Hartford DUI Defense Attorneys
Protecting your rights when charged with drunk driving in Hartford or Manchester, CT
The law doesn’t care if you’re out on the highway or two blocks from home – a DUI charge is a much more serious offense than a simple traffic ticket. Driving under the influence is a criminal charge that can have consequences like a loss of license, financial penalties, probation, increased insurance premiums and even jail time. It can also affect certain job opportunities, as well as your reputation.
Nobody thinks a drunk driving arrest could happen to them. No matter what the circumstances, being arrested can be a traumatic and confusing experience. You might be worried your arrest will follow you forever and not know who to talk to. The good news is that an arrest doesn’t necessarily mean a conviction and you have the right to fight any criminal charges against you.
If you’re facing DUI or OUI charges in Hartford, the defense attorneys at Barry, Taylor & Levesque, LLC can help. We put our knowledge to work for you to build a strong and strategic defense to get you the best result possible for your case. We’re effective, discreet and experienced. Call us today.
Legal intoxication and Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Per Connecticut G.S. Chapter 227a, you’re legally intoxicated if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher. If you’re under the age of 21, you’re considered legally intoxicated if your BAC is .02 or higher. Our state also has an implied consent law, which means that everyone who operates a motor vehicle consents to a test determining their BAC. If you’re found operating your car, truck or bike under the influence, you may face a variety of criminal and civil penalties. Our attorneys can help.
What are the penalties for DUI and OUI charges in Hartford?
When you’re facing DUI charges, it’s important to understand the potential penalties so you can go in prepared and informed. Our legal team explains the charges against you in detail, building a customized strategy that benefits your best interests and circumstances.
Following are some of the penalties for drunk driving in Connecticut:
- First offense. From two days or up to six months in jail or up to six months’ probation and 100 hours of community service; $500-$1000 fine; loss of license for 45 days; one year ignition interlock device on vehicle (IID).
- Second offense. From 120 days or up to two years in jail; probation and 100 hours of community service; $1000-$4000 fine; loss of license for 45 days; one year IID on vehicle; limitations on driving first year after regaining license
- Third and subsequent offenses. From one year to three years in jail; probation and 100 hours of community service; $2000-$8000 fine; revocation of license.
Additionally, with second, third and following DUI convictions, the court can order offenders to submit to alcohol and drug testing through the court and undergo treatment programs.
Although third-time DUI offenders have their licenses revoked by the court, there are some cases where you can request to have it reinstated. The commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles may determine that you have met the correct requirements, like completing a drug and alcohol treatment program and agree to use a vehicle equipped with an IID.
Our attorneys also have specialized experience in assisting clients charged with assault or manslaughter with a motor vehicle.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An IID is a type of breath test that’s installed directly into a vehicle. The driver blows into it, and the device determines the drivers BAC. If the driver has a certain amount of alcohol in their system, the vehicle won’t start. The IIC also records the results of these tests for law enforcement to review. Connecticut residents convicted of drunk driving offenses are required to install IIDs in their vehicles for specified periods after restoration of their drivers’ licenses.
Can I get a DUI for driving while I’m on medication?
Yes, you can. If the officer who pulled you over determines that you’re under the influence of prescription drugs, they can arrest and charge you for DUI. In fact, you could be arrested for allegedly being impaired by OTC drugs like cough or cold medication that makes you drowsy. Individuals who take medications with side effects of drowsiness or other impairments should refrain from driving.
Why do you need a skilled Hartford DUI defense lawyer?
A DUI conviction on your record can have a big impact on the rest of your life. And, because of the multiple penalties that can come along with a conviction, don’t leave things up to chance. With a determined defense attorney on your side, you can greatly increase your chances for a favorable outcome and a bright future. Our services help with:
A detailed investigation of your case
Our attorneys go through the circumstances of your arrest in fine detail, searching for valuable evidence. We may find that the arresting officer acted unlawfully, or that your field or lab tests were handled improperly. Our job is to ensure that you were not unfairly arrested and that you are not unfairly convicted.
Avoiding a criminal record
Having a DUI or OUI conviction on your record can impact your profession life and reputation, as it can show up on various background checks for five years or more. One small mistake can follow you for a long time, and it’s our job to work to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Preventing loss of your drivers’ license
Without a drivers’ license and reliable transportation, you may find it difficult to get and keep a job. If you’re charged with drunk driving in Hartford, we use all our resources to help you keep your drivers’ license. And even if you’re convicted, we’ll negotiate on your behalf to hold on to your license so you can continue to work or go to school.
Strong Hartford DUI defense attorneys on your side
At Barry, Taylor & Levesque, LLC, we know a DUI charge and conviction can entirely upend your life. Our years of experience with these types of cases give us the knowledge and tenacity you need for a successful outcome. We’re ready to help – call us today. We’re located minutes off I-384 in Manchester. To schedule a consultation with one of our criminal defense lawyers in Hartford or Manchester, please call 860-649-4400 or fill out our contact form.