DUI Attorneys in Louisville

DUI lawyers at Datz Law Firm are well-equipped to assist you through the DUI process and offer premier legal services that can favorably alter your case. When it comes to preserving your future, you need a committed team of experienced DUI attorneys by your side. 

There are several indicators that can tip a police officer off about a possible DUI. Erratic driving habits like swerving in and out of lanes and avoiding traffic laws are usually a dead giveaway that provides an officer with a valid reason to pull a driver over. Once pulled over, an officer will typically administer a Field Sobriety Test (FST) or a Breathalyzer Test to confirm any suspicions of driving under the influence. Tangible factors like red, watery eyes and the smell of alcohol or marijuana are also typical signs of somebody who is under the influence.

In most cases, handheld breathalyzer tests are usually not admissible in court, though they do determine probable cause to arrest the driver. During the stop, it's crucial to remain calm and cooperative, as any aggressive behavior or refusal to comply with an officer's requests can further complicate the situation and potentially lead to additional charges. It's important to understand your rights during a DUI stop, including your right to remain silent and your right to legal representation.

Knowing these rights can help you understand the situation more effectively and protect your interests. An officer may also observe the driver's behavior and conduct a preliminary search of the vehicle if they suspect the presence of open containers or illegal substances, adding to the evidence against the driver.

Colorado operates under an Express Consent Law, meaning that all drivers who get behind the wheel of a car enter into a social contract that requires them to consent to a blood or urine test. Refusing to consent to chemical testing can oftentimes lead to further consequences. A DUI defense attorney will analyze the procedures used by the police during and after the traffic stop while building a defense. Contact a DUI lawyer at Datz Law Firm as soon as possible after a DUI arrest so that your attorney can begin building your defense.

DUIs and DWAIs can drastically impact an individual’s day-to-day life and oftentimes have long-lasting effects. The consequences of a DUI charge are typically dependent on the severity of the offense and your driving history. 

First time offenders can face up to a year in jail and have to pay additional fines. This usually includes a license suspension of at least 9 months and mandatory community service time up to 48 hours. Jail time can be reduced through alcohol education and treatment programs.

A second DUI offense results in a mandatory 10 days of jail time at the minimum. Similarly, second time offenders are handed a small fine as well as a year-long license suspension. Individuals charged with a DUI may have to provide up to 120 hours of community service, while their probationary period can last anywhere between 2-4 years.

 A third DUI offense can lead to a 2-year license suspension, a mandatory 60 days in jail, and fines up to $1,500. It is also possible to receive an Aggravated DUI in Colorado, which carries much more weight than a typical DUI. These will usually occur when a driver has an incredibly high BAC, has a minor in the vehicle, is driving recklessly, or causes an accident/injury. Penalties for an Aggravated DUI are much more severe. Driving under the influence can also lead to severe accidents, and in some cases, offenders may face charges related to violent crimes such as vehicular homicide.

For anyone with a DUI conviction in the state of Colorado, an Ignition Interlock Device is required for at least 8 months. This device prevents any individual from starting their vehicle until they blow into the device and test negative for alcohol. Other consequences, such as substantially increased insurance premiums, are also likely to follow. DUIs and DWAIs will stay on an individual’s driving record and may have lasting consequences that affect future employment opportunities. A DUI attorney may be able to reduce potential jail time, fines and interlock device requirements, or avoid a DUI conviction altogether.

Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case.