First Offense DUI in Connecticut

The state of Connecticut utilizes both criminal and administrative penalties when resolving first DUI in Connecticut criminal cases. The following outlines the penalties applicable only to a first offense DUI charge for an of age, private operator, and in turn, minors violating zero tolerance laws, juveniles, and commercial drivers must seek out legal counsel to determine the specific penalties they face.

Administrative Penalties

• First offense DUI in Connecticut results in administrative license suspension of one (1) year

• Refusals to submit under implied consent laws in Connecticut result in a mandatory administrative license suspension of six (6) months

• Vehicle involved in DUI arrest must be towed and impounded for two (2) days

• Ignition interlock installation may be required at discretion of courts for first offenders to reinstate or obtain hardship/occupational license during suspension period

Criminal Penalties

• First offense convictions of DUI in Connecticut result in mandatory minimum periods of incarceration set at two (2) days with the potential of not more than six (6) months

• Jail sentence may be suspended in light of sentence to one hundred hours (100) of community service

• Fines range from minimum of $500 to maximum of $1000 in first offense DUI cases in Connecticut, but fine amount will not cover court costs, costs of reinstatement, or costs of completing other terms of sentence

• Convictions undergo ten (10) year look back period under Connecticut law, which means first offense convictions will influence future DUI charges in terms of sentencing and penalties, if occurring with next ten (10) years

Getting Legal Help

For more information and insight into first offense DUI in Connecticut, including help with mounting a viable criminal defense case seeking either dismissal or reduction of charges, consult with a Delaware DUI lawyer to learn more.