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Castle Rock DUI Lawyers

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Castle Rock DUI Attorney

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When you see those flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror, it’s a moment no driver wants to experience. But if you find yourself facing a DUI charge in Colorado, it’s important to know what to expect. In this guide, our Castle Rock DUI lawyers take you through the process step by step, offering practical information to help you navigate the situation effectively.

The DUI Stop and Field Sobriety Tests

It all begins with a traffic stop or DUI checkpoint. Were you pulled over legally? An illegal stop can be grounds for dismissing your case. After being pulled over, the officer may ask you to perform field sobriety tests, which are designed to test your coordination and sobriety. However, these tests can be tricky, and even officers can make mistakes when administering them. As your legal defense team, we’ll closely examine whether these tests were conducted correctly, as any errors can invalidate the results.

Being Taken Into Custody and Testing

If you are arrested for a DUI, you’ll likely be taken into custody. During this process, you can expect to be photographed, fingerprinted, and have your driver’s license confiscated. While cooperating with the booking procedures is essential, it’s equally crucial not to answer any questions without your legal defense team present.

Following your arrest, you’ll be asked to take a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). In Colorado, refusing the breathalyzer can result in severe penalties, so it’s generally recommended to comply if the test is administered properly unless you know you are going to be severely over the legal limit (i.e. over .20 BAC) which could expose you to more potential jail time. However, as your legal defense team, we will investigate whether the testing equipment was functioning correctly and if the proper protocol was followed. Mistakes in this area are more common than you might think.

castle rock criminal defense attorney

Jail Release After a DUI Arrest

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Once you are released from custody, your first priority should be arranging transportation. Your driver’s license will likely be suspended, so driving is not an option. Additionally, it’s essential to contact your insurance company immediately, as your rates will increase significantly after a DUI. Unfortunately, DUI charges are costly, but knowing all of this information up front can help you prepare financially.

If you sustained any injuries during your arrest, now is the time to gather medical records. Photos of any cuts, scrapes, or bruises could potentially be used as evidence of excessive police force, so be sure to save all documentation.

DUI Charges and Penalties in Colorado

For first-time DUI offenders in Colorado, the charge is typically a misdemeanor. However, don’t underestimate the severity of the consequences. You can expect hefty fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, probation, community service, and, at the very least, a license suspension. Jail time may come into play for those with higher BAC levels or underage drivers (20 yrs old or younger).

If you accumulate multiple DUIs in a short timeframe, you could face dui felony charges, resulting in substantial fines, an extended license suspension, and potentially years behind bars. It’s important to note that each case is unique. As your legal defense team, we will conduct a thorough investigation before entering into negotiations with the prosecutor. Our expertise has led to reduced charges, consequences, or dismissals for over 98% of our clients.

Your First Court Date After Being Arrested for DUI

Within a few weeks of your arrest, you’ll receive a summons to appear in county court for an arraignment hearing. This is just the first court date of many. You do not have to enter any kind of plea at this time as you will need time to properly prepare your defense and review all of the evidence the prosecutor is saying that they have against you.

Above all else, assert your right to counsel. DUI law is complex, and without legal expertise on your side, you may face the maximum penalties. Rely on our mastery of Colorado DUI law and courtroom experience to guide you through this challenging process.

Why A Castle Rock DUI Lawyer is Essential

A DUI charge can jeopardize many aspects of your life, including your driver’s license, finances, reputation, and freedom. The odds may seem stacked against you, but with the right legal representation, you can level the playing field.

As your legal defense team, we will thoroughly examine police reports to identify any procedural errors and contest any evidence obtained illegally. Our relationships with prosecutors, judges, and experts can be invaluable during plea negotiations and sentencing mitigation. We are well-versed in the legal arguments that resonate with the courts.

Trust us to fight strategically and aggressively, whether it’s in the courtroom or during negotiations. Our criminal defense attorneys’ background as former DAs also enhances our ability to negotiate effectively outside of court. Our track record speaks for itself – over 98% of our clients have seen charges reduced, lesser consequences, or charges dropped prior to trial. We will go to great lengths to secure the best possible resolution for you.

Automatic License Suspension and Administrative Review By The DMV

After a DUI arrest in Colorado, the DMV will automatically suspend your license. However, you can request a hearing within seven days to challenge this suspension. While only around 10% of suspensions are overturned, it’s still worth contesting. We will subpoena officers, scrutinize inconsistencies, and advocate for your driving privileges.

Even if your suspension remains in place, we can work to secure a temporary permit for work or alcohol education purposes. While this permit is limited, it’s a far better option than a complete loss of your driving privileges.-

Building Your DUI Defense After Being Arrested for DUI in Castle Rock, CO

Now, it’s time to dig into the details and construct your defense. We will obtain and thoroughly review police reports to identify procedural errors. Any inconsistencies we uncover will be used as ammunition to weaken the DA’s case against you.

We work closely with forensic experts to contest breathalyzer and blood test results. We examine issues such as sample storage, transportation, and machine calibration because scientific testing is not infallible.

Additionally, we’ll craft arguments related to rising blood alcohol levels. We’ll consider factors such as your last drink versus the actual testing time to create reasonable doubt.

Common DUI Defenses in Colorado

While each DUI case is unique, most fall within a few established defense categories:

  • No Probable Cause for the Traffic Stop: We’ll investigate whether there was a valid reason for the initial traffic stop.
  • Improperly Conducted Field Sobriety Tests: We’ll examine whether the field sobriety tests were administered correctly.
  • Faulty Breathalyzer Machine or Technique: We’ll scrutinize the breathalyzer equipment and testing procedure.
  • Medical Conditions Affecting Sobriety Tests: If you have a medical condition that could have affected the test results, we’ll present this as part of your defense.
  • Rising BAC Levels: We’ll explore whether your BAC was over the limit at the time of testing, but below it while you were driving.

Our deep understanding of DUI law allows us to determine which defense strategies offer you the best advantage. We’ll craft the strongest possible defense based on the specific details of your case.

DUI Plea Bargaining

If the evidence against you appears overwhelming, we can explore plea bargain options to limit the penalties you may face. Our experience as a former DA can be particularly beneficial in this regard. Potential plea bargains might include reducing felony charges to misdemeanors or agreeing to counseling and community service in exchange for avoiding jail time. Ultimately, we will prioritize what matters most to you and work together to negotiate the fairest resolution.

First Offender Programs

If this is your first offense, you may qualify for pre-trial diversion programs. These programs require completing classes, counseling, community service, and probation to avoid a DUI conviction. While strict, they offer long-term benefits if successfully completed.

What Our Castle Rock DUI Lawyers Can Do to Help

Facing a DUI arrest can be terrifying, but you’re not alone. We’ve dedicated our careers to guiding Coloradans through this ordeal. Our expertise in DUI law and courtroom experience have led to numerous positive outcomes for our clients. Contact the Right Law Group today for a free consultation. There is hope, and together, we can achieve victory.

Don’t let one wrong decision impact your life, job or freedom.

Call today for a free case evaluation.

Colorado criminal procedure

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  • Arrest or
    Summons
    01

    Arrest or
    Summons

    The process begins with either an arrest or a summons. The accused is either arrested or served with paperwork summoning them to appear in court. During an arrest, Miranda rights may or may not be read to you. Officers are only required to recite your rights if they intend to question you about potentially incriminating things.

  • Bond Hearing
    02

    Bond Hearing

    In most cases, you're entitled to have a reasonable bond set after you've been arrested. In situations involving domestic violence, the police will request input from the victim before setting a bond. Bonds are set to ensure that a person appears in court at their court dates. If they don’t show up, they forfeit the money that was paid for the bond.

  • Advisement of
    Charges
    03

    Advisement of
    Charges

    Whether you are arrested or given a summons to appear, the court must make sure you understand what crimes you are being accused of committing. This is called advisement of charges. The District Attorney will detail the specific charges against you, and the Judge has to make sure you understand what possible penalties are associated with that charge in the state.

  • Preliminary Hearing
    (for Higher Felony
    Charges)
    04

    Preliminary Hearing
    (for Higher Felony
    Charges)

    A preliminary hearing is a way for your defense attorney to challenge the District Attorney’s right to bring charges against you by making them prove that there is reason to believe you committed a crime. The Judge is not deciding your guilt or innocence, but rather whether or not there is probable cause to charge you with the crime in question.

  • Pretrial Conference /
    Disposition
    Hearing
    05

    Pretrial Conference /
    Disposition
    Hearing

    This court date comes after your attorney has reviewed all of the reports and evidence in your case. Here’s where your attorney will engage in plea negotiations with the DA. If they can reach an agreement on the case, you may be able to take a plea bargain. If they cannot reach a resolution, your case will be set for an arraignment or trial date.

  • Arraignment
    06

    Arraignment

    An arraignment is the final date for you to decide how you choose to plea. Guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, then the case is set for a sentencing date. If you plead not guilty, you and your attorney will then set the case for trial.

  • Motions Hearing
    07

    Motions Hearing

    A motion hearing is when an attorney makes a request that requires a decision from the judge. For example, motions to suppress evidence or statements. These motions can limit the information that goes before a jury if it benefits your case, and there are legal grounds for doing so.

  • Pretrial Readiness
    Conference
    08

    Pretrial Readiness
    Conference

    A pretrial readiness conference is held at some point before trial. It usually is held about a week to a month before the date trial is set to begin. This court date ensures everyone is ready to go to trial on the set date. It is also a time for lawyers to bring up any issues they may have to be addressed before the day of trial.

  • Jury Trial
    09

    Jury Trial

    After a jury is selected for trial, the District Attorney’s responsibility is to present the case to the jury. The DA must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the crime. Otherwise, the jury must find you innocent. Your attorney will be able to cross-examine all of the witnesses, present evidence, and ultimately help you navigate this process.

  • Sentencing
    Date
    10

    Sentencing
    Date

    At sentencing, the Judge must decide the appropriate legal penalty for the crime you plead guilty. The Judge’s decision is based on the listed penalties for the specific charge, recommendations from the presentence investigation, your criminal history, as well as statements made at the sentencing by the District Attorney, your attorney, you, and any named victims of the crime.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

Finding the Right Criminal Defense Law Firm to Handle Your Colorado DUI Charges

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Facing check fraud accusations in Castle Rock can disrupt your life and forever alter your future. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Right Law Group has helped thousands resolve criminal charges across Colorado – and we’re relentless when it comes to defending our clients’ freedom and reputations.
Our team of former prosecutors and District Attorneys brings decades of combined experience, an intimate understanding of Colorado law, and a proven track record of achieving dismissals, acquittals, and favorable outcomes in check fraud cases. We know what it takes to protect your rights, expose flaws in the state’s case, and craft an ironclad defense on your behalf.

Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an overworked public defender. Right Law Group has your back. With 3 locations to serve you, our dedicated lawyers are ready to fight for the best possible result in your case. Don’t wait – contact Right Law Group online for a free consultation today. Our team is standing by 24/7 – because your future is on the line.

Areas Served

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El Paso County

Douglas County

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Arapahoe County

  • Centennial
  • Englewood
  • Greenwood Village
  • Cherry Hills Village
  • Foxfield
  • Sheridan
  • Columbine Valley
  • Byers
  • Southglenn
  • Castlewood
  • Peoria

Pueblo County

Teller County

Fremont County

  • Coaldale
  • Cotopaxi
  • Hillside
  • Howard
  • Texas Creek
  • Wellsville