Being convicted of a DUI can lead to serious consequences that affect your freedom and reputation. A DUI attorney in Greeley CO may be able to help minimize these risks. In particular, you may want to consider contacting a DUI attorney in Greeley CO in the following situations:
You Need to Understand Your Rights
A DUI attorney can help explain your rights before you ever confront a DUI. It may be an ideal time to ask about this information when there are projected checkpoints and increased patrols due to DUI crackdowns or holidays. A DUI attorney can explain the ramifications of refusing to take a breath test in Colorado, such as an automatic license suspension and fine. Additionally, he or she can provide you with information about your right to remain silent or participate in other tests.
You Are Arrested
For a first DUI conviction, you face up to one year in jail and up to a fine of $1,000. You also face a suspension of your driver’s license for nine months. A DUI attorney can assess the case to determine if your constitutional rights were violated in order to pursue dismissal of your case. Effective negotiations with the district attorney and competent representation before a judge can make a significant difference in your case.
You Have Prior Convictions
The penalties for a DUI increase with each subsequent conviction with the potential of facing felony charges. Certain factors involved in the case may make the offense considered aggravated, which can cause the sentence to be harsher. If the offense involved an accident, a blood alcohol content over 0.20, reckless driving or there was a child in the vehicle at the time of the arrest, seriously considering contacting a DUI attorney.