If you’ve been charged with a felony DUI in Colorado, it’s important to understand the consequences you could face. In this state, a DUI charge can become a felony under certain circumstances, and a felony conviction can result in significant penalties.
Penalties for a Felony DUI in Colorado
If you are convicted of a felony DUI in Colorado, you could face the following consequences:
Prison time: A felony DUI conviction in Colorado can result in a prison sentence of up to six years.
Mandatory Jail Time: After three prior alcohol-related convictions, you will face mandatory jail time of at least 90 days straight time. Work release may be an option if the minimum sentence is extended to 120 days.
Fines: You could be ordered to pay substantial fines, which could range into thousands of dollars.
Community service: You may well be ordered to complete a significant number of community services.
License suspension: Your license will be suspended for a period of time, which could be several years.
Alcohol and drug evaluation: You will be required to complete an alcohol and drug evaluation, and comply with any recommended treatment.
Ignition interlock device: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. The ignition interlock device (IID) is a device that is installed in a vehicle to prevent a driver from operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. In Colorado, an IID may be required as part of the penalties for a DUI conviction, or as a condition of probation. An IID is connected to the ignition system of a vehicle and requires the driver to blow into the device before starting the vehicle. If the device detects alcohol on the driver’s breath, the vehicle will not start. The driver may also be required to periodically provide breath samples while driving to ensure that they have not consumed alcohol since starting the vehicle.
Probation: You may be placed on probation for a period of time, which could be several years.
Reasons for a Felony DUI Charge
In Colorado, a DUI charge can become a felony under certain circumstances, including:
While other circumstances exist for the filing of a Felony DUI charge, the most common grounds are having three or more prior DUI convictions in a lifetime for alcohol-related offenses.
Defending Against a Felony DUI Charge
If you have been charged with a felony DUI in Colorado, it’s important to take the charge seriously and to take steps to defend yourself. A felony conviction can have serious consequences for your freedom, employment, driver’s license, and all aspects of your life. It’s important to do everything you can to avoid a conviction if possible. One of the best ways to defend against a DUI charge is to work with a DUI attorney. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the consequences you could face.
They can also help you build a defense, gather evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf. If you are facing a felony DUI charge in Colorado, don’t wait to take action. Contact a DUI attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and learn more about your options.
Conclusion
A felony DUI conviction in Colorado can result in serious penalties, including prison and/or jail time, fines, and license suspension. If you have been charged with a felony DUI, it’s important to take the charge seriously and to take steps to defend yourself. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the charges against you and build a strong defense to help you avoid a conviction.
