In Shelton and throughout Connecticut, law enforcement is strict on driving under the influence (DUI) charges. The area has seen many high-speed crashes recently, leading the Shelton police to pursue and prosecute these cases vigorously. Anyone facing these charges needs a strong legal defense to avoid serious penalties.

Let the lawyers at Ruane Attorneys help you navigate the charges and protect your rights. We can explain the court process for Shelton DUI cases and represent you throughout the proceedings.

Released From Jail After a DUI Arrest

After a driver charged with DUI is released from jail, they will receive several documents. These include copies of their Miranda rights and release papers, whether they are released on their own recognizance or a bond. If released on bond, they will receive a receipt from the Shelton Police Department. At any stage during the arrest or pretrial release process, a driver can contact a Shelton DUI attorney for legal counsel.

Pretrial Conferences for DUIs

A pretrial conference allows the lawyers and the judge to consider the merits of a DUI case. During this stage in the Shelton DUI process, the parties may discuss:

• The facts of the case
• The admissibility of the evidence
• Whether the state can prove its case
• Whether the judge can suggest a mutually agreeable resolution

If the parties cannot reach a resolution, the DUI case will proceed to trial.

DUI Trials in Shelton

All Shelton DUI cases are heard in the Derby Superior Court in Derby, Connecticut. It can take at least a year from a person’s arrest until their DUI trial begins, and the trial should take about a week. Many times, the driver will enter a year-long diversionary program instead of going to trial. A local attorney at our firm can help drivers efficiently navigate the DUI court process, whether they intend to go to trial, seek a plea deal, or enter a diversion program.

What Does the Prosecutor Need To Prove in a Drunk Driving Case?

The prosecutor must prove the driver operated a motor vehicle on a public road under the influence of alcohol or drugs. To make a DUI case, the prosecution will typically present the testimony of the arresting police officers. This could include observations about the driver’s state, such as the smell of alcohol on their breath, and the results of field tests. The prosecution may also present scientific evidence—such as breath, blood, or urine test results—to establish the driver’s blood alcohol content.

Sentencing for DUI Charges

When sentencing a driver for a DUI conviction, the court and jury will consider several factors. The first is the driver’s prior history of alcohol-related violations. Other factors include:

• Whether the incident involved physical injury to another person
• Whether the incident involved significant property damage
• Whether the driver has a good track record of alcohol abuse treatment

During the sentencing process for DUIs in Shelton, our lawyers can present mitigating factors and work to decrease the potential penalties.

Let a Shelton Lawyer Guide You Through the DUI Court Process

Legal counsel is crucial when dealing with a DUI. Even by telephone, an attorney can advise you on cooperating with the police and explain how the process works. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys can help determine whether you should submit to testing or whether providing evidence will be detrimental to your case.

From your arrest to trial, our firm can represent your best interests. Discuss the court process for Shelton DUI cases with our lawyers today. Call us to learn how we can be your advocates and allies throughout the proceedings.