Hartford Felony DUI Attorney 

Is a DUI a Felony in CT?

Traditionally, a first DUI is not a felony in Connecticut. What constitutes a felony DUI in CT is when the penalty is more than two years. Therefore, a second DUI offense within 10 years is a felony, as well as third and subsequent DUI offenses.

Alcohol Education Program

First DUI offenders in this state are typically eligible for an Alcohol Education Program. If all the requirements of this program are met, and there are no additional DUI offenses within a year, the charges are dismissed and the defendant's record is expunged. A second DUI offense within a 10 year period would then count as a first offense, carrying possible jail time. A third DUI offense would be charged as felony. If you are facing felony DUI charges, it is imperative to retain the services of an experienced Connecticut DUI lawyer.

What are the Penalties for Felony DUI in Connecticut?

At Carlson & Dumeer, LLC, both partners can work on your case, so you have the benefit of two Hartford criminal defense lawyers, along with the support of a team of experts and consultants as well. One of our partners formerly worked under a State prosecutor and is well aware of how they think and construct their cases. We can use that knowledge to your advantage. Our team can dissect every piece of evidence against you to build a powerful criminal defense strategy. We have taken on countless DUI cases with an impressive history of success. Go to this link for a free case evaluation.

Criminal penalties for felony DUI can be severe. They include:

• Jail time up to 2 years (with a mandatory minimum of 120 consecutive days)
• Fines of $1,000 to $4,000
• Probation with 100 hours community service

Administrative penalties include license suspension for 45 days (or for underage DUI, until age 21, whichever is longer) followed by 3 years of a required ignition interlock device. For a blood alcohol content greater than 1.6%, there is a mandatory minimum 1 year license revocation. You can rest assured that there are several possible defenses to DUI charges.

Understanding Felony DUI in Hartford, CT

In Hartford, the implications of a felony DUI charge can be particularly daunting, especially given the city's unique challenges with traffic safety and alcohol-related incidents. Local law enforcement, including the Hartford Police Department, actively monitors DUI offenses, which can lead to heightened scrutiny and more severe penalties for repeat offenders. If you find yourself facing felony DUI charges in Hartford, it’s crucial to understand the local legal landscape and the resources available to you.

Residents may also be aware of the Hartford Community Court, which offers programs aimed at addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, including substance abuse. While these programs can provide alternatives to traditional penalties, they are often contingent on the nature of the offense and the offender's willingness to engage in rehabilitation. This is particularly relevant for those facing felony DUI charges, as the court may consider participation in such programs during sentencing.

Local drivers often express concerns about the impact of a felony DUI on their employment and personal lives. With many Hartford residents relying on their vehicles for commuting to work or school, the potential for license suspension can create significant hardships. Additionally, the financial burden of fines, legal fees, and increased insurance rates can add to the stress of navigating a felony DUI charge. Understanding these pain points is essential for anyone facing such charges in Hartford.

At Carlson & Dumeer, LLC, we recognize the specific challenges that Hartford residents face when dealing with felony DUI charges. Our team is committed to providing personalized support and guidance, ensuring that you are informed about your rights and options. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system while working to minimize the impact of these charges on your life.