First Offense DUI or DWAI in Colorado

The first DUI in Colorado results in both criminal and administrative penalties. However, aside from DUI charges, which involve drivers found with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) above .08, Colorado also includes penalties for DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) violations, or drivers with BAC above .05 to less than .08.

Administrative Penalties

The first offense DUI in Colorado results in a 3 month suspension of one's driver's license. The first offense DWAI in Colorado  doesn't result in an administrative license suspension, but adds twelve (12) points to a driver’s licens.

Reinstatement in DUI cases depends on one completing a alcohol/substance abuse assessment and treatment program and, if the driver BAC is above .17, a mandatory use of an ignition interlock device.

Criminal Penalties

In Colorado a first offense DUI carries a mandatory minimum period of incarceration set at 5 days, with a potential of incarceration up to 1 year, with the possibility of suspending the jail sentence if the offender attends a treatment program.

First offense DWAI convictions in Colorado results in a mandatory minimum period of incarceration set at two days, with a maximum of 180 days, with the possibility of a suspended sentence.

Fines for DUI in Colorado range from $600 to $1000, with fine amounts not covering costs associated with completion of other terms of sentence.

Fines for DWAI in Colorado range from $200 to $500, with fine amounts not covering costs associated with completion of other terms of sentence.

In Colorado, community service mandates in either DUI or DWAI are likely. Convictions influence charges and sentencing in future DUI or DWAI cases indefinitely.

Getting Legal Help

If you want to know more about a received DUI or DWAI, it is important you consult with a lawyer as soon as possible following arrest.