We’ll Help You Understand DUI Penalties And Your Options

Dismissed

DUI

People v. P.S.: We successfully suppressed evidence due to a faulty stop, leading to the
dismissal of DUI charges related to weaving on the road.

People v. P.S.

Dismissed

DUI

After challenging the validity of a stop and coercive statements, we secured a dismissal of DUI and Open Container charges.

People v. B.E.

Dismissed

DUI

Argued the invalidity of a chemical test administered to our client, resulting in the
dismissal of the DUID (Drugs) and Speeding charges.

People v. J.H.

Plea Agreement

DUI

Negotiated a plea to Reckless Driving, dismissing charges of DUI and Speeding after defeating the case at the DMV hearing.

People v. S.D.

Dismissed

DUI

People v. P.S.: We successfully suppressed evidence due to a faulty stop, leading to the
dismissal of DUI charges related to weaving on the road.

People v. P.S.

Dismissed

DUI

After challenging the validity of a stop and coercive statements, we secured a dismissal of DUI and Open Container charges.

People v. B.E.
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Drunk driving penalties are both criminal and administrative in Colorado. A criminal court judge will determine your sentence in the criminal part of your case, while the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will suspend your driving privileges. These two cases are completely distinct from one another; for example, your case could potentially be dismissed at the DMV and you would keep your driver’s privileges, but you could be convicted in criminal court.

Attorney William (Bill) T. McAdams is a former Colorado prosecutor who is now in private practice as a criminal defense attorney. He can review your case in a free initial consultation and explain your potential options for both the criminal case and the DMV case against you. He is skilled and experienced in helping clients defend against DUI charges and in protecting their drivers’ privileges.

Contact a DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal court judges can make decisions on:

  • the amount of time you spend in jail
  • the amount of community service you must fulfill
  • the amount, if any, of alcohol or drug counseling needed
  • the amount of the fine you will be required to pay

Factors that play a role in the determination of your penalty include whether you have been arrested on DUI charges or other alcohol-related charges in the past, whether you were involved in an accident at the time of your arrest and if anyone was hurt, your attitude and demeanor while under arrest, your behavior since your arrest and whether you have attended alcohol counseling or treatment. Perhaps as important to your case’s outcome is the quality of the attorney you retain to defend you. A skilled attorney can find weaknesses in the evidence that may mean case dismissal or at the very least, a reduction in the charges against you.

The penalties for a DUI or DWAI conviction vary significantly. For the most part, a first-time conviction on a DUI or DWAI charge will not involve jail time.

Crime Level of Crime Jail Range Mandatory Jail Addition Suspended Jail Probation Fines Community Service
1st DWAI Misdemeanor 2 days – 180 days None None 0 – 2 years $200 – $500 24 – 48 hours
1st DUI Misdemeanor 5 days – 1 year None None 0 – 2 years $600 – $1,000 48 – 96 hours
1st DUI with BAC > .200 Misdemeanor 10 days – 1 year 10 days None 0 – 2 years $600 – $1,000 48 – 96 hours
2nd Offense Misdemeanor 10 days – 1 year 10 days 1 year 2 – 4 years $600 – $1,500 48 – 120 hours
3rd Offense Misdemeanor 60 days – 1 year 60 days 1 year 2 – 4 years $600 – $1,500 48 – 120 hours
4th+ Offense Felony Up to 12 years of prison None None Up to Lifetime $2,000 – $500,000 Discretion of the Court

Ignition Interlock Device

In many of these cases, a DMV conviction will also require that you install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, which means that once you regain your driver’s license, you will need to blow into this device, which will measure your blood alcohol content, before you are able to start your car.

Call Us When You Need Experienced, Effective DUI Defense

Whether you are facing a DWAI or you have been charged as a repeat DUI offender, McAdams Law Office is prepared to provide you with skilled, supportive and timely defense of your rights. To discuss your case with Mr. McAdams in a free, confidential initial consultation, please 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.

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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.

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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.