Felony DUI in Colorado

What constitutes a Felony DUI in our state, and how is it different from a misdemeanor DUI in Colorado?

A Felony DUI in Colorado is a third or more Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offense within 7 years, or a DUI offense where a person was seriously injured or killed as a result of the driver’s intoxication. It is different from a misdemeanor DUI in Colorado because it is a more serious criminal charge that carries longer sentences and higher fines than a misdemeanor DUI. A felony DUI is also considered a Class 4 Felony, which carries up to 6 years in prison and fines up to $500,000. If convicted of a felony DUI, the person may also be subject to additional penalties such as driver’s license suspension, ignition interlock device installation, alcohol and drug treatment programs, probation, community service and more.

Are there specific criteria or aggravating factors that elevate a DUI to a felony in Colorado?

Yes. A DUI charge can be elevated to a felony charge if the accused has three prior DUI convictions within seven years or if the accused has been convicted of a felony DUI for a prior offense. Other aggravating factors that can lead to a felony DUI conviction include if the accused caused serious bodily harm or death, was driving on a suspended license, or had a minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense.

How many prior DUI convictions are necessary for a DUI to be considered a felony in Colorado?

In Colorado, a DUI is considered a felony if the person has three or more prior DUI convictions within the last seven years.

What are some common aggravating factors that can lead to a Felony DUI charge in Colorado?

1. Driving with a suspended license or revoked license.
2. Driving with a prior DUI conviction within the past 10 years.
3. Driving with a minor in the car.
4. Excessive speed or reckless driving.
5. Refusing to submit to a chemical test at the time of arrest.
6. Causing an accident that results in serious bodily injury or death.
7. Driving under the influence of drugs or having an excessive BAC (blood alcohol content) of .15 or higher.

What are the potential penalties and consequences of a Felony DUI conviction in Colorado?

The potential penalties and consequences of a Felony DUI conviction in Colorado vary depending on the specifics of the case. Generally speaking, felony convictions can result in a prison sentence of up to six years, a fine of up to $500,000, loss of driving privileges, and the possibility of other penalties such as community service or substance abuse treatment programs. Additionally, a felony DUI conviction can have a long-term impact on one’s life, as it will show up on background checks and may make it difficult to get certain jobs or housing.

Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for Felony DUI convictions in Colorado?

Yes, a mandatory minimum sentence of five days in jail is required for conviction of a felony DUI in Colorado. Additionally, the convicted individual may face up to six years in prison.

How do prior DUI convictions from other states impact Felony DUI charges in Colorado?

Prior DUI convictions from other states may be used as aggravating factors in Colorado felony DUI cases. Under Colorado law, a person can be charged with felony DUI if they have been convicted of DUI three or more times within seven years of the current offense. If the prior conviction was from another state, it may still be used to establish the necessary number of convictions for a felony charge.

Can a Felony DUI result from DUI-related accidents causing injury or death in Colorado?

Yes, a felony DUI can result from DUI-related accidents causing injury or death in Colorado. Colorado law provides for enhanced penalties for individuals who cause bodily injury or death while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Depending on the specific circumstances, a felony DUI for causing injury or death can result in up to 24 years in prison.

Are there distinctions in penalties between Felony DUI and DUI involving drugs in Colorado?

Yes. A Felony DUI in Colorado is punishable by up to six years in prison and fines up to $500,000. A DUI involving drugs is punishable by up to two years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Additionally, an offender convicted of a Felony DUI may have their license revoked for up to five years, while a DUI involving drugs will result in an automatic suspension of the license for one year.

Do commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders face unique consequences for Felony DUI in Colorado?

Yes, commercial driver’s license holders in Colorado face unique consequences for Felony DUI. In addition to the standard penalties, such as jail time and fines, CDL holders also face a mandatory revocation of their license for at least one year. This means that they cannot operate any commercial vehicles for any purpose during the suspension period. Additionally, a CDL holder convicted of a felony DUI will be permanently disqualified from holding a commercial driver’s license in the future.

What is the role of ignition interlock devices (IIDs) in Felony DUI cases in Colorado?

In Colorado, an ignition interlock device (IID) is an approved breath alcohol device installed in a vehicle that requires the driver to blow a sample of his or her breath into it in order to start the vehicle. An IID is required for all felony DUI convictions in Colorado. When an IID is installed, the driver must provide a breath sample in order for the vehicle to start. The IID will measure the driver’s breath alcohol content and if it is above the legal limit, the vehicle will not start. The IID also requires random rolling tests during operation of the vehicle, and if a rolling test results in an alcohol content above the legal limit, the vehicle will shut down. An IID may be required for up to two years, depending on the severity of the DUI offense and the judge’s ruling.

Is there a possibility for plea bargains or reduced charges in Felony DUI cases in Colorado?

Yes, plea bargains or reduced charges in felony DUI cases are possible in Colorado. However, it is important to understand that the outcome of any criminal case is highly dependent on the individual facts of the case and the ability of the defense attorney to negotiate a plea agreement with the District Attorney.

Can individuals with Felony DUI convictions regain their driving privileges in Colorado?

Yes, individuals with felony DUI convictions can regain their driving privileges in Colorado. However, the individual must have satisfied all the requirements of their sentence, including any court ordered supervision, and complete all necessary paperwork to apply for a new license. The individual may also need to provide proof of insurance, pay any applicable fees, and pass a written exam and road test.

How does a Felony DUI affect employment opportunities and background checks in Colorado?

A felony DUI conviction can have a significant impact on an individual’s employment opportunities and background checks in Colorado. A felony DUI will be visible to potential employers and can be an impediment to being hired. Employers may have policies that exclude individuals with criminal records from being eligible for certain positions. Additionally, many employers may view a felony DUI as a sign of irresponsible behavior and may choose to not hire an applicant due to this conviction. It is also important to note that the conviction will appear on an individual’s criminal record and will be visible to potential employers during a background check.

Are there diversion programs or rehabilitation options for Felony DUI offenders in Colorado?

Yes, there are diversion programs and rehabilitation options for felony DUI offenders in Colorado. These options may vary depending on the county and the specific case. Some of the common diversion programs include pretrial supervision, house arrest/electronic monitoring, alcohol education classes, community service, and counseling. Depending on the severity of the offense, some higher-level felony DUI offenders may be eligible for a treatment-based program called Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP). In these cases, the offender would receive regular drug and alcohol testing along with intensive probation supervision, court-ordered counseling, and/or other treatment programs. Additionally, some counties may offer rehabilitation programs that provide substance abuse treatment and education.

What rights and legal options do individuals charged with Felony DUI have in Colorado?

Individuals charged with a felony DUI in Colorado have the same rights as any other defendant in a criminal case. These rights include:

1. The right to an attorney. The accused can have their own attorney or be appointed one by the court if they cannot afford one.

2. The right to remain silent and not answer any questions posed by the police or other law enforcement officers.

3. The right to a jury trial if the accused chooses to take their case to court.

4. The right to confront witnesses and challenge evidence being presented against them.

5. The right to appeal any conviction or sentence imposed by the court.

6. The right to access court records and documents related to their case.

7. The right to challenge the validity of any search or seizure conducted by law enforcement without a valid warrant or probable cause.

In addition, individuals facing a felony DUI charge have certain legal options available to them, such as plea bargaining or seeking a pretrial diversion program in lieu of a trial.

Can a Felony DUI conviction impact child custody and visitation rights in Colorado?

Yes, a felony DUI conviction can have an impact on child custody and visitation rights in Colorado. Although the specifics of each individual case will vary, a felony DUI conviction could result in the affected parent receiving less parenting time or even limited access to the child. Additionally, the court may consider the conviction and any negative behaviors associated with it when making decisions regarding child custody and visitation rights.

Is there a statute of limitations for prosecuting Felony DUI cases in Colorado?

Yes, there is a statute of limitations for prosecuting felony DUI cases in Colorado. The statute of limitations for such cases is three years from the date of the offense.

How does our state handle out-of-state DUI convictions in relation to Felony DUI charges in Colorado?

Any DUI conviction from another state that would be considered a felony in Colorado is treated as a felony conviction in Colorado. This means that the person will face the same penalties as if they had been convicted of a felony DUI charge in Colorado. Depending on the severity of the out-of-state conviction, the Colorado felony DUI penalties could include jail time, fines, license suspension, and/or community service.

What resources or organizations provide support and guidance for individuals facing Felony DUI charges in Colorado?

1. Colorado Department of Transportation: The Colorado Department of Transportation offers information, resources, and support to individuals facing felony DUI charges in Colorado. This includes information on legal rights and requirements, as well as links to local organizations that can provide assistance and support.

2. Colorado DUI Lawyer: Colorado DUI Lawyer provides legal advice and representation to individuals facing felony DUI charges. They provide guidance and advocacy throughout the legal process.

3. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): MADD is a national organization dedicated to ending drunk driving and supporting victims of drunk driving crashes. MADD offers a wide range of resources for individuals facing felony DUI charges in Colorado, including information on the legal process, support groups, and more.

4. Colorado Legal Services: Colorado Legal Services provides free legal advice and representation to low-income individuals. They can provide assistance with understanding the legal process and the potential consequences of a conviction.