The penalties that come with a DUI (driving under the influence) conviction in Connecticut are serious. Drivers with multiple convictions for similar offenses face even more serious consequences, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and lengthy sentences in jail. Because the stakes are so high, anyone in Connecticut facing a DUI conviction should hire a DUI defense attorney, especially if they have a record for similar offenses. The guide below will walk you through some of the key aspects regarding Connecticut’s DUI laws.

A Guide to Connecticut Law & Multiple DUIs

Understanding the Lookback Period

Under Connecticut law, prosecutors may take any conviction within the previous 10 years into account when filing charges. This is known as the “lookback period.” While a DUI conviction from 15 or 20 years ago won’t impact the outcome of a new case today, a nine-year-old offense may. The more previous convictions you have during the lookback period, the more serious the penalties for new charges will be.

Penalties for a Second Offense

Connecticut drivers convicted of a second DUI within a 10-year period may be sentenced to up to two years in prison, with a minimum of 120 days served and 100 hours of community service. You may also have to pay a fine of up to $4,000 and will lose your driving privileges for 45 days. When your driving privileges are reinstated, you’ll have to use an ignition interlock device for three years.

More Than Three Convictions

A third DUI offense in a 10-year period is considered a felony in Connecticut, punishable by a maximum of three years in prison and fines of up to $8,000. Your driver’s license will also be permanently revoked, although a skilled DUI defense attorney may be able to get your privileges restored after two years.

If you’ve been charged with an alcohol-related offense, Gilbert P. Kaback, Attorney at Law will work with you to mount an effective DUI defense. This law firm has protected the rights of individuals throughout the Colchester area for over 22 years. Visit their website for more information about their services, and call (860) 537-0874 to schedule your initial consultation today.