DUI Lawyer in Fort Collins, CO

DUI Penalties in Colorado

• First offense: Fines are typically mandatory and range from $600 to $1,000. The jail term ranges from five days to one year, but is usually suspended unless the BAC is high (for example, 0.20 or higher). Up to 96 hours of community service, and a nine-month license revocation.
• Second offense: Up to one year in jail with a mandatory minimum of 10 days, fines up to $1,500, up to 120 hours of community service, and a one-year license revocation.
• Third or subsequent offense: Up to one year in jail with a mandatory minimum of 60 days, higher fines, longer probation, and the potential for a felony charge if aggravating factors are present. A fourth or subsequent DUI/DWAI is a Class 4 Felony, regardless of the time between offenses (which is a key distinction in Colorado).

DWAI Penalties in Colorado

• First offense: Up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $500, community service, and eight points on your driving record. Unlike a DUI, a first DWAI does not automatically trigger a license revocation.
• Subsequent convictions: Can lead to mandatory jail time, higher fines, longer community service, and harsher license penalties.

Even a first offense can have lasting effects on your record, insurance rates, and employment opportunities. 

A driver's license suspension or revocation can have disastrous consequences in Northern Colorado, where public transportation often falls short of meeting individuals' or families' daily transportation needs from Point A to Point B.

Drivers Under 21 

Drivers under 21 can face Underage Drinking and Driving (UDD) charges with a blood alcohol concentration as low as 0.02 percent. This is a Class A traffic infraction that carries a mandatory three-month license suspension, fines, and participation in an alcohol education program. 

If the BAC is higher, such as 0.05 percent or above, it can escalate to a DWAI or DUI, with harsher penalties. These charges can have lasting effects on a young person’s education, employment, and future, making experienced legal representation essential.

License Suspension & the Administrative Process

After a DUI arrest, the clock starts immediately on your driving privileges. You have only seven days from the date of your arrest to request an administrative hearing with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to challenge your license suspension. 

Missing this deadline will result in an automatic suspension, regardless of what happens in your criminal case. We handle both the criminal and administrative aspects of DUI cases, representing you at the DMV hearing and fighting to keep you on the road.

Why Choose Our Firm for DUI Defense

The Law Offices of Thomas W. Martin, LLC approaches DUI defense with the same tenacity and precision we bring to every criminal case. We understand the science behind breath and blood testing, know how to identify procedural errors, and have extensive experience negotiating with local prosecutors in Larimer and Weld Counties. 

Our familiarity with Northern Colorado courts, combined with our commitment to direct and personalized representation, means that your case will never be treated as just another file.

We also focus on mitigating long-term consequences, including helping clients pursue alternative sentencing options such as alcohol education programs or probation when appropriate. Our goal is not only to fight your charges but also to protect your future.

Speak with a Fort Collins DUI Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been arrested for DUI or DWAI in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, or anywhere in Northern Colorado, do not wait to get legal help. The sooner we get involved, the more options we have to protect your rights, your license, and your future. 

Contact us online or at (970) 444-9448 for your complimentary consultation with our Fort Collins DUI defense lawyer today.