day license suspension, followed by a yearlong requirement to have an ignition interlock device in any vehicle the defendant drives.
A second DUI conviction leads to more serious penalties. The fine increases to between $1,000 and $4,000, while the jail time increases to up to two years. The same licensing and IID penalties apply. Third and subsequent offenses carry the most serious penalties.
The courts can order the defendant to pay between $2,000 and $8,000 in fines. They may serve up to three years with a mandatory minimum of one year. The state also revokes the defendant’s driver’s license for two years, followed by a potentially lifelong IID requirement.
There are many ways to defend against DUI allegations. Some people question the legality of a traffic stop. Others may focus their efforts on presenting medical evidence to explain test results. Choosing to fight DUI charges is often a better option than pleading guilty and accepting whatever penalties the courts choose to impose. Drivers who avoid DUI convictions can also avoid jail time, financial setbacks and license penalties.
