free case Consultation
(720) 740-3466
(720) 740-3466
Any arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious matter, even for a first offense. While the risk of a lengthy jail term might be low, there could be serious long-term consequences if you have a DUI conviction on your record. A dedicated DUI defense attorney’s support could make all the difference in your case. After an arrest for a first-time DUI in Boulder, you should immediately reach out to legal counsel for help. The right lawyer could represent you in court, advise you of your options, and serve as your advocate throughout the legal process.
When someone is arrested under suspicion of driving while intoxicated, they could face two distinct legal proceedings: a criminal trial and an administrative hearing that could cost them their driving privileges.
People arrested for the first time for driving while drunk or under the influence of drugs see their charges play out in a Boulder court. Prosecutors represent the state, and a judge hears the case. If convicted, the defendant faces jail time, fines, and other penalties.
The administrative case is not connected to the charges in any way. The Department of Motor Vehicles conducts hearings, and violators have a limited amount of time to request them.
In Boulder, the penalties for first-time offenders of driving while intoxicated may vary. While Colorado law typically treats this offense as a misdemeanor, certain circumstances can lead to it being upgraded to a felony. This occurs most commonly in situations in which a drunk driver causes an accident that injures or kills someone.
Even in a misdemeanor case, a conviction can have costly consequences. A person could face fines of up to $1,000 in addition to any court costs the judge might order them to pay. There is also the risk of a jail term of five days to one year. Judges have the leeway to suspend a sentence or place someone on probation. They can also require defendants to complete up to 96 hours of community service after a conviction.
A Boulder lawyer could focus on one of two distinct defense strategies in first-offense DUI cases: challenging the traffic stop and disputing the accuracy of the chemical tests.
The police do not have the right to pull people over without an appropriate reason. If they do not have a reasonable suspicion of someone committing a traffic violation when they stop a car, an attorney could later file a motion with the court to have any evidence that was collected during the stop thrown out. This includes any admissions made about drinking and the results of breath tests.
Challenging blood, breath, and urine test results is another strong option. State law has strict requirements concerning sample collection and testing. Failing to comply with those requirements can lead to inaccurate results and a motion for dismissal.
If you face charges for a first-time DUI in Boulder, seeking legal help as quickly as possible is critical. The sooner you talk to a lawyer, the better your chances of a favorable result. A DUI conviction can mean jail time, fines, and other serious consequences. The right attorney could help you beat these charges and avoid any penalties. Call Petrash Law today to schedule a free consultation about your DUI case.