Commerce City DUI Defense Lawyer
Driving under the influence (DUI) in Commerce City, Colorado, carries severe penalties. Depending on the circumstances and prior offenses, consequences can include:
- Fines: First-time offenders may face fines ranging from $600 to $1,000, while repeat offenders could pay significantly more.
- License Suspension: A first offense can result in a license suspension of up to 9 months, with longer suspensions for repeat violations.
- Jail Time: Offenders may spend 5 days to 1 year in jail for a first offense, with harsher penalties for subsequent DUIs.
- Community Service: DUI convictions often require mandatory community service ranging from 48 to 120 hours.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Many offenders must install this device on their vehicle as a condition of reinstating their driving privileges.
Each case is unique, and penalties can escalate if aggravating factors, such as high blood alcohol content (BAC) or causing an accident, are involved. Trust DeChant Law to be your reliable Commerce City DUI defense lawyer and advocate.
What to Do If Arrested or Pulled Over
Facing a DUI arrest or being pulled over can be intimidating, but your actions can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Follow these steps:
- Stay Calm and Comply: Remain polite and follow the officer’s instructions. Do not resist or argue, as this can complicate your situation.
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Politely decline to answer questions beyond providing basic information. Avoid admitting guilt or discussing alcohol consumption.
- Refuse Field Sobriety Tests: Colorado law allows you to decline roadside sobriety tests, which can be subjective.
- Decide on a Chemical Test: Refusing a breath or blood test can lead to automatic license suspension, but agreeing may provide evidence against you. Consider your decision carefully.
- Contact a DUI Attorney: Seek legal representation immediately to protect your rights and build your defense.
How the DUI Process Works
The DUI legal process in Commerce City follows several key stages:
- Arrest: The process begins with an officer pulling you over, conducting tests, and making an arrest if they suspect intoxication.
- Booking and Release: After your arrest, you may be booked and released with a court date or held in custody.
- DMV Hearing: You must request a hearing within seven days to contest the license suspension.
- Court Proceedings: The case proceeds with arraignment, pretrial motions, and possibly a trial. During this time, your attorney can negotiate or build a defense.
- Sentencing: If convicted, you will face penalties such as fines, license suspension, or mandatory programs.
Understanding the process and having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Top 10 Neighborhoods in Commerce City
Commerce City offers a variety of vibrant neighborhoods. Here are the top 10:
- Reunion
- Fronterra Village
- Buffalo Highlands
- Turnberry
- Second Creek Farms
- Potomac Farms
- Buckley Ranch
- Eagle Creek
- Villages at Buffalo Run
- Irondale
How DeChant Law Can Help
If you are facing DUI charges, DeChant Law is here to provide skilled legal representation. With a deep understanding of Commerce City DUI laws, we can assess your case, challenge evidence, and negotiate for reduced penalties or dismissal. From the moment you contact us, we will guide you through every step of the process, protecting your rights and working toward the best possible outcome.