Stamford, Connecticut DWI Criminal Defense Attorney

Being arrested for DWI is a serious offense that can have major repercussions, including fines, jail time, and loss of driving privileges. It is very important that anyone facing an DWI (DWI) charge understand what challenges they will encounter. Seeking the legal advice of an assertive and knowledgeable DWI defense attorney will help you understand all of your rights and options.

Were you arrested for DWI in Stamford, Connecticut?

Once you have been cited for violating the Connecticut DWI statute, the state initiates two separate, yet simultaneous legal actions against you. The criminal action is in response to the ticket that was issued to you, while the administrative action is brought against your driver's license by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. While both actions can result in the suspension of your Connecticut driving privileges, it is important to remember that there may be additional penalties to consider and each action must be handled separately.

DUI / DWI Penalties for First Time Offenders

• Driving Privileges and DWI - In Stamford, Connecticut, a first time DWI / DUI conviction results in the revocation of Connecticut driving privileges for 1 year.
• Jail Time - A first time DWI / DUI offender faces jail time of up to 6 months in jail, with a mandatory minimum of 2 days. In lieu of imprisonment, the court may require the first time offender to serve probation for 6 months and complete 100 hours of community service.
• Monetary Fines - In Stamford, Connecticut, fines for a first time DWI are a minimum of $500.00, up to a maximum of $1,000.00.
• Commercial Drivers - Commercial drivers are in violation of the DWI statute with a BAC level of 0.04. A first time DUI / DWI conviction will result in the loss of the commercial driver's license for 1 year, while any subsequent DWI offenses will result in a lifetime loss of the commercial license in Connecticut.
• Chemical Test Refusal - Refusing to submit to a test when requested by law enforcement will result in the revocation of driver's license in Connecticut for 6 months.
• Alcohol Evaluation - Successful completion of a DWI knowledge test and chemical assessment may be required for reinstatement of Connecticut driving privileges.

Connecticut Anti-Drunk Driving Laws

Driving is a privilege in Connecticut, and under Connecticut's Implied Consent Law any person who operates a motor vehicle is presumed to have given his or her consent to a test to determine BAC level. You are legally intoxicated if your BAC is .08 or above. If you are under 21 years of age, you are legally intoxicated at a .02 BAC level or higher.

Connecticut has enacted strong new measures to combat impaired driving. Stiff penalties, including mandatory sentencing and strict enforcement of our laws send a clear message that Driving under the influence will not be tolerated on Connecticut's roadways.

It is possible to recognize drivers who may have been drinking or using other drugs. They may:

• Weave within their lane.
• Run off the pavement.
• Drive on the wrong side of the road.
• Stop too quickly or slowly.
• Disregard stop signs or other signals.
• Drive too quickly or slowly.

DWI Subsequent Offenses

Penalties are increasingly more severe for any additional DWI violations. Due to the complexity of DWI laws in Connecticut, you may not be aware of rights and options, including any defenses you might use. For this reason, an assertive and knowledgeable attorney can guide you through this challenging process. Please contact a Connecticut DWI or DUI defense attorney for a quick and easy consultation.