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Colorado Springs DUI lawyers

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You ONLY Have 7 DAYS to Request A DMV Hearing in El Paso County

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Your License Will Be AUTOMATICALLY Suspended In 7 Days If You Do Nothing. You NEED to Act Fast.

Have you been arrested for DUI? Speak to a Colorado Springs DUI lawyer now. Our attorneys can help you with your legal matter and potentially help you avoid criminal charges and jail time.

Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while ability impaired (DWAI) is a serious criminal offense resulting in serious consequences, including jail time, loss of a commercial driver’s license (CDL), loss of driving privileges, and a conviction on your record that limits future employment — and puts your current job or career in jeopardy.

A DUI conviction can be a life-changing event.

It’s understandable to be afraid of going to jail. It’s also common to just want to “get it over with” and accept whatever plea bargain the D.A. throws your way.

It’s normal to feel fear and embarrassment after being charged with a DUI, especially if this is your first DUI offense. No one wants to deal with the uncertainty of facing criminal charges.

A DUI case can derail your life and plans, but let any former prosecutor tell you: accepting a deal from the district attorney without first consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.

If you have been arrested for a DUI charge or first-time DUI, call or text now for a free consultation.

You should contact a Colorado Springs DUI lawyer immediately if you have been pulled over and arrested for a DUI. Call our law office today, and a criminal defense lawyer will help you with a free case evaluation. This is where we will review your criminal charges to determine the best strategy to resolve your legal matter. You are welcome to visit either one of our two locations. Free consultations can also be done virtually or over the phone. Call now or schedule a free consultation here.

Hire a Top-Rated Colorado Springs DUI Lawyer

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The cost of a DUI can be expensive. If you are convicted of DUI in Colorado Springs the potential penalties can include loss of insurance coverage, higher insurance premiums, the loss of a job or career, and a harder time getting a job in the future.

A DUI offense in Colorado Springs can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. There are also “aggravating circumstances” — elements of the crime that require stiffer penalties or longer jail time — if found guilty. The penalties will likely be greater if you are facing a felony DUI or additional charges.

Some examples of aggravating circumstances include:

If any of these aggravating circumstances existed at the time of arrest, Colorado state law requires that an interlock ignition device be installed in any vehicle being operated by the offender — even if this is your first DUI!

If your job requires you to drive or you hold a commercial license, a DUI conviction can severely affect your source of income and your family. A DUI case often results in license suspension or being required to use an ignition interlock device to operate a motor vehicle.

Your DUI record can also harm your job and future earning prospects. Ignoring the situation will not make it better. It will often make it worse. You only have a limited amount of time to request a DMV hearing to stop the automatic suspension of your driver’s license.

There are also times when you can get a DUI and not even realize you did anything wrong. For example, some people do not realize that you can be charged with DUI for driving after taking prescribed medication or that you can get a DUI when you are just sitting in your car without driving. But a DUI does not have to be the end of your world.

At Right Law Group, we understand that people sometimes make mistakes, and we are here to help. Our experienced Colorado Springs DUI lawyers have defended numerous clients following drunk driving arrests. We can analyze your circumstances and prepare a proper defense. We know the Colorado DUI laws as well as the judges and prosecutors and will strive to get your most favorable outcome.

Contact Right Law Group today for a free case evaluation if you are unsure what steps to take. You may be able to keep your license. Call us now to get help. An experienced Colorado Springs DUI lawyer can help get you through this. Contact us today for a FREE consultation.

The Colorado Springs DUI Lawyer Guide to Drunk Driving Charges in Colorado

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“A DUI arrest can be a costly mistake,” says Alexis Austin, attorney at Right Law Group. “There are enormous costs that stem from a DUI conviction. All have a lasting impact. Don’t let one wrong decision impact your life, job, or freedom. Call today for a free case evaluation. It doesn’t matter where you live in Colorado; driving under the influence is a serious crime.

A DUI in Colorado is classified as a criminal offense and a major traffic violation. If your DUI charges include property damage or injury to another person, you may face felony charges, as well. Your next actions will impact the outcome of your case. You need to educate yourself, so you can make a final decision on how you will defend yourself against your DUI charges.

You have a seven (7) day window to request a hearing with the DMV to prevent the automatic suspension of your license in the next (30) days. You need to act now.

Don’t let one wrong decision impact your life, job, or freedom. Call today for a free case evaluation.

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Arrested for DUI in Colorado?

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While being pulled over for a DUI for the first time can be frightening, it’s important to remember that a DUI, DUI per se, or DWAI arrest is not a conviction. If it is your first offense, the law will work in your favor if you keep your emotions in check and make good decisions.

Remember: It’s important to get an experienced Colorado Springs DUI lawyer who can successfully take you through the steps. Here are some things to be aware of and some initial steps you’ll need to take to get your situation moving in the right direction.

  • Your license may be suspended.
  • Regardless of how disturbing your arrest has been, you must be prepared to fight DUI charges to ensure the best outcome both now and in the future.
  • Book a case evaluation as soon as possible. Colorado only allows seven days from the time of your arrest to set your DMV hearing in motion. You need an experienced attorney who knows how to navigate the system. 

Key points to remember and implement immediately following a DUI, DUI per se, or DWAI arrest in Colorado that will directly impact your trial outcome.

Step 1. Do not incriminate yourself.

You have to realize that if the officer that stopped you has the evidence they need to arrest you, there is nothing you can do or say to prevent your arrest. What you say can hurt you and damage your chances of DUI dismissal and a positive outcome in court.

  • Remain silent. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in the courtroom. Only answer the officer’s questions about your identity.
  • Do not respond to questions that imply you are guilty. The officers at the scene will insist on asking you a variety of questions designed to trick you into an admission of guilt. Do not answer any questions regarding the admission of drinking.
  • Be nice. It is important that you remain polite throughout the situation. It may be frustrating, and you may want to argue with the officers. It is important to respond to the police with politeness while not giving too much information.

Remember: your best option is to say nothing.

Step 2. Take the chemical test after the arrest.

This is required by most states and is punishable under the law if refused. The chemical test is designed to show a variety of information, most notably your current blood alcohol level. From this level, the officers can deduce the level of alcohol in your blood at the time of the arrest. If you have refused field sobriety tests, then you have little to fear from this and much to lose by refusing. Take the test.

Step 3. Find a local Colorado Springs DUI lawyer.

Never use a general attorney for DUI court cases. DUI laws are complex and require an in-depth understanding of the legal system. While other attorneys may be able to represent you in court, only a specialized DUI attorney can hope to gain you a favorable outcome in your DUI defense.

Step 4. Call a bail bondsman and post bail.

Posting bail is often required after an arrest. While most individuals may be released without bail, some cases require the aid of a bondsman. These individuals will require a fee upfront. Once the fee is paid, they will post bail for you. While this can be expensive, it is less than paying your entire bail to the court. A bail bondsman guarantees that you will be at your hearings. The bondsman will likely come looking for you if you fail to appear in court.

Step 5. Request a DMV hearing immediately

After your time of arrest, you have a limited number of days (usually 10) to make a formal request for a DMV hearing, including weekends and holidays. This hearing will determine whether you are allowed to keep your driver’s license. If you or your attorney do not request a DMV hearing, your license will be automatically suspended.

The arraignment is the portion of your trial during which you enter your plea. Do not plead guilty. It is possible to fight DUI charges and win the case. However, you must ensure that you have an experienced Colorado Springs DUI lawyer on your side to do this. A plea of not guilty leads to the trial process, during which it is possible to show that you were not driving drunk or challenge the merits of the case in another manner.

What Is A DUI?

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DUI, or driving under the influence, occurs when a driver operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol or when the driver has a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. Drivers under the age of 21 (UDD) are charged with impaired driving based on blood alcohol levels of 0.02 or higher, and CDL license holders can be charged based on blood alcohol levels of 0.04 or higher.

DUI Colorado, DUI per se, and DWAI Laws

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Laws concerning DUI, DUI per se, and DWAI appear under Title 42, article 4, and part 13. The State of Colorado divides these offenses into two distinct categories: driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while ability impaired (DWAI). Colorado further separates DUI into two distinct categories: DUI and DUI per se.

In a DUI per se, the prosecution must prove the driver’s drug or alcohol blood levels were above .08 percent while driving or within two hours after driving. In a DUI per se, the driver may not appear to be under the influence. A DUI breathalyzer or DUI blood test will determine if blood levels violate legal limits. In a standard DUI, the prosecution proves that the ingested alcohol or drugs affected the driver’s mental or physical ability to drive.

  • DUI Colorado, DUI per se, or DWAI is a misdemeanor unless it has occurred after three prior convictions that are separate and distinct episodes, in which case it is a class 4 felony for DUI, DUI per se, or DWAI; vehicular homicide, as described in section 18-3-106 (1)(b), C.R.S.; vehicular assault, as described in section 18-3-205 (1)(b), C.R.S.; or any combination thereof.
  • (d) Drugs defined. “Drugs” refers to any drug [27-80-203 (13), C.R.S.] any controlled substance [18-18-102 (5), C.R.S.], including prescription drugs, and any inhaled glue, aerosol, or other toxic vapor or vapors [18-18-412, C.R.S.].
  • C.R.S. 42-4-1301. (e) The medical use of marijuana [18-18-406.3, C.R.S.] is not a defense against any charge of violating this subsection (1). Driving while under the influence of medical marijuana is treated the same as driving under the influence of ambien or any other prescription drug.
  • Distinctions between DUI, DUI per se and DWAI
    • In a DUI,  the person is affected to the degree that they are either mentally or physically incapable, or both, to exercise clear judgment, sufficient control, or due care in the safe operation of a vehicle.
    • In a DUI per se, the person drives a motor vehicle when the person’s BAC is at least 0.08 at the time of driving or within two hours after driving.
    • In a DWAI, the person is affected to the slightest degree so that the person is less capable than the person would ordinarily have been, either mentally or physically, or both, to exercise clear judgment, sufficient control, or due care in the safe operation of a vehicle. The general rule is that a person’s BAC in a DWAI is between 0.05 – 0.079.

Colorado DUI Laws & Penalty Chart

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Colorado DUI laws make it a crime to operate a motor vehicle either (1) while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or (2) with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or greater.

Drivers with a BAC of 0.05% to less than 0.08% face charges for the lesser Colorado offense of DWAI.

Colorado’s criminal sentencing and administrative penalties for DUI, DUI per se, and DWAI become more severe with each successive conviction. Contact Right Law Group today if you have been arrested or charged with DUI in Colorado Springs.

 

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.

Ask a Colorado Springs DUI Lawyer

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What is the punishment for a DUI in Colorado?

The punishment for a DUI in Colorado will depend on a few factors. The main two factors being the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of the driver, and whether this was their first DUI conviction or if they had any previous ones. For a first-time DUI, depending on their BAC, a driver can face jail time up to one year, the revocation of their license for 9 months, community service, and alcohol classes. These penalties will be even steeper with consecutive DUIs.

What is legally drunk in Colorado?

Colorado’s legal limit is a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08. Anyone operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher will be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI).

Is a DUI a felony or misdemeanor in Colorado?

In Colorado, a DUI is most often considered a misdemeanor. However, if the DUI in question causes the severe injury or death of anyone, or if it is the driver’s 4th or more DUI (in any amount of time), the charges will most likely be elevated to a felony.

How long is your license suspended for a DUI in Colorado?

The period of license revocation for a DUI in Colorado depends on the particular circumstances. For first a first DUI in Colorado, the minimum license revocation period is 9 months (which could be increased for extenuating circumstances). This period will also be longer for any subsequent DUI convictions the driver faces.

Is Colorado a zero-tolerance state?

Yes, Colorado is considered a zero-tolerance state. This means that for drivers under the age of 21, it is unlawful for them to drive with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .02 – .05. A first-time offense within this range is considered an infraction rather than a misdemeanor. Any BAC over a .05 would be charged as usual.

Will I get jail time for first DUI?

There is no mandatory jail time for a first DUI unless the driver’s BAC was above .200. However, depending on the BAC, and other factors (such as serious injury or death) there is the possibility of jail time from 5 days all the way up to 2 years.

How long does a DUI stay on your record in Colorado?

A DUI conviction in Colorado will stay on someone’s criminal record (and thus show up on any background checks performed) for 10 years after the conviction.

How many points is a DUI in Colorado Springs?

In the state of Colorado, a DUI will result in 12 points to your license.

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