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What is the Cost of a DUI in Colorado?

March 1, 2023

Driving under the influence (DUI) is illegal in all 50 states. In Colorado, the costs associated with a DUI can be significant, including financial penalties, jail time, and other consequences. Understanding these potential costs can help keep you from making a costly mistake.

Legal Penalties

The legal penalties for a DUI in Colorado are based on the number of offenses and any aggravating factors that may be present. A first-time offense typically results in a fine of up to $1,000 plus court fees, license suspension for nine months, 24 to 48 hours in jail or 48 to 96 hours of community service, and an alcohol education course. For subsequent offenses within seven years of the first conviction, the penalty increases significantly. A third DUI within seven years carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 60 days in jail plus fines and license suspension for two years.

Financial Costs

In addition to legal penalties, there are also financial costs associated with a DUI conviction in Colorado. These costs include court fees, fines, attorney’s fees, increased insurance premiums and ignition interlock device installation fees (if required). The total cost can exceed $10,000 when all expenses are taken into account. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights if you are charged with a DUI and consider seeking legal help early on.

Non-Financial Costs

The non-financial costs of being convicted of a DUI can be even more significant than the financial ones. Depending on your occupation or field of study, having a criminal record could make it difficult or impossible to get certain jobs or further your education. Additionally, having an arrest record could impact other areas of your life such as child custody agreements or travel visas. Furthermore, if someone is injured or killed as result of drinking and driving then you could face felony charges which carry even more severe consequences including prison time.

Colorado takes DUIs very seriously and imposes strict penalties for those who choose to drive under the influence. It is important for Colorado residents to understand these potential costs before getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol so they can make informed decisions about their safety—and that of others—on the roadways. If you have been charged with a DUI in Colorado it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help protect your rights throughout the legal process so that you do not suffer needlessly from both legal and financial consequences due to one mistake made while intoxicated behind the wheel.

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Understanding the Consequences of a DUI

February 12, 2023

Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is illegal in all 50 states and can lead to serious legal repercussions. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, understanding what happens after arrest is critical. Here, we break down the potential consequences of a DUI and how to get help for your case.

Penalties for a DUI Determined by State Law

The penalties for driving under the influence vary depending on where you live and whether this is your first offense or not. Generally, first-time offenders can expect to face fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. Subsequent offenses may result in even more severe punishments such as longer license suspensions and higher fines.

In addition to state law penalties, there are other implications that come with a DUI charge. For example, insurance companies may increase your rates or drop you altogether after being convicted of a DUI. You may also be required to pay restitution if your actions caused any damage or injury to another person or property when driving under the influence.

Getting Help After a DUI Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, it’s important to seek legal advice right away. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and work towards getting your charges reduced or dropped altogether. Your attorney will understand the nuances of local laws and have experience defending clients against DUIs in court. Additionally, they can help guide you through the process of restoring your license after it has been suspended due to a conviction.

A DUI charge carries with it both criminal and financial consequences that could affect you for years to come if not handled properly. If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, it’s important that you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible who can work towards getting your charges reduced or dropped altogether. Doing so will ensure that potential penalties are minimized while helping protect your rights throughout this difficult process.

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How to Hire the Best Defense Attorney in Denver

November 14, 2022

Having the finest criminal defense attorney on your side is crucial if you are facing criminal accusations. Hiring a skilled defense attorney in Denver might be the difference between years in jail and freedom. What qualities do you need to be on the lookout for in a criminal defense attorney? How do you know that you hired the best lawyer for your situation?

Finding the ideal attorney may seem difficult; there are so many defense attorneys available that it can feel nearly impossible to find one who meets your unique requirements. We hope to make choosing a criminal defense attorney in Denver, Colorado, easier for you with the following tips.

Hiring a defense attorney in Denver, CO, is essential for those facing criminal charges. Some people do not hire a qualified defense attorney due to the possible fees involved. However, the costs associated with hiring a defense attorney are significantly lower than the life-altering costs after a conviction. Let us dive into several tips for hiring the best defense attorney in Denver for you. We will also spotlight how Timothy Kelly & Associates defend clients when hired as a criminal defense attorney in Denver, Colorado.

Tips for Hiring the Best Defense Attorney in Denver, Colorado, for Your Criminal Defense Charge

Hire an Experienced Law Firm

When looking for a criminal defense attorney in Denver, ensure you hire a law firm with knowledge and experience. A criminal defense lawyer with several years of expertise will have a better success percentage than a lawyer with little to no experience. Skilled lawyers typically charge higher rates; many say it is well worth the investment. A well-versed defense attorney in Denver is vital if you face significant accusations.

Most private criminal defense lawyers have prior experience as either public defenders or prosecutors, providing them exposure to a wide range of criminal matters. Before choosing to employ a lawyer, learning more about their history is essential. You should not hire a defense attorney if they provide evasive answers or decline to reveal their specific experience; instead, start looking for another one.

Timothy Kelly & Associates have over 30 years of experience as criminal defense attorneys in Denver, Colorado. Over the years, we have encountered extraordinary situations, and that knowledge comes to defend your case.

A Thorough Understanding of the Judicial System

A skilled criminal defense attorney in Denver will clearly understand the local, state, and federal judicial systems. It can be complex, even for those who deal with the legal system daily. Still, a skilled defense attorney is familiar with its inner workings and can assist you through it. Ask the potential defense attorney to explain how the process will go step by step and determine if it is right for you.

Timothy Kelly & Associates have shown our expertise by repeatedly understanding the Denver, Colorado, judicial system over the years. We ensure all of your options are explored and will carefully guide you through your criminal defense.

Specialized Attorney in Criminal Defense

Several firms provide legal defense services. However, defense services do not indicate that they are criminal defense experts. Working with a public defender with more expertise in your situation may cost less and is wiser than hiring a private attorney with less criminal law experience. Hiring an experienced defense attorney in Denver who specializes in similar cases is best.

Inquire about the defense attorney’s background in criminal defense at your initial consultation. You may want to ask them about the results of cases they defended that were comparable to yours. These questions can help you determine their areas of expertise in terms of criminal cases as well as their track record of success in circumstances that are comparable to your own.

All lawyers must have completed the state bar exam and law school to practice in their respective jurisdictions, although various lawyers have different specializations. An accomplished criminal defense attorney in Denver specializes in instances involving criminal accusations. The goal is to hire a defense attorney in Denver who has successfully defended cases similar to yours.

With a focus on DUI as a criminal defense attorney in Denver since 1986, Timothy Kelly & Associates has the experience to defend your criminal traffic case.

Local Court Relationships

Defense attorneys in Denver and prosecution attorneys start to get along after spending a lot of time together in the legal profession. Even while it could seem strange to get along well with an enemy, both sides are aware that when individuals are acquainted, everything goes more smoothly. They might be able to work out a more favorable plea agreement or a cheaper bond, thanks to their mutual respect and trust.

Networking is essential in the legal profession, as in many others. It would be advantageous for you to choose a defense attorney in Denver who has expertise working with the local courts. When selecting a defense counsel, consumers frequently glance through this information. However, having friends and connections will go a long way in helping you win your case.

Each judge has a style of addressing situations, and each court has a somewhat distinct procedure. When formulating a plan to win your case, it will help to have a defense lawyer knowledgeable about these procedures. Defense attorneys at Timothy Kelly & Associates have carefully cultivated respected, professional relationships with many colleagues.

Responsiveness and Law Enforcement Conduct Assessment

Time is of the essence when you are under investigation for a crime. It is ideal if you have a lawyer ready to begin working on your case immediately. A proactive defense attorney in Denver, like Timothy Kelly & Associates, will ensure that your case is handled carefully and that no important aspects are overlooked. We will contact you with inquiries to ensure all case details are precise. You can be confident your case is being handled properly if you have a proactive attorney that stays in touch with you throughout the criminal procedure.

Your attorney should always be available during the stressful and perplexing criminal proceedings. Your defense attorney’s response time should also be rapid when you contact them. An effective defense attorney will be sympathetic and available for you as required. All clients at Timothy Kelly & Associates are treated as family. You should note how quickly a legal firm responds to your call and whether they ask you to leave a message. Did you receive a response promptly if you had to leave a message, or did you wait a long time to hear anything? Hiring a defense attorney in Denver you trust is crucial to facing criminal charges with your best defense.

The typical individual may not fully understand the legal restrictions on what police enforcement may do while gathering evidence in a criminal case by watching TV, reading the news, or browsing Facebook. The complexities of the correct processes are something that excellent criminal defense attorneys in Denver spend years understanding, as well as the blind spots and loopholes in the system. A defense attorney may investigate how the police may have violated the rights of the accused since they are aware of what police officers are permitted to do during an investigation. If the acquisition of the evidence is found to be improper, your defense attorney may be able to get it excluded from your case, which frequently results in dismissals.

Upfront about Legal Fees and Charges

An honest criminal defense attorney will be open and honest about their costs. A formal contract outlining the conditions you agree to before hiring a defense attorney in Denver is always recommended. By doing this, you may be confident the defense lawyer will only charge you and provide you with legal services after accepting their offer.

A legal company providing you with a low-cost estimate raises two red flags. The defense lawyer you are interviewing could have a poor reputation, or they may charge you a ton of extra money in hidden fees down the road. You should avoid hiring law firms with low prices since the outcomes in both circumstances are bad for you, the defendant. Conversely, it would help if you were wary of businesses that charge exorbitant costs. Consider if you are getting your money’s worth by choosing Timothy Kelly & Associates as your defense attorney in Denver.

Though it goes against common sense, hiring a more costly attorney nearly always saves you money. An experienced, seasoned defense attorney in Denver can assist you in getting the finest sentence feasible for your situation, which can help you maintain your work or avoid losing your professional license. How much money would you lose over how many months searching for a new job with a pending criminal charge if you lost your job tomorrow? How many years of potential income would be lost if you lost your professional license? Even if you are not fired, missing employment because of incarceration or lengthy legal proceedings can burden your finances.

Defense Attorney Denver, Colorado

Timothy Kelly & Associates have defended nearly one thousand criminal cases. We put the same care, attention to detail, and intensity in each case as if you were our favorite family member. With over 30 years of experience, hiring Timothy Kelly & Associates as your defense attorney in Denver, Colorado, gives your defense an excellent starting place. Reach out to learn more about your case today.

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Frequently Asked Questions when Hiring a DUI Lawyer in Denver, CO

An arrest for DUI, Driving Under the Influence, can be distressing. It is essential to remain calm in the moment in order to handle the situation as best you can. Employing the correct DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado, is an efficient strategy to improve your case and help you move forward with your life.

Driving under the influence is a severe criminal offense that can bring lifelong consequences. You may acquire a criminal record, which can sometimes affect your workplace employment. Hiring a local DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado, is a necessity for the highest chances of success at getting charges dropped or dismissed quickly in court. Even a first-time offender greatly benefits from hiring a DUI lawyer.

A clean driving record is necessary for several reasons in life, including insurance and professional opportunities. DUI charges are unlike regular traffic tickets that you may pay and ignore or dismiss by attending a driving school. If you are guilty of driving while under the influence, it could have significant consequences for your life and your legal situation.

No matter the situation you are in or the case being made against you, you must put in the necessary effort to fight for a clear record. Time is urgent when fighting a driving under the influence case since your life and future are on the line.

We will dive into people’s most common questions when hiring a DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado. All clients at Timothy Kelly & Associates are treated like a member of the family. We aim to provide thoughtful, caring, and thorough legal representation throughout the Denver metro area.

What is the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI?

Driving under the influence is commonly referred to as a DUI. Driving while intoxicated (some say driving while impaired) is referred to as a DWI. A DUI accusation might indicate that the motorist was using drugs or alcohol while behind the wheel. It is crucial to remember that the drugs do not necessarily have to be illegal. A DUI charge may also occur when taking prescription or over-the-counter medications if the user becomes intoxicated due to taking them.

The state where the event happened and the established blood alcohol content, or BAC, levels at the time of the incident ultimately determine whether officers charge you with a DUI or DWI. Cases involving DUI and DWI differ from state to state. In reality, several states prosecute someone driving while intoxicated using wholly different terms. To guarantee that you always drive within legal limits, you should know the driving rules in any city you visit or live in. You can only be legally charged with a DUI or DWI if a law officer can demonstrate that you were too intoxicated to drive.

Timothy Kelly & Associates are experienced and respected DUI lawyers in Denver, Colorado. If you are looking for effective legal representation for criminal defense in Denver, call our number at any time and speak with a DUI lawyer in Denver.

What are DUI’s Criminal Consequences?

A guilty DUI charge may result in a number of criminal penalties, such as prison time, probation, community service, fines, or ignition interlock devices.

Prison Time: There are no rules on how little time you can spend in prison for a first-time DUI charge in Denver. Maximum prison sentences range from six months to five years. Sentencing depends on variables like your blood alcohol content, who was in your automobile, any sustained injuries or property damage, and how severe those injuries or damages were. All first-time DUI offenders expect to be placed on probation, perhaps in conjunction with a prison sentence.

Community Service: As a condition of probation, most first-time DUI offenders must do community service. In most states, mandatory community service requirements are 50 hours on average.

Fines: Your fines may fall within a wide range depending on the circumstances surrounding your DUI in Denver. Fine penalties range from $500 up to $12,000 or more. Hiring a DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado, can help you manage these fines.

Ignition Interlock Devices: If this is your first DUI offense and your BAC was less than 0.08%, this may not apply to your case. If your BAC was higher, a judge might require you to use the Ignition Interlock Device for at least six months. If you had a passenger under 18 years old in the automobile or were driving with a BAC of more than 0.15%, a minimum of six months with an ignition interlock device is often required.

Is it Worth Hiring a DUI Lawyer in Denver for a DUI?

Yes, hiring a lawyer is always worth it. You are not obligated to hire a DUI lawyer in Denver to manage your case. However, hiring a DUI lawyer in Denver, CO, protects you from blunders that could result in long-term ramifications with guilty DUI charges. If possible, you do not want a potential felony or misdemeanor to be permanently on your record. You need an experienced DUI lawyer on your side to help you discover the best solution to your case like Timothy Kelly & Associates.

A DUI lawyer in Denver, CO, can help you build a compelling defense for your case based on your unique circumstances. At Timothy Kelly & Associates, we have the experience and ability to identify any vulnerabilities that may expose you. We can give you the best remedies to mitigate any consequences. In addition, our DUI lawyer in Denver, CO, will answer all your inquiries. From legal requirements to future actions, we will ensure that every detail is accounted for along the road.

For example, a DUI case involves two distinct issues: the suspension of your driver’s license and your criminal prosecution. Both cases were filed at separate periods, calling for different, specific approaches. Ultimately, using an expert DUI lawyer in Denver ensures your rights are protected and you have the best possible defense for your case and your future.

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer in Denver, CO, Cost?

It is difficult to predict how much a DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado, will ultimately cost you. A DUI is a state-specific offense, meaning each state is free to impose any penalty it deems appropriate.

In most cases, a DUI case lasts six to twelve months. A DUI lawyer in Denver could charge around $1,900, with extra expenses totaling $5,000 to $8,000 for the entire process. Some of the more catastrophic situations might cost $12,000 or more. Accepting a plea deal can also impact the final cost. It is a fair assumption to budget about $10,000 for a driving under the influence charge.

Does DUI Leave You with a Criminal Record?

Like any other criminal conviction, your misdemeanor or felony conviction will appear on your criminal record. However, there are certain circumstances where you can attend programs or plead the charges down, allowing you to avoid having a lifelong criminal record. We can assist you in determining if any alternatives are accessible to you if you are charged with DUI in Denver. Timothy Kelly & Associates are ready to help you prepare your criminal defense for trial.

Are Other Costs Associated with a DUI?

Driving while intoxicated can be expensive. A DUI can have astronomical financial consequences even if you do not damage yourself or anybody else. First, your auto insurance premiums will significantly increase when you get your license back. If you can obtain auto insurance at all, the costs may be twice as much as you are accustomed to paying. Anticipate your insurance premiums to remain high for an average of three to five years, even if you drive perfectly following the DUI.

Many people arrested for a DUI have never dealt with the court system before. It is easy to be unaware of all the expenses of being detained. Budget for bail, legal representation, and the fine of the ticket. Bail is typically 10% of the bond amount, which might mean having to make a four-figure payment just to be released from custody while you await trial. Attorney fees could reach five figures for a DUI trial criminal defense.

Lastly, each time you miss work, it costs you money. Some employers may let you go if you acquire a DUI conviction. A DUI charge may also jeopardize the validity of your professional license. The licenses of truck drivers, nurses, attorneys, physicians, and teachers are all at stake if they are convicted of DUI. Future prospective employers can view the DUI charge with a straightforward background check, a standard recruiting procedure.

You might lose your career, reputation, and money if you decide to drive after drinking. You might lose your life as a result or injure someone else. Take the expenses into account before driving after drinking. Most likely, a cab home is less expensive.

DUI Lawyer in Denver, Colorado

If you need a DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado, contact Timothy Kelly & Associates. We have over 30 years of expertise defending DUI charges. Our experienced attorneys are just a phone call away. Protect your future and hire Timothy Kelly & Associates as your DUI lawyer in Denver, Colorado.

Send us an email:

tim@timkelly.net

Give us a call:

(303) 820-0840

Location :

600 17th Street, Suite 2800 South
Denver, Colorado 80202
United States