If facing an out-of-state DUI, you might wonder how this compares to a DUI in your home state. For our purposes, we will consider an in-state DUI a Connecticut DUI.
Similarities
The biggest similarity between these types of DUIs is that an out of state DUI counts as a Connecticut DUI. This means that an out-of-state DUI will count as a Connecticut DUI. If you receive a subsequent DUI at some point in the state of Connecticut, this DUI will count as your second offense. The out of state DUI counted as the first. For this reason, you should treat your out-of-state DUI like a Connecticut DUI. If convicted, you face the same penalties as a driver who received a DUI within Connecticut.
Differences
Each state has different legislation, procedures, and laws. This is where a DUI in Missouri will differ from a DUI in Maine. There might be similar DUI consequences in both states; however, the specific consequences will vary from state to state. For more information about the specific DUI laws and consequences by state, you can check them out here. This means that in your home state and the state that you got the DUI in, you might face separate consequences. For example, in one state, your license might be suspended for one year. But, in another, it might be suspended for six months. In one state, you might face a fine of $500, and in another, you might not face a fine at all.
Does My Out-of-State DUI Count as a DUI in Connecticut?
Yes – your Connecticut driving record will state that you have received a DUI even if it occurred in another state. You will have to deal with the penalties of a DUI in the state where you were arrested. Also, you have to deal with the penalties in the state of Connecticut. In many cases, this will mean a driving suspension in Connecticut and the state where you were arrested. In addition, you might have to pay fines in both states. You might even serve jail time in both states depending on your situation.
Should I Hire a Lawyer in Connecticut and the State Where I was Arrested?
You want to start with your out-of-state DUI before dealing with the consequences in Connecticut. If you can get your DUI dismissed, you won’t face any issues in Connecticut. For this reason, you should hire an out-of-state lawyer first and fight the DUI in the state where you were charged. If you lose your case and are convicted of a DUI, then you can consider hiring a Connecticut DUI lawyer to help you deal with license suspensions and other issues in Connecticut.
Do I Have to Travel Back to the State Where I was Arrested?
In most cases, you will probably have to make at least one appearance in the state where you were arrested. You can mostly deal with your lawyer over the phone and send forms in the mail, but you might have to appear in court in person, and it is always helpful to appear in person for your DMV hearing. Plan to make travel arrangements to return to the state where you were charged.
These are the most common and general differences between getting a DUI in your home state and getting an out-of-state DUI. It is important that you remember this is just a general basis for you to research your DUI on. You should learn about the specifics of your situation by discussing your case with a lawyer both in the state of Connecticut and in the state that you got your DUI. Depending on other factors, such as previous offenses, criminal history, and the circumstances of the DUI, you might face a unique situation. For more information, and to discuss your case with a DUI lawyer, you can contact me here.
