Business Details
Your Trusted Connecticut Criminal Defense Team
At Sills DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers, we are dedicated to achieving the specific goals of each individual client in the most effective and efficient manner. Our attorneys combine extensive experience with an aggressive and innovative approach, delivering results that rival large law firms while maintaining the personalized care of a small-town practice. With offices in Hartford and Waterbury, we serve clients across Connecticut, offering technology-driven mobile consultations for added convenience.Our team is committed to protecting clients' rights throughout the criminal justice process, from initial arraignment to appeals. We handle a wide range of cases including DUI, drug offenses, violent crimes, and white-collar crimes, with a proven track record of dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable verdicts. Our attorneys' deep understanding of local courts and prosecutors allows us to develop tailored defense strategies optimized for each case's unique circumstances.
Services
DUI Defense
Criminal Defense
Expungements
Probation Violations
Drug Crimes
Domestic Violence
Assault
Weapon Crimes
White Collar Crimes
Sex Crimes
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of combined legal experience in criminal defense.
- Our attorneys are authors of multiple legal publications on DUI law.
- We offer personalized defense strategies tailored to each case's specifics.
- Our team has successfully handled thousands of DUI and criminal cases.
- We maintain strong relationships with local judges and prosecutors statewide.
Services
DUI Defense
Our attorneys provide comprehensive defense against DUI charges, including challenging chemical test accuracy, field sobriety test validity, and procedural violations. We handle license suspension hearings and work to minimize penalties while protecting clients' driving privileges through specialized permits when necessary. With extensive courtroom experience, we've secured numerous dismissals and reduced charges for clients facing first-time or repeat DUI offenses.
Criminal Defense
We defend against felony and misdemeanor charges including drug crimes, domestic violence, and assault. Our approach combines aggressive litigation with strategic negotiations, leveraging relationships with local prosecutors and judges to achieve favorable outcomes. We handle all stages from bail hearings to appeals, with a proven track record of case dismissals and reduced sentences through technical defenses and evidentiary challenges.
Expungements
Our team assists clients in clearing criminal records through expungement and pardon processes. We guide clients through eligibility requirements and court procedures to help remove barriers to employment, housing, and professional licensing while maintaining confidentiality about past charges.
Probation Violations
We represent clients facing probation revocation hearings, working to modify terms or minimize penalties when violations occur. Our attorneys have successfully reduced jail sentences and maintained probation status through alternative sentencing proposals and evidence-based defenses.
Drug Crimes
We defend against possession, trafficking, and distribution charges for controlled substances. Our strategies include challenging search and seizure legality, laboratory testing procedures, and witness credibility to secure dismissals or reduced charges while addressing clients' substance abuse treatment needs when appropriate.
People
Jonathan Sills
Managing Partner
Recognized DUI defense expert with over 20 years' experience, author of Connecticut DUI Law textbook, and frequent media commentator. Handles complex DUI and criminal cases statewide with a focus on technical defenses and courtroom litigation.
Julie Culver
Attorney
Experienced criminal defense attorney with background in both prosecution and defense. Focuses on DUI cases, domestic violence, and drug offenses, leveraging courtroom experience to develop effective defense strategies tailored to each client's needs.
Kathryn R. Sylvester
Attorney
Dedicated defense attorney handling DUI, drug crimes, and violent offense cases. Works closely with clients to understand their unique circumstances while developing aggressive defense strategies based on procedural and evidentiary challenges.
Angelise Maldonado
Paralegal
Supports the legal team with case preparation, client communication, and court documentation management. Provides organizational support that enhances the team's ability to focus on strategic defense planning.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest in Connecticut?
Contact Sills DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers immediately. We'll review your case details, advise of your rights, and begin building your defense strategy right away.
Can first-time DUI offenders get their charges dismissed?
Yes, we've successfully obtained dismissals for first-time offenders through DMV hearings, technical defenses, and diversionary programs when appropriate.
How does prior criminal history affect my case?
Prior offenses can increase penalties, but our attorneys have secured reduced charges and alternative sentencing even for repeat offenders through strategic negotiations and trials.
Do you handle cases outside Hartford and Waterbury?
Yes, we represent clients statewide including Meriden, New Britain, Norwalk, Middletown, and Stamford with office locations and virtual consultations available.
What's the difference between criminal court and DMV proceedings?
Criminal court handles fines/jail time while DMV handles license suspensions. We defend clients in both forums simultaneously for comprehensive representation.
Can I get a work permit after DUI charges?
Eligible clients may obtain Special Operator's Permits for work/school through the DMV - our team will help you navigate this process.
