When you are arrested for a DUI in Connecticut, you probably have many concerns about what happens next and the consequences that you will face. One consequence that can interrupt your personal and professional life is having your driver’s license suspended by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This suspension process is independent of the criminal court process that you may face. On this page, you can learn more about license suspensions associated with first, second, third, and subsequent DUIs in Connecticut and what to do if you face a suspension.
If you face a first offense DUI in Connecticut, the potential driver’s license suspension will last 45 days. Once the license is reinstated, you need to drive with an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle(s) for one year.
If you face a second offense DUI in Connecticut, you also face a 45 day license suspension, followed. by use of an IID in any vehicle that you drive for three years. For the first year after the driver’s license is reinstated, you can only travel to ignition interlock device service centers, school, work, or substance abuse treatment programs.
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If you face a third or subsequence offense DUI in Connecticut, your driver’s license will be revoked for two years. After this period, you face a 15 year minimum period of driving with an IID in your vehicle. The IID requirement can be lifted by the DMV Commissioner after 15 years. You will have to show the commissioner good cause that your license should be reinstated or that the IID requirement should be lifted. Voluntary participation in an alcohol or substance abuse treatment program can help your case.
As mentioned above, the DMV has the power to suspend your driver’s license, even if you are never convicted of a DUI. A DUI arrest alone will trigger the DMV process as well as the license suspension based on the offense you face. The DMV process is separate from the DUI process, and even if you are ultimately found not guilty of driving under the influence, the DMV may still suspend your license for implied consent issues, failing a blood alcohol content (BAC) test, and more.
You can fight a driver’s license suspension by the DMV through a DMV per se hearing. At this hearing, you may have a lawyer represent you and fight for you to keep your license. There are four elements that you can fight in a DMV hearing. The first is if you were actually driving the vehicle. The second is if the police had probable cause to stop and arrest you. The third is if you were actually arrested. The fourth is if you did or did not fail or refuse to take a BAC test.
If you want to fight to keep your license, the best way to do so is by having legal representation. A lawyer will know how to challenge one of the elements listed above and help you through this process. For more information, call us and set up a free consultation with one of our lawyers. We are happy to help you through this experience and fight for your license.
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