Third Offense DUI in Connecticut

If you get a third DUI in Connecticut, you will face harsher penalties than if you were getting a first DUI conviction. You will be facing punishment and most likely have to seek treatment for alcoholism because driving while under the influence of alcohol is a serious public danger.

Administrative Penalties

Administrative penalties in the context of DUI offenses concern activities such as losing your driver's license and penalties not assigned by a court.

In Connecticut, a third DUI conviction will result in a permanent loss of your driver's license for at least 6 years. You will also most likely not be able to apply for a work-only driving permit since those with a previous license suspension are not eligible for this permit.

Criminal Penalties

Criminal penalties for DUI convictions generally include jail time, penalties that will appear on the offender's criminal record, and measures determined by a court.

A third DUI conviction in Connecticut calls for a prison sentence of up to 3 years. However, the minimum punishment is 1 year in prison. The offender may also get 100 hours of community service.

You will also have to pay a fine ranging from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on factors like the amount of alcohol in your system at the time of arrest, your driving history, etc. You may also have to go to a treatment program.

The Lookback Period

In determining your punishment for a third DUI, the court will consider your prior record as well as convictions in other states. However, the look-back period in Connecticut is 10 years.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor in Connecticut

DUI is considered a Class C misdemeanor, but if you are convicted of 2nd degree manslaughter or assault with a motor vehicle, either of the preceding charges along with a DUI/DWI, or of substantially similar offenses in other states in the past 10 years, then you will be considered a “persistent operating under the influence felony offender” in Connecticut.

Plea Options

There are 3 basic plea options in criminal matters: pleading guilty, not guilty or plea bargaining. A DUI attorney will be able to help you figure out the best method to take and how you should plead when going before the court.

Getting Legal Help

It is very important to retain a licensed Connecticut DUI attorney before your hearing. The attorney will be able to help you present your defense and reach a more favorable outcome in your case.