June 2018

What if a phone call could save you thousands of dollars and even possible jail time?

For someone who has been charged with a DUI, this is a very real possibility. And if you’ve been charged, it’s important to consider calling a lawyer.

To understand why, it’s important to understand what does a DUI lawyer do.

What Does a DUI Lawyer Do

The majority of DUI cases do not involve a DUI lawyer. So, why should you hire a DUI lawyer in Pueblo, Colorado?

First, the lawyer understands the law in your area better than you. He can make sure you don’t say anything incriminating and can offer advice based on the specific judge you are now facing.

The lawyer can help also negotiate with prosecutors, which is crucial in getting a DUI charge dropped to a more minor charge. And this lawyer may be able to help get your record expunged if you are found guilty.

Now that you know what a DUI lawyer can do, read on to discover a few cases where he can be particularly useful.

Helpful for Repeat Offenders

You may not need a lawyer if this is your first offense. So long as no one was injured, you will likely face nothing worse than a fine and the loss of your license.

However, repeat DUI offenders are likelier to get the book thrown at them. The fine will be more significant, and you may be facing jail time. If this isn’t your first offense, it’s critical to hire a lawyer.

If It Involves Injuries

Most of the time, no one is hurt in cases of a DUI. However, if someone was hurt or killed, it is imperative that you hire a criminal defense DUI lawyer.

In such cases, you face the possibility of mandatory jail time. Additionally, you may face civil charges down the road which are separate from the DUI charges.

In this case, a good DUI lawyer may be able to reduce or eliminate your jail time. Furthermore, they can pave the road for any future legal defenses that may be necessary.

Good for Commercial Drivers

Most of our advice so far has centered on individual drivers and their personal vehicles. However, commercial drivers should consider hiring a DUI lawyer right away.

A conviction will mean the loss of your license and, therefore, the loss of your job. A DUI lawyer may be able to argue for your innocence, which can preserve your record and save your employment.

If You’re Innocent

You may think a DUI charge is straightforward. However, a lawyer can help argue for your innocence due to multiple factors.

If the police did not make a valid stop, for instance, or otherwise violated procedure, this can help your case. However, you need to hire a lawyer who intimately understands these procedures.

The Bottom Line

Now you know what does a DUI lawyer do. Your next question is most like, “where can I find the best one?”

That’s where we come in. At the Lucero Law Firm, we are more than lawyers: we are part of the community, and we’re proud to support you whenever you need legal representation.

DUI cases are one of our specialties. To see how we can help you, contact us today!

Do you know what to do after getting a DUI in Colorado?

Many people in this situation panic because they don’t know what they should do next. Keep reading to discover what happens next and exactly which steps you must take!

Arrest and Court

Unfortunately, the first thing that happens after getting a DUI is that you will be arrested and booked by the police. After that comes your day in court.

At this point, you will see the evidence they have against you (such as a failed breathalyzer test) and must plead innocent or guilty. If you feel you may have a case, you should definitely consider hiring a DUI lawyer to represent you.

Fines

Getting a DUI means paying for fines. That is true in every state, and Colorado is no exception.

Keep in mind that the exact amount of the fine can vary based on multiple factors. This includes the specific charges leveled against you and whether the incident involved any kind of property damage.

Loss of License

Another certain thing when it comes to getting a DUI in Colorado is the loss of your license. It is mandatory that your driving privileges are taken away while your case is being reviewed.

Do not be surprised if your license is taken away even if this is for a first-time offense. If you have either failed a breathalyzer test or refused to take one, then this may be grounds to immediately suspend your driving privileges.

Possible Jail or Probation

Even in the case of a first offense, you may have to spend some time in jail. And multiple offenders are likelier to receive longer jail times.

If you do not receive any jail time, you are still likely to receive probation. This means that you will be assigned a probation officer who will make sure you abide by any state-mandated requirements.

Possible DUI School

After your license is taken away, you are likely going to focus on getting back on the road. This almost certainly means that you will have to attend a DUI school.

The point of a DUI school is relatively straightforward. The state wants to ensure that you are not likely to drink and drive again, and the courses are designed to offer education and rehabilitation of such behaviors.

The exact cost of these programs can vary. Keep in mind that you will have to pay for the cost of any assigned DUI programs out of your own pocket.

Insurance Hike

There’s one more bit of bad news when it comes to getting a DUI in Colorado. Your insurance is almost certainly going to get hiked up.

With a DUI on your record, you may be required to get a specialized kind of insurance. If this happens, it means your rates could potentially double or even triple!

DUI in Colorado: The Bottom Line

You now know everything bad that can happen when you get a DUI in Colorado. However, the right lawyer can help protect you from much of this with a good defense!

You need the absolute best to defend you when the time comes. The Lucero Law Firm specializes in DUI cases. To see how we can transform your case, give us a call today!