1. Talking to Police Without a Lawyer Present
After a DUI arrest, you might feel tempted to “explain” your side. In Connecticut, anything you say can and will be used against you. Many clients think cooperating fully means telling their story right away—but police are trained to gather evidence, not to clear your name.
Case Example: A Stamford driver admitted to “just having two beers” during a roadside conversation. That statement later became key evidence for the prosecutor, even though the breathalyzer results were slightly below the legal limit.
What to do instead: Politely state, “I want to speak to an attorney,” and stop talking.
2. Assuming a DUI Case is Unwinnable
Many people plead guilty right away because they believe there’s no defense. That’s a costly assumption. Connecticut DUI law is technical—mistakes in traffic stops, breathalyzer calibration, or probable cause can all be grounds for dismissal or reduction.
3. Overlooking Field Sobriety Test Challenges
Many drivers don’t realize that field sobriety tests are subjective and can be challenged. Poor weather, uneven surfaces, medical conditions, or even nervousness can affect your performance.
Case Example: A driver with a knee injury “failed” the walk-and-turn test, but medical records proved the injury, and the court excluded the test results.
4. Ignoring the DMV License Suspension Process
In Connecticut, you have a very short window (currently 7 days from notice) to request a hearing to challenge the automatic license suspension. Miss it, and you’ll face suspension even if your criminal case is later dismissed.
Case Example: A driver avoided suspension entirely by requesting the DMV hearing promptly and challenging the evidence.
5. Posting About Your Arrest on Social Media
Anything you post can be used against you. Prosecutors may pull your posts as evidence.
6. Driving While Your License is Suspended
Getting caught driving on a suspended license adds new criminal charges and makes you appear reckless to the court.
Case Example: A defendant faced jail time when caught driving to work while suspended, despite a pending plea deal for the DUI.
7. Choosing the Wrong Attorney
Not all lawyers handle DUI cases, and not all DUI lawyers know Connecticut law in depth. Hiring an attorney unfamiliar with local court procedures can hurt your case.
Case Example: A client who initially hired a divorce lawyer lost valuable defense opportunities due to a misunderstanding of Connecticut-specific plea programs.
8. Failing to Complete Court-Ordered Programs
If you’re granted entry into Connecticut’s Impaired Driving Intervention Program (IDIP) or another diversionary program, failing to complete it will land you back in court.
Case Example: A client failed to attend two required classes, leading to program termination and reinstatement of the criminal case.
9. Not Gathering Evidence Early
Witness statements, dashcam footage, and surveillance video can disappear quickly. Waiting to start your defense makes it harder to challenge the state’s case.
10. Thinking a First DUI Isn’t Serious
Even a first offense can lead to fines, license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, and a criminal record. Treat it seriously from day one.
Case Example: A first-time offender was shocked to face mandatory ignition interlock installation and high insurance premiums for years.
FAQ: Connecticut DUI Arrests
Q1: What is the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Connecticut?
A: For most drivers, it’s 0.08%. For commercial drivers, it’s 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, it’s 0.02%.
Q2: Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?
A: You may face a license suspension unless you request a DMV hearing within 7 days.
Q3: What happens at a Connecticut DUI arraignment?
A: The judge will inform you of your rights, ensure you understand the charges against you, and address bail if necessary. This is also when diversionary program eligibility can be discussed.
Q4: How soon should I hire a DUI lawyer?
A: Immediately. Early legal action can protect your license and preserve evidence.
Q5: Do I have to take a breathalyzer test?
A: You can refuse, but refusal triggers an automatic license suspension under Connecticut’s implied consent law.
Bottom Line: A Connecticut DUI arrest is a legal emergency. Avoid these mistakes, act quickly, and work with an experienced DUI defense attorney to protect your future.