Protecting your rights after a Connecticut DUI arrest
Connecticut calls impaired driving “operating under the influence,” or OUI, although many people search for DUI or DWI. The criminal case and driver’s-license process are separate, and both can move quickly. Early advice helps preserve evidence and deadlines.
What we investigate
- Whether police had a lawful reason for the stop
- Field sobriety instructions and administration
- Breath, blood, or urine testing procedures and records
- Body-camera, dash-camera, dispatch, and booking evidence
- Medical conditions, medications, fatigue, weather, and road conditions
- Whether statements and searches complied with constitutional requirements
First-offense and repeat cases
Consequences depend on prior history, test results, age, an alleged accident, and other facts. A first arrest may involve diversionary options in appropriate cases, while repeat or aggravated allegations can carry more serious exposure. The evidence and eligibility rules must be reviewed before any outcome can be assessed.
What to do now
- Keep every police, court, and motor-vehicle document.
- Write down events while they are fresh.
- Do not post about the arrest online.
- Ask promptly about court and license deadlines.
DUI defense questions
Is DUI the same as OUI in Connecticut?
People commonly say DUI or DWI, but Connecticut statutes use OUI. The terms generally describe the same type of impaired-driving allegation.
Can a breath test be challenged?
Potential issues include the stop, test administration, observation period, equipment records, operator compliance, and admissibility. The answer depends on the evidence.
Will I lose my license?
A license consequence may arise separately from the criminal case. Deadlines can be short, so prompt case-specific advice is important.