Most people, especially first-time offenders, often ask the question, “Is a DUI in Colorado a felony?” or, “Is a DUI a misdemeanor in Colorado?” The answer to that depends on whether you have any prior DUI or DWAI convictions, either in Colorado or any other states. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Misdemeanor DUI
Colorado doesn’t have a lookback period. This means that regardless if the first, second, or third offense occurred 20 years ago, the court may still treat them as prior violations.
Additionally, any prior offenses regardless of where they occurred will be considered by the Colorado courts in determining whether the new DUI meets the threshold for a felony allegation.
So, a DUI will be charged as a misdemeanor offense when a.) the accused has never been charged with a DUI case before, b.) the offender has no prior DUI offense in any state or c.) the new case is NOT the offender’s fourth DUI conviction.
Felony DUI
For those wondering, “Is a DUI a felony in Colorado?” the answer to that would be yes if the offender is now facing their fourth conviction. Moreover, if you are charged with driving under the influence and the police find probable cause that you caused serious bodily injury to another, you may also be charged with a felony offense. Accused offenders will face harsher penalties under a felony DUI including the possibility of prison time.
Turn to Maher & Maher Law, PC
Regardless if you are facing a misdemeanor or felony DUI, both can lead to life-altering consequences upon conviction. So, it is a must to act quickly and hire a trusted DUI defense attorney in Colorado.
For more inquiries or a concrete answer to the questions about your particular DUI case or situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to Maher & Maher Law, PC. We have years of experience handling various DUI cases.
Get a free consultation when you reach out to us through our hotline at (719) 301-7500. You may also send us an email at info@maherandmaherlaw.com. If you wish to see us in person, our law firm is located at 12295 Oracle Blvd Ste. 300, Colorado Springs, CO 80921.
