What Happens If I Get Multiple DUI Convictions In Colorado?

Multiple DUI Convictions In Colorado

First, let’s just say that getting a DUI conviction in Colorado is not a good thing. Getting multiple DUI convictions is worse – way worse. How much worse? Let’s take a look and see what multiple DUI convictions in Colorado will bring in penalties.

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In Colorado, the penalties for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) become increasingly severe with each subsequent conviction, reflecting the state’s commitment to road safety and the deterrence of repeat offenses. The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in Colorado is 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over, and it’s important to note that the state differentiates between DUI, which involves a BAC of 0.08% or higher, and Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI), which occurs when the BAC is between 0.05% and 0.079%.

First DUI Conviction

For a first-time DUI offense in Colorado, the penalties are significant and designed to discourage future violations. They typically include:

• Jail time: 5 days to 1 year. Jail time may be waived or reduced if the offender completes a court-ordered alcohol education program and treatment.
• Fine: $600 to $1,000.
• Community service: 48 to 96 hours.
• Probation: Up to 2 years.
• License suspension: 9 months.
• Mandatory alcohol education and treatment program.
• An ignition interlock device may be required for up to 8 months after license reinstatement.

Second DUI Conviction

The consequences for a second DUI conviction escalate to emphasize the seriousness of repeated offenses:

• Jail time: 10 days to 1 year. The minimum 10-day jail term is mandatory and cannot be suspended.
• Fine: $600 to $1,500.
• Community service: 48 to 120 hours.
• Probation: 2 to 4 years.
• License suspension: 1 year.
• Mandatory alcohol education and treatment.
• An ignition interlock device must be installed for at least 2 years.

Third DUI Conviction

A third DUI conviction underscores the repeated disregard for the law and public safety, with penalties designed to be even more punitive:

• Jail time: 60 days to 1 year. The minimum 60-day jail term is mandatory and cannot be suspended.
• Fine: $600 to $1,500.
• Community service: 48 to 120 hours.
• Probation: 2 to 4 years.
• License revocation: 2 years.
• Mandatory alcohol education and treatment.
• An ignition interlock device must be installed for at least 2 years.

Subsequent DUI Convictions

For fourth and subsequent DUI offenses, which Colorado considers felonies, penalties are more severe:

• Jail time: 2 to 6 years in a Colorado state prison, depending on the circumstances, with a mandatory 3-year parole period.
• Fine: $2,000 to $500,000.
• Community service: Varies, typically at least 48 hours.
• License revocation: Indefinite, with the possibility of reinstatement after several years contingent upon various factors, including behavior and completion of treatment programs.
• Long-term or lifetime use of an ignition interlock device.

Additional Considerations For Multiple DUI Convictions

Penalties can be further enhanced based on other factors such as extremely high BAC levels, the presence of minors in the vehicle, accidents causing injury or death, and other aggravating circumstances. Repeat offenders may also face increased scrutiny, vehicle confiscation, or denial of insurance.

Colorado’s approach to DUI emphasizes not only punishment but also rehabilitation and the prevention of future offenses. The mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices and the requirement for alcohol education and treatment programs reflect this dual focus on deterrence and correction.

As you can see from above, it’s a really bad idea to get multiple DUI convictions in Colorado. Help is available in multiple ways – from alcohol programs, to counseling to great legal help to keep from getting DUI convictions.

If you find yourself in a tough spot with another DUI – give me a call. I can help you.

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