Driving in the state of Connecticut is a privilege, not a right. As such, the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles holds the power to suspend an individual’s driver’s license for a variety of reasons. Common reasons for such suspensions include failure to pay fines, accruing multiple moving violations, being convicted of DUI offenses, and refusal to undergo blood alcohol concentration testing when asked to do so by law enforcement.

Regardless of the reasons for license suspension, driving with a suspended license in Waterbury is a violation of the law, carrying potential criminal consequences such as hefty fines or even imprisonment. Seeking legal advice is crucial to understand and address the implications of a DUI-related license suspension in Waterbury. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys is prepared to examine the validity of the charges, explain the potential repercussions of conviction, and chart a strategic path forward to help mitigate the consequences if you have face an accusation of driving with a suspended license.

Causes of License Suspensions 

Driving on Waterbury’s roads is a privilege granted by law, contingent upon possessing and maintaining a valid driver’s license. Because driving is a privilege and not a right, actions that endanger public safety while driving can mean the suspension of driving privileges. For example, accumulating multiple moving violations such as speeding, failure to yield, or involvement in accidents can result in point accumulation on one’s driving record and eventual license suspension.

In DUI cases, drivers are required to comply with law enforcement requests for blood, breath, or urine testing under Connecticut General Statute § 14-227b. Refusal to undergo testing automatically results in a six month license suspension, regardless of the driver’s right to refuse and regardless of the outcome of a DUI case.

License suspensions may also occur due to convictions for DUI, OUI, or DWI offenses, typically resulting in a mandatory 45-day suspension, which increases with prior DUI convictions on record.

Notification of Suspension

Regardless of the grounds for a Waterbury driver’s license suspension, the individual concerned must receive proper notification from the court or Department of Motor Vehicles. Contesting the adequacy of notification can serve as a viable defense against charges. Our Waterbury attorneys excel at investigating the accuracy of license suspension notifications received by drivers.

Driving with a Suspended License in Waterbury 

Operating a vehicle in Waterbury with a suspended driver’s license is a criminal offense, requiring a court appearance with prosecution overseen by the local district attorney.

According to CT Gen. Stat. § 14-215, driving with a suspended license on public roads is a misdemeanor, subject to a fine of as much as $200 or a jail term of up to 90 days. However, for individuals with suspended licenses due to alcohol-related offenses, penalties are much harsher, with fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 and potential jail sentences which can range from 30 days to one year.

Individuals facing allegations of driving with a suspended license following DUI convictions should promptly seek legal counsel in Waterbury. Our local attorneys are equipped to mitigate potential penalties and protect clients’ interests.

Consult a Waterbury Attorney Regarding DUI Driver’s License Suspensions

Accusations of driving without a valid license post-DUI conviction are serious charges, potentially resulting in criminal records, significant fines, or imprisonment. Prosecution must prove that the driver knowingly operated a vehicle with a suspended license on public roads.

Our law firm offers robust legal representation to challenge such allegations. Our legal team conducts thorough investigations, evaluating DMV and court communications, to contest assertions of knowingly driving with a suspended license. Gain insight into Waterbury DUI-related license suspensions and strategies to counter alleged violations by contacting our firm today.