If you’re facing charges for a DUI in Denver, you might be wondering, “Do I need a lawyer for my first DUI?” You might think that since it’s your first offense, the charges will be dropped or the judge will give you a slap on the wrist. Unfortunately, that’s not how things work. Any DUI in Denver brings serious legal consequences, even if it’s your first offense.
Before you make the mistake of heading to court with no lawyer, it’s a good idea to understand the possible outcomes you’re facing. Taking the time to consult a Denver DUI attorney is a smart choice that can have a significant impact on your future.
Getting Arrested for First-Offense DUI in Denver
Anytime you’re suspected of driving under the influence in Denver, you can be pulled over and assessed by law enforcement. Criteria for a DUI in Denver involve having either a blood alcohol level of over 0.08% or five or more nanograms of THC in your system. Police might conduct a field sobriety test, a breath test, or a blood test. However, if law enforcement determines that you are clearly impaired, you can be charged with DUI regardless of your test result.
It’s relatively easy for Colorado law enforcement to charge you with a DUI, even if you’re not legally impaired.
It’s also important for Colorado drivers to know that under the state’s express consent laws, refusing to submit to sobriety testing can result in immediate DUI charges, even if the police can’t prove you were impaired. You can be charged with DUI in Denver for driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, prescription medication, or marijuana.
A first-offense DUI in Denver is serious. In addition to the penalties you face, it also means you permanently have a DUI on your record. This means that if you’re ever charged with DUI at any point in the future, you’ll face even harsher penalties.
Are you facing first-offense DUI charges in Denver? Call the Law Office of Kevin Cahill at 720-445-9887 and schedule a free consultation with an experienced Denver DUI defense lawyer.
Understanding the Consequences of a Denver First-Offense DUI
In some types of criminal cases, a first offense is regarded as relatively minor. However, that is not the case with DUIs. Even a first-offense DUI can bring significant consequences. Drivers faced with a first-time DUI are often shocked to learn how harsh the penalties can be for a one-time mistake.
If you’re facing charges for a first-offense DUI in Denver, possible outcomes of your court hearing include:
- Up to a year in jail
- Driver’s license suspension for up to nine months
- Up to 96 hours of community service
- Mandatory drug and alcohol counseling
- 12 points against your driver’s license
- Up to two years of probation
- Required use of an ignition interlock device upon license reinstatement
- Required SR22 insurance coverage.
Failing to hire a lawyer means nothing is standing between you and the harsh maximum penalties a judge can dole out for a first-time DUI.
Do I Need a Lawyer For My First DUI in Denver?
Once you understand the penalties you face for a first DUI, it’s easy to see why hiring a skilled DUI defense attorney is essential. First, a lawyer will explore options for having your DUI charges dropped. This is possible in many cases, especially if the police didn’t follow proper procedure or can’t conclusively prove you were driving while impaired.
If a lawyer can’t get your charges dropped, they can still make a substantial difference in how your case unfolds. Denver judges take driving under the influence very seriously because of how this type of action risks the lives and safety of others. You can’t assume the judge will let you off easily because it’s your first offense. Chances are just as good that a judge will attempt to make an example of you or teach you a lesson by ordering maximum sentencing.
A lawyer will build a defense for your DUI charges and argue for lenient sentencing. Often, this entails seeking a suspended sentence. With this sentence, you can avoid jail time in exchange for completing substance use counseling, probation, and community service. A lawyer may also be able to help get your license immediately reinstated under the condition that you install an ignition interlock device.
Call a Denver DUI Defense Lawyer Now
A first-time DUI in Denver puts your future at risk. You need a skilled lawyer to build a defense and help get your charges dropped or your sentencing reduced. The Law Office of Kevin Cahill is a Denver criminal defense firm with a track record of success. For over a decade, we’ve successfully helped Denver drivers faced with DUI obtain positive court outcomes.
Call the Law Office of Kevin Cahill at 720-445-9887 for a free consultation with an experienced Denver DUI defense lawyer.