Have You or a Loved One Been Arrested or Accused of
DUI in Fairfield County
If you have been pulled over while driving and are sure the reason is suspicion of Driving Under the Influence, it is critical to remain calm. While no one condones drinking and driving, if it happens, you are going to have to deal with the reality of the situation. Please continue reading and we will discuss; steps you can take during the process, understanding what your rights are, and what to do based on that information.
We understand how stressful things can be
What To Do If You Are Pulled Over For Suspicion Of DUI In Connecticut
- Pull over safely and turn off the car engine
- Place your hands on the steering while keeping them visible
- Be calm, polite, and cooperative, but remember your rights (see list ->)
- Have your drivers license, registration, and insurance handy to provide when asked for it
- Do not consent to a vehicle search
- If you are asked to provide a field sobriety test, you have the right to refuse. We will discuss what this means in our FAQ section
- Politely state your right to not have to answer questions beyond basic information
- Contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as you possibly can
What Are Your Rights When Pulled Over On Suspicion Of DUI
- You have the right to remain silent
- You are not required to answer questions as to if you have been drink or where where you have been drinking. Remember, regardless of your state, to be polite and remain calm.
- Be calm, polite, and cooperative, but remember your rights
- You have the right to refuse a field sobriety test
- You have the right to refuse a portable breathalyzer test. Please note, this could result in a suspension of your drivers license.
- You have the right to request an attorney
Connecticut DUI Laws, Penalties & Facts
- The legal limit for Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) in Connecticut is 0.08% for people 21 years of age and older and 0.02% for those under the age of 21.
- First Offense DUI - Up to six months in jail, fines, and license suspension
- Second Offense DUI (w/in 10 years)- Up to two years in jail, fines, license suspension, and more
- Third Offense & Subsequent DUI ((w/in 10 years) - Up to three years in prison, community service, fines, license suspension, and more
If you have been pulled over while driving and are sure the reason is suspicion of Driving Under the Influence, it is critical to remain calm. While no one condones drinking and driving, if it happens, you are going to have to deal with the reality of the situation. Please note that these laws and penalties are not fully comprehensive, are subject to change, and are only to be used as informational guidelines only.
“What Legal Rights Do I Have During a DUI Suspicion Stop in Connecticut.”
Please Refer To The FAQ Section Below
Will I Lose My Drivers License?
Your license will be suspended for 45 days following a DUI arrest. After the suspension, you’ll be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for 6 months for a first offense.
What Happens If I refuse a breathalyzer test in Connecticut?
You can refuse a breathalyzer test, but under Connecticut’s Implied Consent Law, refusal will result in an automatic 45-day license suspension and a requirement to install an IID for one year.
What If I'm Stopped and Request An Attorney Immediately?
If you’re stopped for suspicion of DUI in Connecticut and you immediately request to speak with your attorney, here’s what you can expect:
- The police must stop questioning you once you invoke your right to an attorney. This means they cannot continue to ask you about your activities, where you’ve been, or if you’ve been drinking.
- However, requesting an attorney does not halt the entire DUI investigation process. The officer may still:
- Ask you to perform field sobriety tests
- Request that you take a breathalyzer test
- Observe your behavior and appearance for signs of intoxication
- It’s important to note that while you have the right to an attorney, the police are not required to provide you with immediate access to one during a roadside stop. They must only ensure you have the opportunity to speak with an attorney before any custodial interrogation takes place.
- If you’re arrested and taken to the police station, you will be given the opportunity to call a lawyer, especially if you’ve requested to speak with one
- Remember that refusing to take chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine) can result in automatic license suspension under Connecticut’s Implied Consent Law, even if you’re requesting an attorney
- While waiting to speak with your attorney, it’s crucial to remain silent and not volunteer any information about your activities or alcohol consumption. Any statements you make can be used against you in court.
- If you start a conversation with the police about your arrest while waiting to speak to an attorney, they may resume questioning you.
In general, while it’s your right to request an attorney, it’s also important to be cooperative and respectful during the stop. The best course of action is to remain calm, provide basic identification information if requested, and politely decline to answer any questions about your activities until you’ve had the opportunity to consult with your attorney.
Can I get my DUI charge reduced or dismissed in Connecticut?
Possibly. First-time offenders may be eligible for the Pretrial Alcohol Education Program, which could lead to dismissal of charges upon successful completion. An experienced DUI attorney can explore this and other options to potentially reduce or dismiss your charges.
What to Look for When
Hiring The Right Attorney
Remember to meet with potential attorneys for consultations to assess their communication style, strategy for your case, and overall compatibility before making your decision.
01
Expertise & Experience
- Extensive knowledge of DUI laws and regulations in your state
- Specialization in DUI defense rather than general practice
- Proven track record of successfully handling DUI cases
- Experience with various types of DUI charges (high BAC, accidents, repeat offenses)
03
Communication & Service
- Clear communication of legal concepts and case strategy
- Responsiveness to client questions and concerns
- Keeps clients informed throughout the legal process
- Empathy and understanding of the client's situation
05
Professional Credentials
- Membership in professional organizations like the National College for DUI Defense
- Positive reputation among peers and former clients
- Good standing with the state bar association
02
Legal Skills
- Strong negotiation skills for plea bargaining
- Trial experience and courtroom confidence
- Ability to challenge evidence (e.g. breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests)
- Up-to-date knowledge of current DUI laws and legal strategies
04
Local Knowledge
- Familiarity with local courts, judges, and prosecutors
- Understanding of local DUI programs and diversion options
06
Personal Qualities
- Passion and tenacity in defending clients
- Attention to detail in reviewing case evidence
- Strong research skills to build a comprehensive defense
- Ethical conduct and integrity
