Drunk driving offenses can go by a lot of different names, from operating under the influence (OUI) to driving while intoxicated (DWI). In Connecticut, the official acronym is driving under the influence (DUI).
No matter what you call a drunk driving offense, there is one key thing to remember: these are serious offenses. Anytime you’re charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you are at risk for suffering severe consequences.
Understanding Connecticut’s drunk-driving laws
The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for those age 21 or older in Connecticut is .08%. In Connecticut, DUI offenses are often a misdemeanor charge, but that’s not always the case. If you have a DUI charge on your criminal history within the past 10 years, and you’re charged with another DUI, you may face a felony DUI charge.
All DUI offenses come with accompanying penalties that often include jail time, fines, license suspension, treatment, community service and the use of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID.)
Thinking about expunging your DUI?
It is very difficult to expunge a DUI unless the charges are dismissed or you are acquitted. Expunging is the legal process that seals or destroys your criminal record. It is critical to mount an aggressive defense against a DUI charge in order to mitigate the long-term impact it can have on your life.
