5 Things To Do Immediately After Being Arrested for DUI in Colorado
What to Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest in Colorado
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Colorado, the situation can be overwhelming. Your instincts might tell you to refuse the Breathalyzer or field sobriety tests, especially if you believe you’re not legally intoxicated. However, complying with law enforcement can significantly impact your case’s outcome. This guide outlines five crucial steps to take immediately after a DUI arrest in Colorado, plus the single most important action you should take.
If you have been charged with a DUI, contact our offices in Colorado Springs, Highlands Ranch, or Castle Rock to get a FREE consultation.
- Comply with Law Enforcement
When you’re pulled over for suspected DUI, it’s vital to comply with police requests. If an officer asks for your name, date of birth, or to see your driver’s license and registration, provide these without hesitation. Remember, you can remain silent regarding questions that may incriminate you. Compliance doesn’t mean you have to answer every question; it means you should cooperate without giving away information that could hurt your case.
- Do Not Refuse the Breathalyzer
It may seem tempting to refuse a Breathalyzer test, but doing so can lead to harsher penalties, including automatic license suspension. Here are three reasons to comply with a Breathalyzer request:
- Demonstrates Cooperation: Agreeing to the test shows that you are compliant with law enforcement, which may work in your favor later in court.
- Error Rate: Breathalyzers have an error rate between .005 and .02%. Factors such as medical conditions can affect the accuracy of results, and it’s essential to remember that false positives can occur.
- Timing Matters: If you wait for a blood test after having recently consumed alcohol, your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) could be higher than what the Breathalyzer might indicate.
- Follow Instructions for the Field Sobriety Test
If the officer requests a field sobriety test, listen carefully and follow the instructions provided. You’ll typically be asked to perform tasks like walking in a straight line or standing on one leg. Important tips to keep in mind include:
- Remove Glasses: If asked, take off your glasses for the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test.
- Wait for Instructions: Only begin the tasks when the officer tells you to start; starting early may be interpreted as impairment.
- Request Clarification: If you don’t hear or understand the instructions, ask the officer to repeat them.
- Avoid Incriminating Yourself
It’s natural to want to explain your situation to the officers, but doing so can lead to unintentional admissions that may harm your defense. Instead, politely respond with:
- “I would like to have a lawyer present before I answer any questions.”
- “I prefer not to answer any questions at this time.”
Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid saying anything that could be used against you in court.
- Wait to Sober Up
After your DUI arrest, law enforcement may take several actions, such as issuing a summons for your court hearing or taking you to a detox facility. Understand that you will not be released until a breath sample confirms your sobriety. If booked at a county detention facility, you will need to post bond for release.
The Most Important Step: Contact a DUI Attorney
The single most crucial step to take after being arrested for DUI in Colorado is to contact a Top-Rated DUI attorney immediately. An experienced DUI lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Here’s how a skilled DUI attorney can assist you:
- Representation Throughout the Criminal Court Process
Many individuals facing DUI charges lack familiarity with the Colorado court system. An experienced DUI lawyer can provide invaluable guidance, representing you in court and communicating effectively with legal officials on your behalf.
- Challenge Your License Suspension
Losing your driver’s license can pose significant challenges. A DUI attorney can formally challenge your license suspension before your arraignment, increasing your chances of retaining your driving privileges.
- Preparation for Your Court Date
From filing necessary paperwork to ensuring you present yourself appropriately in court, an attorney can help you prepare for your court appearance, increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.
- Identify Weaknesses in the Case Against You
An experienced DUI lawyer can uncover inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as questioning the validity of your field sobriety test or the legality of your traffic stop.
- Guide You on Plea Deals
Sometimes, accepting a plea deal may be more beneficial than going to trial. A knowledgeable DUI attorney will negotiate the best deal on your behalf and advise you on whether to accept it based on your circumstances.
Conclusion
After a DUI arrest in Colorado, the steps you take can significantly impact your case’s outcome. By following these guidelines and, most importantly, securing the representation of an experienced DUI attorney, you can better navigate the complexities of your situation. Your attorney will act as your advocate, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you are making informed decisions throughout the legal process. Contact us today for a FREE consultation.
Learn More about DUI Charges in Colorado:
Five DUI Consequences You Need to Know About
Underage DUI in Colorado: What Are the Penalties?
Will My Employer Be Notified of My DUI in Colorado?
DUI Defense: 20 Ways To Beat A DUI in Colorado (As Told By A DUI Lawyer)
Author Bio
Alexis Austin Litle is the CEO and Managing Partner of Right Law Group, a criminal defense law firm she founded in 2018, with convenient locations in Colorado Springs, Castle Rock and Highlands Ranch. With almost a decade of experience in criminal defense, she has zealously represented clients in a wide range of legal matters, including DUIs, misdemeanors, felonies, domestic violence, and other criminal charges.
Alexis received her Juris Doctor from the University of Denver — Sturm College of Law and is a member of the Colorado Bar Association. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including being named among the “Top 40 Under 40” in 2018 by The National Trial Lawyers and featured in Authority Magazine’s “Top Lawyers” series.
