Differences Between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd DUI Charges in CO

What If I’m a First-Time DUI Offender in Colorado?

Drinking and having a good time with friends is a regular occurrence for many people. It can turn into a night you’ll never forget, however, if you decide to drink and then get behind the wheel. If this is your first time being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you may be wondering what happens next and what the consequences will be.

If you are a first-time DUI offender in Colorado, you may face the following penalties:

A fine of up to $1,000
Up to one year in jail
A driver’s license suspension of nine months
An alcohol education or treatment program

These penalties are for standard DUI offenses. If your DUI involved any aggravating factors, such as a high blood alcohol content (BAC) or an accident, you may face more severe penalties.

In Colorado, a first-time DUI is typically a misdemeanor offense. However, it can be charged as a felony in some cases, such as if you have a prior DUI on your record from another state.

If you are facing first-time DUI charges, it is important to contact an experienced Colorado DUI lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can review the facts of your case and develop a strong defense strategy to help you avoid the most serious penalties.

What If I’ve Been Charged with DUI Twice?

If you are convicted of a second DUI offense in Colorado, you will face more severe penalties than those imposed for a first-time DUI. The specific penalties you face will depend on several factors, including how long it has been since your first DUI and whether there were any aggravating factors involved in your second offense.

Some of the possible penalties for a second DUI offense in Colorado include:

A fine of up to $1,500
Up to one year in jail
A driver’s license suspension of one year
An alcohol education or treatment program
Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for 2-5 years

If you are facing charges for a second DUI offense, it is important to contact an experienced Colorado DUI lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can review the facts of your case and help you understand your legal options.

What If This Is My Third Time Being Charged with a DUI in Colorado?

If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Colorado for the third time, you will be facing some very serious penalties. Depending on the severity of your offense and your blood alcohol level, you could be facing up to a year in jail and a $1,500 fine. You will also be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device to your car for 2-5 years and even serve 48-120 hours of public service. You may also have your license completely revoked.

If you are arrested for DUI in Colorado, it is important that you contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the possible defenses that may be available to you. Do not try to represent yourself in court – the consequences are simply too high.