The courts take third-offense DUI charges in Connecticut very seriously. Prosecutors view these defendants as a danger to public health and safety and often aim to have them convicted and sentenced harshly.

However, there may still be plea bargaining or other defense strategies available for third-DUI offenses in Shelton. If you face these charges, consult a lawyer at Ruane Attorneys to learn your options and protect your future.

Penalties for Third-Time DUIs

Third-offense DUI cases are heard in lower-level Connecticut courts, even though they are felony charges. The penalty for a third DUI conviction is three years in jail, with a mandatory minimum of one year. Additionally, a felony on a person’s criminal record has consequences for their voting rights, housing opportunities, educational prospects, and more.

Aggravating Factors for Multiple Drunk Driving Charges

A third DUI comes with increased penalties compared to a first or second offense, and aggravating factors can lead to even harsher consequences. These include:

• Serious physical injury to another person or a real risk that greater injury could have occurred
• Lack of insurance
• High speeds that endangered people on the road

Minors in the Vehicle

Under Connecticut law, there is a statute called risk of injury to a minor. This means any accident that imperils a minor’s health, safety, or morals is a separate felony carrying up to ten years in prison, in addition to the DUI penalties. A person accused of a third DUI offense with kids in the car must seek immediate legal representation to prevent severe consequences.

Are There Diversion Programs or Probation for Third Offenses?

Diversion programs are not offered to anyone who has any conviction for DUI within the last ten years. A third offender will also not be able to get probation.

Additionally, if a person faces a third DUI arrest and the second conviction is within ten years, their DMV history is opened. This makes it easier to prove the third offense. However, there are still many potential defenses available in these cases, making it essential for third-time DUI defendants to consult a Shelton attorney.

Defenses for Repeat DUI Offenses in Shelton

To defend a third-time DUI charge, our attorneys check the prior convictions. Some out-of-state offenses may be inadmissible to a case in Connecticut, depending on the circumstances. For plea bargaining purposes, the state can also elect to only charge the DUI as a second offense. Ruane Attorneys works to find defenses that might modify the situation and convince the prosecution to lower the third-offense DUI charges.

However, it is difficult to challenge license suspension after a third DUI. Connecticut DMV has written laws that automatically impose a suspension for a second or third conviction. The only possible way to challenge the suspension would be to appeal the conviction.

Work with a Shelton Attorney for Third-Time DUIs

The most important factor in defending a repeat DUI is the attorney that you hire. Ruane Attorneys has handled countless DUI cases and appeals, and we are constantly researching and staying up to date on the science behind proving intoxication.

Those facing third DUI offenses in Shelton should be proactive in protecting their rights and future against severe penalties. Our firm can provide the inventive defenses you need to achieve a positive outcome in your case. Call today to learn more.