First Offense

Oftentimes, a person’s first DUI arrest is their first arrest in general, and the first time they will be dealing with the Danbury, Connecticut court system. This results in people being confused, nervous, and distressed. On this page, you can learn more about the penalties that you will face in Danbury for a 1st time DUI offense.

First Time DUI Penalties

The punishments for first time DUI include; (1) Up to six months imprisonment, mandatory minimum of two days, or six months suspended with probation and 100 hours of community service; (2) Fines between $500.00 and $1,000.00; and (3) 45 days of license suspension and one year of driving with an ignition interlock system.

However, the court will typically offer what is known as diversionary programs, as well as treatment, instead of insisting on the more harsh penalties that could be pursued by the state. This is because DUI is taken very seriously in modern Connecticut society, but the courts generally believe that a first offender deserves the benefit of the doubt.

Pretrial Impaired Driving Intervention Program

The Connecticut Pretrial Impaired Driving Intervention Program (IDIP) offers certain individuals charged with DUI the opportunity to resolve their case without a criminal conviction. Established under C.G.S. § 54-56r, the program is available only to defendants who satisfy the statutory eligibility requirements and are approved for participation by the court. After admission, participants are generally enrolled in the program for one year and must complete the conditions recommended through an evaluation, including either a 12-session alcohol education program or a substance-use treatment program of at least 15 sessions. Depending on the circumstances, the court may also require attendance at a victim impact component. Participants are responsible for the required application, evaluation, and program fees unless those costs are waived under Connecticut’s indigency provisions. Upon successful completion of all required conditions, the pending DUI charge is dismissed. If a participant does not successfully complete the program, the court may terminate their participation and allow the criminal prosecution to continue.

Under 21 Consequences

Consequences for a DUI for those under the age of 21 are similar to that which was stated above, but in some significant ways, they are treated much more harshly. The BAC for those under 18 is .02%. If accused of a DUI, the driver’s license is automatically taken by the arresting officer, and a 48-hour suspension begins immediately.

After the suspension is over, the minor must be accompanied by a guardian to the police station to sign off on the license being returned to the minor. Most notably, the diversionary programs mentioned above, such as the alcohol education program, are not offered to minors because they do not qualify. Further, minors are not able to use their youthful offender defense for the crime of DUI.

Getting Help

It is important, when dealing with a 1st offense DUI in Danbury, to find a DUI defense attorney who can help, as the consequences may affect your life for many years. To speak with a lawyer to ensure the best possible outcome, contact Lady DUI.