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Drinking and driving is a serious criminal matter, and prosecutors are invariably aggressive when seeking convictions in driving under the influence (DUI) cases, especially for anyone with prior convictions on their record.
If you are facing a third-time DUI in Boulder, you could benefit from discussing your options with legal counsel right away. The sooner you speak with a DUI defense attorney, the better your chances of a successful outcome become.
A third DUI conviction in Boulder is a serious offense, which often brings lasting consequences. The law treats third-time offenders as habitual drunk drivers, and penalties are significantly harsher than for first DUIs or second offenses. If you are ultimately convicted, you could face a range of penalties, including the following.
First-time offenders are often able to avoid jail time following a DUI conviction, but that is not the case after a third arrest. State law requires a mandatory minimum jail sentence, including a minimum of 60 consecutive days in county jail. There is no opportunity for early release or alternative sentencing in these cases. You could face up to a year in jail, depending on the circumstances. Judges are more likely to pass a heavier sentence in cases involving motor vehicle accidents or the refusal to submit to a chemical test.
In addition to incarceration, a third DUI can also result in fines of up to $1,500. On top of these fines, a judge could also require you to pay for court costs or the expenses related to installing an ignition interlock device.
A third DUI will also trigger a lengthy revocation of your driving privileges. The state typically imposes a two-year revocation period for a third DUI offense. Before reinstating your license, you will need to complete certain requirements, such as passing a course on alcohol abuse and securing an SR-22 insurance certificate. Some drivers may qualify for restricted licenses after a portion of the revocation period has passed, which would allow them to drive in limited situations, such as to work or school.
There are also collateral consequences to consider when it comes to a third DUI conviction in Boulder. First, a DUI conviction can damage your reputation and standing in the community. In fact, an arrest alone can lead to challenges at work or in your personal relationships. That said, being found guilty of the offense carries far more weight.
Additionally, you could lose out on employment opportunities. This is especially true if driving is a key part of your job duties. You may also face the loss of your professional license, particularly if you have already faced alcohol-related discipline issues in your field. Most employers conduct criminal background checks, and having a conviction on your record will only work against you during future job hunts.
In addition to fines and court costs, there are other financial implications to consider. You will typically see your auto insurance premiums increase dramatically, and these increases can take years to go down. As with the risk of jail time or fines, you can avoid these collateral consequences by beating the charges against you and avoiding a criminal conviction.
Instead of facing a third-time DUI in Boulder on your own, it is in your best interest to get help from legal counsel you can trust. The right attorney could make all the difference in your case, helping you avoid a conviction and keep your record clean. Time is critical, so get in touch with Petrash Law today to discuss your options during a confidential consultation.