The criminal courts can impose many different penalties for different criminal offenses. State statutes typically identify minimum and maximum penalties for different crimes. The courts then decide what sentence to impose based on the defendant’s history and other key details.
People accused of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses may have caused crashes. They may have driven in a clearly unsafe manner that led to a traffic stop. Frequently, an elevated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is a key element of the state’s DUI case. People who fail chemical tests could face charges, even if a police officer pulled them over for a completely unrelated concern.
Drivers convicted of DUI offenses are typically at risk of several different punishments. Incarceration or probation is possible. The courts can impose large fines as well. Driver’s license suspensions or revocations are also standard penalties. How long does a DUI-related license suspension typically last?
Prior offenses influence the penalties
The more DUI offenses a driver has on their record, the longer their driver’s license suspension could last. After a first DUI conviction, a driver may lose their license for 45 days and could then be eligible for license reinstatement.
They may need to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in any vehicle they drive and perform tests every time they drive for a year after regaining their license. They typically can only drive to and from work, school, substance abuse treatment programs and probation officer meetings.
After a second conviction, the minimum license suspension is also 45 days. However, the IID requirement following license restoration lasts for three years. Anyone convicted of a third DUI offense faces a permanent revocation of their driver’s license. They can request the reconsideration of that revocation two years after the state revokes their license.
Losing driving privileges even temporarily can be incredibly inconvenient. People may struggle to maintain their jobs and handle basic family matters. A permanent revocation could cause career consequences and could generate thousands of dollars in secondary expenses as people seek alternate means of transportation.
Fighting Connecticut DUI charges is one of the only ways to prevent licensing penalties. Motorists accused of drunk driving may need help exploring their options for responding in criminal court.