The state of Colorado does not play when it comes to keeping drunk drivers off the road, and the penalties for DUI/DWI are harsh.
If law enforcement arrests you on suspicion of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated, what sort of penalties will you face? Is an alcohol rehabilitation program available to you?
What is in store
If you ever find yourself arrested for DUI or DWI, the judge will consider many factors in determining penalties. As a first offender, you could spend time behind bars anywhere from five days to one year and pay a fine of from $300 to $1,000. However, statistics show that one in three drivers arrested for drunk driving is a repeat offender. If this is your second offense, you face mandatory jail time of 10 days along with two years of probation. If you have a third conviction, you will spend a minimum of 60 days in jail and participate in an alcohol treatment program.
DUI deferment programs
The court has wide latitude in ordering DUI offenders to participate in alcohol treatment programs. Alcohol rehab centers are familiar with court-ordered treatment requirements, and some programs include alcohol evaluation and alcohol education classes in tandem with community service requirements. Defendants who enter deferment programs are responsible for the cost, which may be $1,000 to $2,500, not including attorney fees and bail. Arrangements may include consideration of the alcohol treatment program as time served.
Managing your case
Explore your legal options if law enforcement arrests you on suspicion of drunk driving. An investigation will begin promptly. Your legal team will want answers as to whether there was probable cause to arrest you in the first place, whether the officer read you your Miranda rights or whether there were issues with the breathalyzer or field sobriety tests you took. No matter whether this is your first offense or your fourth, you face serious penalties and possible participation in an alcohol rehab program. A drunk driving conviction will adversely affect your future, so you obviously want the best outcome possible for your case.
