Connecticut DUI Law — What You Are Facing
Connecticut DUI law prohibits operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher, or while impaired by alcohol or drugs regardless of BAC. A first offense DUI in Connecticut carries a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to six months in jail (45 day mandatory minimum for certain circumstances), a 45-day license suspension, and one year with an ignition interlock device.
Second and third offense penalties escalate significantly and can include mandatory jail time and multi-year license suspensions. A DUI also triggers an administrative DMV hearing separate from the criminal proceedings — you must request this hearing within seven days of arrest or your license is automatically suspended.
How We Challenge DUI Charges in Danbury
Many DUI cases are more defensible than clients initially believe. Our first step is a thorough review of the police report, the dashcam and bodycam footage, and the breathalyzer calibration records.
Common defenses in Connecticut DUI cases include unlawful traffic stops, improper administration of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer machine malfunction or improper calibration, rising BAC arguments where the alcohol was still absorbing at the time of the test, and medical conditions that mimic intoxication symptoms.
We also evaluate every DUI case for eligibility in Connecticut’s alcohol education diversion programs, which can result in the charge being dismissed after program completion for eligible first time offenders.
The DMV Hearing — Do Not Miss This
When you are arrested for DUI in Connecticut, you have seven days to request a hearing with the DMV to contest the administrative suspension of your license. If you do not request this hearing, your license is automatically suspended regardless of what happens in criminal court.
We handle DMV hearings for our DUI clients and fight the administrative suspension at the same time we are fighting the criminal charge. These are two separate proceedings and both matter.
Danbury Superior Court DUI Cases
DUI cases in Danbury are heard at Danbury Superior Court at 146 White Street. Our attorneys have handled DUI cases in this courthouse and know the prosecutors, the judges, and the procedures. That familiarity is a real advantage when negotiating outcomes or trying cases.
DUI Defense in Surrounding Western CT Towns
We handle DUI cases throughout western Connecticut. See our dedicated DUI defense pages for the surrounding communities:
Frequently Asked Questions
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