First Offender Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pre-trial Alcohol Education Program?
This program is a privilege and a choice that the State of CT may offer to first DUI* offenders.
What is the Pre-Trial Drug Education Program?
It is a legal alternative to a drug possession conviction. It has many regulations, such as a strict attendance policy. If you think the regulations are unfair, or that you cannot comply with them, then do NOT request to be in this program.
Does this mean I will have no “record "and what about questions on job applications?
Complex answer. If you successfully complete this program you do not have a conviction for the crime of drinking while intoxicated and/or drug possession. You will still have an ARREST record on file permanently, just not a conviction record. All 50 Motor Vehicle Departments in all States have access to this arrest record, as well as the police. In the State of CT an employer cannot ask you if you have been arrested. They can ask you if you been convicted of a crime.
How do I get into either Program?
At your first court appearance you applied to the program and were given a return court date. The court sends use paperwork. We will send you an evaluation appointment by mail. It is essential that you provide the court with an accurate mailing address & phone number. This involves a brief assessment and interview.
Just like a court appearance, there is little if any flexibility in scheduling our evaluations.
How is it decided if I go to the Level 1 (10 weeks) or Level 2 (15 Weeks) Program?
We make recommendation directly to the court. It is based on criteria established by the State of CT. on the next court date (usually 4 weeks from when first applied for the program), you will be informed by the court after they have reviewed the case & made the determination of 10 or 15 classes. Prior to the second court date we cannot release information to any parties other then the court; this includes you, lawyers, family members, DMV, etc. For someone with serious problems with alcohol or drug you can be referred directly to treatment.
How is it decided if I go to the Level 1 (10 weeks) or Level 2 (15 Weeks) Program?
We make recommendation directly to the court. It is based on criteria established by the State of CT. on the next court date (usually 4 weeks from when first applied for the program), you will be informed by the court after they have reviewed the case & made the determination of 10 or 15 classes. Prior to the second court date we cannot release information to any parties other then the court; this includes you, lawyers, family members, DMV, etc. For someone with serious problems with alcohol or drug you can be referred directly to treatment.
How do I know when my classes will start?
After you second Court date the bail commissioner will mail us paperwork stating if you have been accepted into the program and at what level. Generally, you will start in your group within 6-8 weeks of our receiving the paperwork. We will send you a written notification of the date, day and time of the group you have been assigned to. This letter will arrive 2-3 weeks before your class starts. If you move or make changes to your address or phone number you need to let us know in writing. If we send you a letter and you do not receive it you may be in violation of the program rules and sent back to court.
Why can’t I pick just one specific day when I want to take classes?
We have approximately 800 individuals throughout the year. State regulations require you to be in a class within 45 days of admittance. We do not always have group starting that matches your ideal timeframe. Since this program is governed by strict policies, we cannot grant you delays. We do offer both evening and morning classes. At your evaluation you will be asked if there is one day you absolutely cannot attend. We will try to honor that, but it is not always possible.
When and who do I pay for these classes?
We do not handle payment for the program. The clerk’s at the court will handle all payments for the program (The only exception to this is if you were arrested in another State.)
What happens if I do not have the money?
You can request a continuance from the judge until you have the money. The judge is the only one who can grant continuances.
What if I need a delay in when I start classes?
The evaluation cannot be delayed. For classes, you must request this to the court. If the court grants a delay, they will send us this in writing. We cannot delay your entry unless this has been granted by the court. Generally, the Bail Commissioner will grant a delay until you have your license reinstated.
What if I want to take my classes at a different location?
There are 10 contracted providers statewide. Go to your evaluation and then you can transfer after your next court date.
What about my license? (DWI program only)
The Dept. of Motor Vehicles imposes their own penalties totally separate from the Court penalties or our program. Generally, CT licensees lose their driving privileges for 90 days (BAC under .16); 120 days (BAC .16+) and for 6 months if you refuse chemical testing. You can apply for a work license directly to the DMV. If you live outside CT generally your driving privileges in the State of CT will be suspended for the time frames noted above. Getting a work permit is something you have to do through the DMV. The work permit, if granted, cannot be used to drive to classes. THE PENALTY FOR OPERATING UNDER SUSPENSION AFTER A DWI IS MANDATORY JAIL TIME. Any questions should be addressed to the CT DMV. 860-263-5720 https://www.ct.gov/dmv/site/default.asp