Denver DUI Lawyer

Other Types of DUI Related Offenses

In addition to DUI, the following other types of alcohol and controlled substance-related traffic offenses are regulated by state law and prosecuted similarly:

DWAI in Colorado

According to Colorado state law, driving while ability impaired (DWAI) occurs when you operate a vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs -- or a combination of both.

These substances must result in you being unable to the exercise clear judgment mentally or physically, thereby impairing your ability to drive safely to the slightest degree. 

What is the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI in Colorado?

In Colorado, a DUI is a more severe offense than a DWI. The main difference is the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC).

Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you may still face DWAI charges. Any BAC above .05 but below the .08 threshold will result in a DWAI charge in Colorado.

DUID in Colorado

Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) has become a particular focus of law enforcement since 2012, when Colorado voters approved the legalization of recreational marijuana. 

But the type of drug doesn’t matter when it comes to DUID — if law enforcement officers deem that you’re impaired, you will be arrested and charged accordingly.

You will be required to submit to a blood test and failure to comply will result in you being charged with a Refusal and potentially losing your license for a minimum of one year.

UDD in Colorado

Underage drunk driving (UDD) involves anyone under the age of 21 operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

In accordance with the law, offenders who are not of the legal drinking age and have BACs that measure above .02 percent — the equivalent of less than one drink for many people — face charges and penalties if convicted.

What to Look for in a DUI Defense Attorney

When facing DUI charges, securing a competent defense attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are several critical attributes to consider when selecting a DUI defense attorney:

Expertise and Experience

A proficient DUI defense attorney should possess extensive experience in handling DUI cases. This specialized knowledge allows them to navigate the complexities of DUI laws effectively. Look for an attorney with a proven track record of successful defenses, as this indicates their ability to strategize effectively and achieve favorable outcomes for their clients.

Local Knowledge

DUI laws and procedures can vary significantly by jurisdiction. An attorney familiar with the local court system, prosecutors, and judges can leverage this knowledge to your advantage. Their understanding of local nuances can help in negotiating plea deals or identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Reputation and Reviews

Researching an attorney's reputation can provide valuable insights into their reliability and effectiveness. Online reviews, client testimonials, and peer endorsements can highlight their strengths and potential weaknesses. Additionally, professional accolades and memberships in legal associations can further validate their credibility.

Communication Skills

Clear and open communication is essential in a legal defense. A good DUI attorney should be accessible, responsive, and able to explain complex legal concepts in understandable terms. This ensures you remain informed about your case's progress and can make informed decisions throughout the legal process.

Personalized Attention

Every DUI case is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach is seldom effective. Seek an attorney who is willing to invest time in understanding the specific details of your case and tailoring their defense strategy accordingly. Personalized attention increases the likelihood of identifying unique defense opportunities that might be overlooked in a more generic approach.

Benefits of Hiring a DUI Law Firm

Hiring a criminal defense law firm in Denver, CO, can be beneficial for those looking to navigate the complexities of DUI laws. With their specialized knowledge and experience, Denver DUI defense attorneys can help you understand your rights and the potential consequences of your case.

A criminal defense law firm can investigate all aspects of your DUI case, evaluate evidence, build an effective defense strategy, and provide legal advice that is tailored to your specific circumstances. Additionally, they will handle all court appearances on your behalf and negotiate with prosecutors if appropriate in order to achieve the best possible outcome.

Criminal defense attorneys can help reduce the impact of a DUI charge on your future by negotiating alternate sentences or helping you enroll in rehabilitation programs if necessary. This may include an alcohol education class, driver improvement courses, or even community service. By taking these steps with the assistance of a professional, you have a greater chance of avoiding severe penalties such as jail time or high fines from the court system.  

How The Orr Law Firm Can Help

With the potential penalties in mind, you can understand why it's critically important to work with a trustworthy DUI lawyer to fight the charges against you. 

At The Orr Law Firm our Colorado DUI lawyers have the skill and experience you need to ensure you receive the best possible outcome given the facts of your case. 

We use effective defense strategies to:

• Minimize jail time
• Avoid hefty fines 
• And preserve your driving privileges

Experienced and well-trained, we keep you informed at every step in your case and help you explore all of your legal options. Call us today at (303) 747-4247 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.