On any given night, you can pretty much predict that there is going to be a police car stationed at Mile Marker 242 and Mile Marker 232 in Weld, Colorado, simply waiting for the slightest cause to pull over someone like you, your friend, your mother, or your neighbor. The police are looking for criminals. Who they generally manage to pull over are ordinary people who perhaps had one too many drinks while on a date or at a party and who have made a mistake by putting the key in the ignition and trying to drive home.
The penalties of even one DUI are far too steep to go before the court without a qualified lawyer to represent you. Penalties include jail time, steep fines, suspended drivers’ privileges, potential loss of insurance coverage, an ignition interlock device and the humiliation of being found guilty of a “crime.”
At McAdams Law Office, you will find a criminal defense attorney who understands your predicament and knows how to defend, even in the face of difficult evidence against you. William (Bill) McAdams is a former criminal prosecutor who uses the information that he gained working cases from the inside of the criminal justice system to build strong cases on behalf of his clients who have been accused of:
Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) and drugs (DUID) in Colorado both carry significant penalties, but defending against them requires different approaches. Marijuana DUIs are based on THC levels, but proving impairment can be difficult since marijuana affects individuals differently. Prescription drugs can also lead to a DUID charge, even when taken legally. An experienced attorney can challenge the evidence, making a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
A DUI conviction in Colorado can cost you around $13,500, including fines, court fees, and mandatory programs like alcohol education and ignition interlock devices. This is a significant increase from previous years, largely due to the state’s stricter penalties for “persistent drunk drivers”—those with prior offenses or a high blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.15%. Costs rise even more with repeat offenses.
As for legal fees, the cost varies depending on the specifics of your case. We typically offer a multiple stage flat fee arrangement, where you only pay for each stage as it’s reached. For more serious cases, such as felony DUIs, we may charge by the hour. We require a retainer upfront and can often work with clients to create a monthly payment plan to cover the remainder.
DUI penalties in Colorado are severe and can include jail time, fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). First-time offenders often face license suspension and costly programs, while repeat offenders may be subject to longer jail terms and permanent revocation of driving privileges. Understanding the potential penalties and how to mitigate them is crucial, and hiring an experienced local attorney can significantly reduce the impact on your life.
Colorado imposes harsher penalties for repeat DUI offenders, including mandatory jail time, license suspension, and heavy fines. There is no lookback period, meaning any prior DUI conviction will be counted against you, no matter how long ago it occurred. However, a skilled defense attorney can investigate possible procedural errors or lack of probable cause to reduce the severity of the punishment, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
In Colorado, both DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) are serious offenses. A DUI is charged when your BAC is 0.08% or higher, while a DWAI applies when BAC levels are between 0.05% and 0.079%. Penalties for DWAI are typically less severe than for DUI but can still result in license suspension, fines, and points on your driving record. An experienced attorney can help differentiate between the two and build a defense that minimizes penalties.
In Colorado, a fourth DUI offense automatically becomes a felony, which carries significantly harsher penalties, including extended jail time, loss of driving privileges, and heavy fines. A felony DUI conviction can also impact your future employment and housing opportunities. However, even in these severe cases, there are defense strategies available. An experienced attorney can challenge the evidence, question the legality of the arrest, and work to reduce the charges or penalties.
When defending against a DUI charge in Colorado, five key factors come into play: the reason for the traffic stop, observations of impairment (like slurred speech or bloodshot eyes), statements made during the arrest, the performance of field sobriety tests, and the results of chemical tests like breath or blood analysis. An attorney can challenge these factors, potentially identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that could lead to reduced penalties or an outright dismissal.
In DUI cases, there are opportunities to suppress key evidence if law enforcement fails to follow proper procedures. Evidence such as field sobriety test results, breathalyzer readings, or incriminating statements can be challenged based on improper administration or violation of civil rights. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can file motions to suppress evidence, which may significantly weaken the prosecution’s case and lead to reduced charges or even a dismissal.
Breath test results are commonly used as evidence in DUI cases, but they are not always reliable. Calibration errors, improper use of testing devices, or physiological conditions can lead to inaccurate readings. A skilled DUI attorney can examine these factors, challenge the accuracy of the breath test, and argue for the exclusion of this evidence in court. Successfully challenging breath test results can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case and may lead to a favorable outcome.
Blood test results are often used as key evidence in DUI cases, but errors in collection, storage, or analysis can introduce inaccuracies. Colorado law requires specific protocols for handling blood samples, and deviations from these rules can weaken the prosecution’s case. An experienced attorney will evaluate the timing of the test, machine calibration, and the chain of custody to challenge the results, possibly leading to reduced charges or a case dismissal.
Challenging a DUI charge involves scrutinizing several critical factors: the legitimacy of the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and the accuracy of chemical testing. Law enforcement must follow strict protocols during a DUI arrest, and any failure to do so may weaken the case against you. Additionally, questioning the reliability of roadside maneuvers or improper BAC testing can open the door to dismissing or reducing the charges. If you’re facing a DUI charge in Colorado, consult McAdams Law Office for trusted and experienced representation, where their team will develop a strong defense strategy to help dismiss or reduce your charges—contact them today for a free consultation.
Probable cause is a critical legal standard that allows law enforcement to make arrests, conduct searches, and seize property when there’s a reasonable basis supported by tangible evidence. This principle ensures that police cannot act solely on suspicion or instinct, but must rely on facts like witness accounts, physical evidence, or clear observations. In Colorado, like in the rest of the U.S., probable cause plays a vital role in safeguarding individuals’ constitutional rights. If you believe an officer lacked probable cause in your case, it’s possible to challenge the validity of their actions, which could lead to the suppression of evidence and, in some cases, dismissal of charges.
Under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, you’re protected from unreasonable searches and seizures. For police to search your property without a warrant, they must have probable cause. For example, if an officer spots illegal substances in plain view inside your vehicle, that constitutes probable cause to search your car. However, when it comes to personal items like bags or wallets, the law is stricter. In some cases, searches of personal belongings have been ruled unconstitutional, and evidence obtained in this manner may be thrown out in court. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, you might have grounds to fight the charges or have them reduced.
When appropriate, we will challenge the state’s evidence against you at every turn, in our efforts to help you beat a DUI charge. We will:
A DUI conviction in Colorado comes with serious penalties such as jail time, license revocation, and fines. Hiring a local DUI attorney is crucial to effectively navigate the legal system and mitigate these consequences. A skilled attorney provides critical legal advice, helps manage court appearances, and communicates with prosecutors on your behalf. They also identify key defense strategies, such as challenging evidence or negotiating plea deals, and work to reinstate your license through DMV hearings. Having expert legal representation can significantly improve your case outcome.
A DUI attorney in Colorado can provide expert guidance through the criminal justice process, from advising you on potential penalties to representing you in court. They are essential in negotiating plea deals, identifying defense strategies, and working to minimize the consequences you may face, such as helping you regain your driver’s license after suspension.
¨We’re not just a business in Weld County; we’re a part of the community. Living and working here, we’re dedicated to supporting the people of Greeley. Our office is right by the courthouse, deep in the heart of the local legal scene. With over 140 jury trials in 20 years, our experienced attorneys understand that everyone deserves respect and a strong defense, no matter the situation¨
If you’re facing DUI charges in Larimer County, Weld County, or surrounding areas, speaking with an experienced Greeley DUI defense attorney is critical. A skilled lawyer can help defend your rights, protect your future, and guide you through the complexities of the legal system. Call (970) 353-0000 for a free consultation that is confidential. You may also send us a secure and confidential email to schedule an appointment.
Jail time is typically reserved for individuals with prior DUI offenses, very high blood alcohol levels, accidents involving injuries, or driving under the influence with children in the vehicle. If your situation doesn’t involve these factors, jail is usually not a concern.
Most DUI charges result in a temporary loss of driving privileges. However, with the help of an experienced DUI attorney, the suspension can sometimes be reduced to as little as 30 days. Learn here How to Get Your License Back After a DUI in Colorado.
Absolutely. A skilled DUI attorney is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome. From exploring your legal options to thoroughly investigating your case, an attorney with experience in DUI law is invaluable. It’s essential to work with someone who specializes in DUI cases to benefit from their expertise.
In most cases, no. Alternatives such as work release programs or, in some instances, in-home detention are available.
At McAdams Law Office, our DUI defense attorneys in Greeley offer flexible payment plans and accept credit card payments to help accommodate your budget.
Facing a criminal charge or DUI in Greeley? Our experienced criminal defense and DUI attorneys in Greeley, CO are here to defend your rights and help you navigate the legal system.
Charged with a crime in Weld County? Our dedicated criminal defense and DUI attorneys in Weld County are ready to fight for your best possible outcome and protect your future.
If you’re facing criminal or DUI charges in Fort Collins, our team at McAdams Law Office provides experienced legal defense to help you get through these challenging times.
Dealing with a DUI or criminal accusation in Loveland, CO? Our skilled criminal defense attorneys are prepared to protect your rights and guide you every step of the way.
In Windsor and facing criminal or DUI charges? Our experienced Windsor criminal defense attorneys are here to provide the strong legal defense you need to safeguard your future.
I had hired Bill and Jonathon to help me with a Charge of domestic violence. Never once was I confused, or had the feeling of being isolated and alone. They listened and put together a such a strong case that the prosecuters didn’t stand a chance. Thank you very much for believing in me and taking my case!
I highly recommend Bill. He is the best attorney around. He knows exactly what he’s doing, exactly what he is talking about. Law And defending his clients is his thing and he is extremely good at it. Bill and his team were always extremely responsive and professional. I am so pleased with the outcome of my legal matter. I am happy and relieved to say that my case was dismissed. Deali...
Bill McAdams and his associates provided me with the utmost professional service. Over the course of my case they were always there to answer all my questions of which there were many. They provided me with a feeling of security and that my case was going to be handled properly and get me the best outcome possible. I can’t thank Bill and his associates enough for the service they...
Mr. McAdams is an extremely knowledgeable attorney with a great and informative staff keeping you updated every step of the way. I am more than satisfied with the outcome of my case. I give the whole law firm 10 out of 10.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partiner, William McAdams who has more than 25 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
