Most traffic stops end with the issuance of a simple ticket. However, more serious allegations, such as those involving intoxicated driving, can result in a person’s arrest and their required appearance in criminal court. In these scenarios, it is crucial to seek representation from a hardworking attorney.

Drunk driving is a serious matter under the state’s criminal code, and even first convictions could require you to serve time in jail. The court can also impose heavy fines and order the suspension of your driver’s license. Reaching out to a New Britain DUI lawyer could help you to avoid these unfortunate outcomes and protect your ability to continue driving.

What a Prosecutor Must Show to Secure a DUI Conviction

State law provides two separate definitions of DUI under Connecticut General Statute § 14-227a. Police making an arrest or prosecutors pursuing charges in court can use either of these two definitions in their case. They must prove either beyond a reasonable doubt.

DUI Due to an Excessive Blood/Alcohol Content

Every operator of a motor vehicle on the roads in New Britain gives their implied consent to submit to a blood, breath, or urine test upon reasonable suspicion of DUI. The result of this test is one way for a prosecutor to attempt to prove drunk driving. The legal limit for safe driving in New Britain and the rest of the state is .08 percent. If a prosecutor can point to the results of a test that indicates these findings, this can be powerful evidence of fault for a DUI offense.

Officer’s Observations of a Driver

The second means to prove intoxication relies on an arresting officer’s observations of a driver. The officer may allege that a driver was swerving in a lane or otherwise driving erratically. They may also introduce evidence of the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, or a failed field sobriety test.

The state’s definition of DUI means that a jury may convict a driver based solely upon these observations. However, a New Britain attorney who has handled DUI cases could contest an arresting officer’s recollection of events.

Impact of a DUI Conviction in New Britain

Every arrest for a DUI allegation is a serious matter, and even a first conviction can come with life-altering consequences. According to CT Gen Stat. § 14-227a, a DUI conviction requires a driver to pay a fine of between $500 and $1,000. A conviction also requires a court to suspend a person’s driver’s license for at least 45 days and order the driver to install an ignition interlock system at their expense. If the incident is a repeat offense or if there are aggravating circumstances, such as causing injury to another, the penalties are almost certain to increase.

Talking with a nearby DUI lawyer is the first step in defending one’s case and avoiding these harsh penalties. A diligent attorney could work to fully evaluate the facts of the case and determine where the prosecution’s evidence is weak. Legal counsel could help create reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors and protect the rights of the accused.

Reach Out to a New Britain DUI Attorney Immediately

Facing an arrest for allegations of DUI can be a frightening and confusing experience. You may wonder how police could justify an arrest if they never administered a blood, breath, or urine test. You may also be concerned about protecting your driving privileges as well as your freedom and reputation.

A New Britain DUI lawyer is prepared to address these concerns and fight for your rights. At Ruane Attorneys, our legal team could work tirelessly to explore the circumstances that led to your arrest and discover potential holes in the prosecutor’s case. We are prepared to protect your rights while you are in police custody, argue for fair bail terms, and file motions to exclude any illegally obtained evidence. Give our office a call today to learn more.