DUI Defense

What DUI defense covers

In Colorado, alcohol- and drug-impaired driving offenses include DUI (driving under the influence, generally BAC ≥ 0.08), DWAI (driving while ability impaired, BAC 0.05–0.079 or drugs), DUI-per-se, DUI-drugs (including marijuana), underage drinking and driving, and CDL DUI. Every DUI arrest creates two proceedings: a criminal case and a separate Colorado DMV Express Consent hearing.

When to hire a DUI attorney — and the 7-day deadline

Immediately. You have only 7 days from the date of arrest to request a DMV Express Consent hearing to challenge your license revocation. Miss the deadline and your license is automatically revoked. A qualified DUI lawyer will file that request the day you hire them.

What to look for in a Denver DUI attorney

• DUI-only or DUI-primary practice. The science (breath, blood, field sobriety) is technical enough that specialists win more often.
• NHTSA field-sobriety certification or equivalent training. The best DUI lawyers are trained to administer the tests themselves.
• Experience with the specific machine. Colorado uses the Intoxilyzer 9000; know that your lawyer has challenged it.
• DMV hearing experience — a separate skill from criminal court.
• Familiarity with Denver County Court judges and city attorneys.

Typical costs

• First-offense DUI, plea: $3,500 – $6,000 flat fee.
• First-offense DUI, trial: $6,000 – $12,000.
• Second-offense DUI: $6,500 – $15,000.
• Third or felony DUI (Colorado's fourth DUI is a class 4 felony): $12,000 – $35,000+.
• DMV Express Consent hearing add-on: $750 – $2,500 if billed separately.

Beyond attorney fees, expect court costs, alcohol classes, useful public service, probation fees, an ignition interlock device, and increased insurance premiums. Total real cost of a first Colorado DUI is commonly $10,000 – $15,000 over two years.