Conviction for an alcohol-related driving offense in Colorado can result in significant financial consequences. In addition to the legal penalties, there’s a myriad of costs that can quickly add up, impacting your wallet and your future. When considering fines, legal fees, and increased insurance expenses, a DUI can accumulate to over $13,500 and potentially lead to jail time. This blog will break down the various expenses you may face when dealing with an alcohol-related driving offense in Colorado, including both DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) offenses.
DUI Arrest: The Legal Penalties
What Are the Legal Penalties for Adult/Minor DUI (1st Offense)?
Let’s begin by examining the legal penalties you might face for a first-time DUI offense in Colorado.
- Jail: If convicted, you may serve anywhere from five days to one year in jail. It’s important to note that the judge may suspend the jail sentence under specific circumstances.
- Fines: DUI offenders can expect fines ranging from $600.00 to $1,000.00, in addition to court costs that can go up to $800.00.
- Useful Public Service: You may be required to perform useful public service as part of your penalty, which could range from 48 to 96 hours.
- Probation: DUI convictions can result in probation, which can last from 0 to 2 years. If placed on probation, there could be monthly costs of up to $60.00, particularly if your probation is supervised.
- Points: A DUI offense carries a significant consequence in terms of your driver’s license. It results in a substantial 12 points being added to your driver’s license.
Dealing with the legal aftermath of a DUI offense is complex and requires professional guidance. Contact Shipp Law to ensure you receive expert assistance in managing these penalties and protecting your rights.
DWAI Arrest: The Legal Penalties
What Are the Legal Penalties for Adult/Minor DWAI (1st Offense)?
Now, let’s explore the legal penalties for a first-time DWAI offense in Colorado. Please note that the penalties for DWAI differ from those of DUI.
If you’re facing a DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) offense in Colorado, the legal penalties can significantly impact your life. Here’s a breakdown of the penalties you may encounter:
- Jail: DWAI offenders may face a minimum of 2 days in county jail, with a maximum sentence of up to 180 days. However, the minimum jail time can be suspended if the offender undergoes and satisfactorily completes an alcohol program.
- BAC 0.20 or More: For DWAI cases where the offender’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.20 or more, the court must impose a mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail, with a maximum sentence of up to one year.
- Fines: Fines for a DWAI offense range from $200.00 to $500.00.
- Useful Public Service: DWAI offenders may have to perform a minimum of 24 hours and up to a maximum of 48 hours of useful public service.
- Probation: The court may order probation for up to 2 years, and probation begins immediately upon sentencing. It’s important to note that the court shall not sentence the defendant to probation if they are sentenced to the Department of Corrections.
- Restitution: As a condition of probation, the court may order the payment of restitution.
- Points: A DWAI offense carries a significant consequence in terms of your driver’s license. It results in 8 points being added to your driver’s license.
Dealing with a DWAI offense in Colorado can be complex and costly. It’s essential to seek professional legal advice to navigate these penalties and protect your rights. Contact Shipp Law for expert guidance and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
Additional Legal Costs and Fees
The legal penalties are just the tip of the iceberg. Numerous additional costs can catch you off guard, such as:
- Defense Attorney: $2,500.00 – $10,000.00 depending on the case.
- Chemical testing Fees: $30.00 – $300.00.
- Towing Fees: $160.00 plus mileage.
- Car Storage Fees: $30.00 per day.
- Jail Fee: $54.00 per day.
- Alcohol Treatment Evaluation: $200.00.
- Bail Fee: +/- $200.00.
- Alcohol Education classes: $30.00 – $50.00 per session.
- Probation Supervision fee: $50.00 per month.
- Victim Assistance Fund: $150.00 – $300.00.
- Victim Impact Panel: $78.00.
- Ignition Interlock Installation: $70.00 – $200.00, Monthly fees: $60.00 – $90.00.
- Law Enforcement Assistance Fund: $480.00.
- Community Service Supervision Fee: $90.00.
- License Retesting/New License: $60.00.
- Auto Insurance increase: $601.00 on average in Colorado.
- Brain Injury Trust Fund: $25.00.
- LEAF Assessment fee: $90.00.
- Victims Compensation Fund: $33.00.
- Persistent Drunk Drivers SCHG: $100.00.
- Victims Assistance Fund: $100.00.
Conclusion:
Facing an alcohol-related driving offense in Colorado, whether it’s a DUI or DWAI, goes beyond legal fines and penalties. The hidden costs can be substantial and, in some cases, ongoing. It’s crucial to be aware of the full financial impact and to seek professional legal advice to navigate this complex situation.
Ready to Act?
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of an alcohol-related driving offense in Colorado, whether it’s a DUI or DWAI, it’s not something to handle alone. Contact Shipp Law for expert guidance and protect your rights and your financial future.