Under Connecticut law, a driver’s motor vehicle license can be suspended by the police for 24 hours after a DUI arrest. Once 24 hours have passed, the driver can go to the front desk of the police station to retrieve their license. However, the DMV may still suspend the driver’s license and allow a limited amount of time to challenge the suspension.

The legal team at Ruane Attorneys can further explain license suspensions for DUIs in New Britain and help protect your right to continue driving. If you were recently arrested, reach out to our attorneys as soon as possible.

Recent Legal Changes for DUI License Suspensions

Several years ago, a driver could lose their license for six months for blowing an alcohol breath test over the legal limit. However, these penalties are now lower due to recent legal changes. If a driver fails or refuses a breath test, their license will be suspended for 45 days, after which they must use an ignition interlock device.

It is important to note that a driver can challenge their license suspension. An attorney at our New Britain office could explain the recent legal updates for DUI license suspensions and help protect a driver’s rights.

Restricted License After a DUI Arrest

A driver facing a 45-day license suspension can request a restricted license to drive to and from work. They must fill out a form, provide their hours of work and supervisor’s name and phone number, and pay a DMV fee. The DMV will eventually speak to the supervisor and confirm their employment to grant the work driving permit for the hours listed on the application.

Challenging a License Suspension in New Britain

After a DUI arrest, a driver will receive a series of three letters from the DMV. The first notice will list the date that the suspension starts and state that they have seven days to request a hearing. If the driver does not respond and request a hearing, their license will be automatically suspended.

If the driver or their local attorney requests a hearing, they will receive a second DMV letter setting the hearing date. A lawyer could request more time to prepare a defense for the DUI license suspension hearing.

License Suspension Hearing Process

The hearing process occurs before an officer designated by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. By law, the hearing officer may raise a limited number of issues, including the following:

• Was there an arrest?
• Was the person advised of the arrest?
• Were they operating the vehicle?
• Did they refuse the test or have a result over the legal limit?

Usually, the driver’s lawyer handles the hearing. A New Britain attorney may challenge the reliability of the blood alcohol content test or raise other issues in the license suspension hearing. The driver does not have to appear unless they wish to testify.

What Happens If You Lose the Hearing?

If the driver loses the hearing, the suspension will go into effect. The driver has the right to pursue an administrative appeal, but the suspension will remain until the appeal is heard. Ruane Attorneys can further advise on pursuing administrative appeals for DUI license suspensions in New Britain.

Discuss DUI License Suspension with a New Britain Attorney

A driver’s license suspension can impact your life in many ways. You may be unable to commute to work, pick up your children, or attend to daily obligations. When facing DUI license penalties, understanding your legal options is essential to protect your rights.

Our legal team can explain how to challenge license suspensions for DUIs in New Britain. We work to mitigate the impact of an arrest on your life and protect your best interests. Call Ruane Attorneys today for a consultation.