Drunk Driving Penalties

Avoiding Jail and other DUI Consequences

Colorado Springs DUI/DWAI Defense Lawyers

The law firm of Moran & Heim, P.C. works to spare you from a conviction for drunk driving and the wide-ranging penalties. These punishments can cause financial hardship, result in jail time, and create problems in your work and personal life.

Our experienced DUI attorneys, Mike Moran and Geoff Heim, are familiar with all drunk driving penalties under Colorado statute, and what results will likely occur for a particular offense. We also know the diversion programs and alternative sentences available. Call us at 719-387-0427 to discuss your case.

Criminal Penalties for Drunk Driving

Most people will not get jail time on a first offense DUI unless there are enhancing factors: a crash, an assault, driving under suspension, or a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .20 or greater.

But there are many other penalties for a first conviction for DUI (.08):

License suspension and ignition interlock
Fines up to $1,000
Court costs of about $500
Costs of the interlock (about $1,000 more)
48 to 96 hours of community service
Probation of one to two years (probation can be supervised or unsupervised)
Alcohol evaluation, education, and treatment (at your expense)
Mother's Against Drunk Driving Victim Impact Panel
Restitution for chemical tests, injuries, and property damage
Alcoholics Anonymous
Random Breath Tests (BA's) and Urine Tests (UA's)

License suspension is handled by the Colorado DMV, separate from the criminal proceedings. There are many non-criminal consequences of a DUI conviction as well.

Statutory Penalties for DWAI and DUI

DWAI (BAC of .05), first offense — two days to 180 days in jail (the jail can be suspended if you complete alcohol education/therapy and community service), fines up to $500, 24 to 48 hours community service.
DWAI second offense — 45 days to one year in jail (all but five days of the jail can be suspended), fines of $300 to $1,000
DUI first offense — five days to one year in jail (the jail can be suspended if you complete probation terms), other penalties listed above
DUI second offense — 90 days to one year in jail (all but ten days can be suspended), fines $500 to $1,500, 60 to 120 hours of community service
DUI with BAC .20 or greater — Same as second offense DUI

The severe drunk driving penalties for a first-time offense, let alone repeat offenders, require aggressive and knowledgeable representation. REMEMBER, THE OUTCOME OF EVERY DUI CASE IS DEPENDENT ON THE INDIVIDUAL FACTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF THAT CASE! The penalties above are only imposed after a conviction. Our trial lawyers know how to challenge your DUI to get charges dismissed, reduced or to avoid those penalties. Every DUI or DWAI case must be individually analyzed so that alternatives to conviction can be explored. In the event that we are unable to reach a suitable resolution we are prepared to take your case to trial.

Moran & Heim serves clients in Colorado Springs and El Paso County, as well as Teller, Pueblo, Douglas and Fremont counties. We have represented many military personnel of Fort Carson, Peterson AFB and the Air Force Academy.

Call 719-387-0427 or contact us by e-mail for a free initial consultation.