An arrest for an alleged DUI could be your first and only interaction with the criminal justice system. It is understandable for you to feel frightened or confused during the process. A DUI conviction can lead to many penalties, such as jail time, the creation of a criminal record, harsh fines, and the loss of your license.

A Manchester DUI lawyer wants to help you avoid this outcome. At Ruane Attorneys, our legal team is ready to explain the state’s drunk driving laws and what a prosecutor must demonstrate at trial to obtain a conviction. We could investigate the facts that led to your arrest and determine whether any evidence resulted from an improper traffic stop. Our lawyers are here to listen to your goals for your case, whether that involves fighting the charges at trial or seeking a fair plea deal.

The Definition of Driving Under the Influence

DUI cases in Manchester and throughout Connecticut revolve around the state’s drunk driving statute. According to Connecticut General Statutes § 14-227a, it is illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence of a foreign substance. While this usually means alcohol, it can also cover street drugs and medications.

Proving Intoxication

There are two ways for prosecutors to attempt to prove this concept. The first is the result of blood, breath, or urine tests. Under the statute, a person with a blood/alcohol content of .08 percent or more is in violation of the law. In other cases where these tests are not present, a prosecutor can introduce evidence, such as a police officer’s observations of a driver’s state, to attempt to show impairment.

A Manchester DUI attorney could help fight back against these allegations in court. Legal counsel could contest the results of DUI tests and challenge an officer’s observations. These strategies help to create reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors.

Helping Drivers Avoid DUI Penalties in Manchester

Most DUIs in Manchester are misdemeanors under state law. Even so, convictions have the potential to impact every part of a person’s life. A conviction allows a court to impose a jail sentence of up to six months. A court may also impose the following penalties:

• A fine of between $500 and $1,000
• A loss of license of at least 45 days
• The installation of an ignition interlock device at the driver’s expense

These general penalties apply to a first DUI conviction with no aggravating factors. If the incident resulted in harm to another person or the defendant had prior DUI convictions, the penalties can be much more severe. The lawyers at our firm are prepared to explain the possible consequences of an intoxicated driving conviction and fight to prevent them.

Speak with a Manchester DUI Attorney Now

Without proper legal counsel, a DUI arrest can impact every part of your life. A conviction for even a first offense can bring jail time, heavy fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. It is crucially important that you are proactive in avoiding these penalties and protecting your future.

Letting a Manchester DUI lawyer handle your case could increase your odds of securing a positive outcome. Whether you wish to work toward a plea deal or fight the allegations at trial, Ruane Attorneys is here for you. Contact us todayto discuss your situation.