Getting pulled over for drunk driving in Connecticut will result in DUI charges if your blood alcohol content is 0.08%—or lower if you are underage or driving a commercial vehicle. While the simplest way to avoid these charges is to never get behind the wheel if you’ve consumed alcohol, there may come a time when you or someone you know is arrested for this. To help you prepare for this possibility, here’s what you should expect to happen.

What to Expect After Being Arrested for a DUI

Will I be held in jail?

Yes. If you are found to be under the influence, you’ll be arrested and transported to a police station where you’ll be detained until your bail hearing.

Luckily, if you can post bail, you will be allowed to go home until your official court date.

How is bail handled?

Bail amounts vary depending on the local jurisdiction of the arrest and any past convictions you have. Depending on the circumstances, you can expect the required bail amount to fall anywhere between a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

If you are unable to cover this amount, you can secure funds from a bail bondsman using collateral and paying standard fees. This will allow you to go home to wait for your court appearance. 

What are the penalties for first-time offenders?

If you are a first-time DUI offender in Connecticut, you may receive a prison sentence of up to six months. However, these sentences are often suspended with a specific amount of community service. In terms of fines, you should expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $1,000.

Your license will also be suspended for 45 days. When you get back on the road, you will have to use a vehicle with an ignition interlock for a year.

What If I have previous DUI convictions?

Second offenses will receive 120 days to two years in prison, as well as probation with 100 hours of community service. Fines range from $1,000 to $4,000. License suspension terms are similar to a first-time offense, but carry additional restrictions as to where you can go during the first year of driving.

Third offenses face one to three years in prison, along with probation and 100 hours of community service. The fines fall between $2,000 and $8,000. Your driver's license will be revoked with the possibility of reinstatement in six years with special restrictions.

If you or someone you love has been arrested for a DUI, don’t make the jail experience longer than it has to be. Instead, reach out to DiAdamo-Tracey & Big Steve Bail Bonds. Providing comprehensive bail bonds in New Haven County, CT, the team is recognized for quick and clear service to get you back home. To learn more about their services, visit this bail bond agency online or call (203) 787-2245 to discuss your situation.