Facing arrest for a DUI may be your first interaction with the Torrington criminal justice system, which can understandably lead to feelings of anxiety and confusion. The consequences of a DUI conviction are severe and can include imprisonment, a criminal record, significant fines, and the loss of driving privileges, so it is in your best interest to take a charge seriously and contact a Torrington DUI defense lawyer for assistance.

At Ruane Attorneys in Torrington, our dedicated DUI lawyers are here to guide you through this challenging time. We strive to clearly explain the DUI laws in Connecticut and what prosecutors need to prove to secure a conviction. Our team will thoroughly examine the details of your arrest and ensure that any evidence, particularly from traffic stops, was obtained legally. We are committed to achieving your goals, whether that involves fighting the charges in court or negotiating a fair plea deal.

Understanding DUI Laws in Torrington

DUI laws in Torrington and throughout Connecticut are detailed in Connecticut General Statutes § 14-227a, making it illegal to drive a vehicle if influenced by drugs or alcohol. 

To prove intoxication, prosecutors typically rely on two methods. The first is through chemical tests, which can confirm a violation if the blood alcohol content is .08 percent or higher. This is usually achieved through a breathalyzer test, but the police can also request a blood or urine test to determine a driver’s blood alcohol content. Alternatively or in addition to chemical testing, the police may depend on standardized field sobriety tests. These tests include the walk-and-turn test, the one-leg stand test, and the horizontal gaze nystagmus test.

A competent Torrington DUI attorney can effectively challenge DUI allegations, whether related to alcohol or drugs, by questioning both the chemical test results and the subjective observations of law enforcement, which is key to creating reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors.

Mitigating DUI Penalties in Torrington

Although most DUI offenses in Torrington are classified as misdemeanors, they can still significantly disrupt your life. The penalties for a first DUI offense in Torrington might include:

• Installing an ignition interlock device at the driver’s expense
• A fine between $500 and $1,000
• A minimum 45-day license suspension
• A jail term, though this is usually suspended for first offenders.

These penalties can increase significantly if the DUI involved aggravating factors. This might include causing injury or if there are prior DUI convictions. Our lawyers are prepared to explain the possible consequences of a DUI conviction and work to reduce these impacts.

Consulting a Torrington DUI Attorney

A DUI arrest can have far-reaching effects on your life, even if it’s your first offense, potentially leading to jail time, heavy fines, and the suspension of your driver’s license. Prompt action is crucial to defend against these penalties effectively.

Enlisting a Torrington DUI lawyer from Ruane Attorneys can improve your chances of a favorable outcome in your situation because you will have someone advocating for you and your rights. Whether you want to negotiate a plea deal or contest the charges at trial, our team is here to provide the necessary support. Contact us today to discuss your case and how we can help you.