What is the Legal Limit in Colorado?
To understand DUI Punishment, you must first understand what is considered a DUI or alcohol related driving offense. Under Colorado law, a person commits the offense of DUI if they operate a motor vehicle with a BAC greater than .08. A person commits the offense of DWAI if they operate a motor vehicle with a BAC greater than .05. Additionally, a person can be charged with a DUI if they have 5 nanograms of active THC in their system at the time of driving. There is not limit for THC under the DWAI statute.
What are the DUI Punishments in Colorado?
The punishments for DUI’s and alcohol related driving offenses can be found at C.R.S § 42-4-1307. A DUI in the State of Colorado is considered an unclassified misdemeanor. The Colorado DUI Penalties depends on a variety of factors. The maximum possible jail sentence is 1 year and a fine from $600-$1,000. A defendant is also required to complete 48-96 hours of community service.
A first time DUI has a minimum 5 day jail sentence, but the jail can be suspended upon the successful completion of an alcohol and substance abuse class. However, a DUI involving a blood alcohol content (“BAC”) above a .20 has a mandatory 10 days of jail. In addition to jail, a defendant will also be placed on probation. The typical length of probation for a first offense is one year. The standard requirements of probation for a DUI are to complete an alcohol and substances abuse class, complete a MADD Victim Impact Panel, complete community service, and submit the monitored sobriety. A conviction for DWAI first offense can be punished by up to six months in jail or a fine of up to $500.
A second DUI or DWAI has a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 10 day with a maximum possible sentence of one year. The jail sentence may be served on in-home detention if the prior alcohol related driving offense is greater than five years old. A third offense carries a mandatory minimum 60 days jail sentence with a maximum of one year. The mandatory minimum 60 days are not eligible for in-home detention. Second and greater DUIs also require a mandatory two-year probation period, and the court will suspend an extra one year of jail on a defendant upon successful completion of probation.
It is important to remember that the mandatory minimum sentences are the lowest the Court can impose on a defendant. While subsequent offenses have mandatory minimum sentences, the court will look at other aggravating factors and mitigating factors to determine the appropriate sentence. It is not unusual for judges to impose jail sentences higher than the mandatory minimum. There are actions that can be taken to help reduce the potential for jail. To better understand your situation, request a free consultation today.
What Does Jail Mean for a Colorado DUI?
When is a DUI considered a Felony in Colorado?
A fourth DUI is considered a felony under Colorado law. For more information concerning Felony DUI please speak with our attorney today or visit our Felony DUI Section. In addition, a DUI involving an accident that results in serious bodily injury is considered a vehicular assault. Vehicular assault is a felony offense.
What is a prior DUI conviction under Colorado Law?
A DUI in Colorado requires aggressive and competent representation. We’re open during regular business hours, but we will stay late or be available on weekends if necessary. Schedule a free consultation today. Our DUI Defense Attorney is ready, willing and able to discuss and defend you against any DUI/DWAI charge. Our law firm represents individuals in Arapahoe County, Douglas County, Denver County, Adams County, Jefferson County, Elbert County, and any other Court in the State of Colorado.