Driving Under the Influence Lawyer Summit County CO
A driving under the influence lawyer Summit County CO is well aware that when you got behind the wheel, the last thing you expected was to experience the consequences of a DUI. Without the right legal representation, those charged with a DUI could be impacted in a life-changing way. The penalties for a DUI can be far-reaching, which is one of the many reasons to contact a lawyer. Zweig Law PC, Attorneys at Law will tell you that taking the right steps following an accident will be critical.
Understanding DUI Penalties in Colorado
The consequences of a DUI can result in social stigmatization and criminal penalties. This can be incredibly impactful, and in some cases, can play out over a long period. In Colorado, several variables impact the severity of a case. Driving with a BAC of .05% is classified as a DWAI or driving while ability impaired. This is a lesser charge that comes with less severe consequences. A DUI results in a BAC of .08% and, in most cases considered a misdemeanor. However, this can be upgraded to a felony charge if the driver has had three or more convictions. Some common penalties that a person might face include:
DWAI
- Misdemeanor
- 2-180 Days in Jail
- $200-$500 Fine
- Community Service
First Offense
- Misdemeanor
- 5-365 Days in Jail
- $600-$1,000 Fine
- Community Service
- License Suspension
Second Offense
- Misdemeanor
- 60-365 Days in Jail
- $600-$1,500 Fine
- Community Service
- License Suspension
Third Offense
- Felony
- Years in Prison
- Parole
- Hundred of Thousands in Fines
- Community Services
- License Suspension
Our DUI defense lawyer in Summit County CO shares that, in addition to the significant criminal consequences, a DUI also brings forth social ones as well. Your charge may be posted in the local paper; you may experience impacted and strained relationships, trouble obtaining employment, and even difficulty retaining housing.
Reasons You Need a Lawyer
For those facing a DUI conviction, it may be a good idea to reach out to an experienced lawyer to ensure that their rights are protected. In many situations, people may believe that they have no other option but to face the severe penalties that are sure to follow. However, this is just not the case. The guidance and legal representation of a lawyer may be critical for many reasons, including:
- They might be able to mitigate the consequences by having fines reduced, ultimately saving you money
- They may be able to help keep you out of jail
- Help you retain your driver’s license
- After reviewing the case, they may be able to find a way to have the charges dropped
A charge for driving under the influence doesn’t necessarily result in a criminal conviction, especially with the assistance of Zweig Law PC, Attorneys at Law. We know that a DUI’s repercussions can be socially stigmatizing, and our team can stand by your side during this incredibly challenging time. Legal representation offers many benefits, especially when the stakes are so high. If you have been charged with a DUI, the time to act is now. Contact our Summit County, Colorado driving under the influence lawyer before it’s too late.