Second Offense

A second New London DUI charge might seem like a nightmare. You never intended to get a first DUI, and now you are facing a second! There are many important things that you need to know if you are a 2nd DUI offender in Connecticut, including additional penalties that you might face. While you might think that because you have been through this process before you know what to do, every DUI is different, and the stakes are higher the second time around. Because of this, it is a good idea to contact a local DUI lawyer who has handled repeat offenses before. On this page, you can learn more about the second offense and the best ways to defend yourself.

New London Second DUI Penalties

DUI penalties increase with each conviction. This is because the state is trying to deter you from driving while under the influence for your safety and the safety of others. Prosecutors and lawmakers hope that by making the penalties more serious, people will think twice before getting behind the wheel after consuming drugs or alcohol. Of course, each DUI situation is different, and no one wants to keep getting charged with DUIs. However, if you find yourself in this situation, familiarize yourself with the penalties that you face below:

• A fine of up to $4,000. As you are probably well aware, the maximum fine for a first offense is $1,000, so this is a significant increase.
• A prison sentence of up to two years, 120 days of which constitute a mandatory minimum sentence. This is much more significant than the six month jail term that you faced the first time around. What’s more, second offenders are more liable to have to serve their sentence than first offenders are. While this is not a guarantee, it is something that you should consider. Alternatively, you could face a probation period of two years. If this is an option for you, you would also have to serve 100 hours of community service.
• A 45 day driver’s license suspension. This suspension is the same length as one imposed by the DMV for a first offender. However, the ignition interlock device requirements differ the second time around. For a first DUI offense, a person must use an ignition interlock device for a year after their license is reinstated. This ignition interlock period increases to three years for the second offense. In addition, for the first year after the license is reinstated, a driver can only travel to work, school, treatment, and ignition interlock device service centers.

As you well know, there can be additional penalties that do not come from the court or the DMV. You may face the suspension or even revocation of a professional license after a second DUI offense. Your insurance rates could also increase, you could face additional fees, and your personal reputation may take a hit.

Also keep in mind that if you used a diversionary program for your first DUI offense, you cannot use this again. You will have to face the full charges and potential conviction.

Get Started on Your Defense

It is never too soon to get started on a defense for a second New London DUI charge. If you are interested in doing this, reach out to our office as soon as possible. We can discuss your situation in a free consultation and help you establish the best plan as you move forward with the court process. You don’t have to go through this alone!