There’s no question that facing impending DUI charges is serious, especially in Colorado, which has some of the toughest DUI laws in all of the country.
A DUI conviction can have far-reaching consequences, including a disruption in your personal relationships, limited professional opportunities, and, of course, jail time.
This article answers the question, “How long does someone stay in jail for a DUI?” Though Colorado imposes mandatory jail time for a DUI conviction, there is the potential to avoid jail by arranging a sentencing alternative. Keep reading to learn more about jail time for a DUI in Colorado.
Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Colorado
Jail time is one of several penalties imposed for a DUI conviction. Further, the penalties increase for subsequent convictions.
Penalties for the First DUI
For a first-time DUI, the standard penalty is at least 5 days in jail, up to 1 year. In addition to jail time, you could face the following penalties:
- Fines ranging from $600 to $1,000
- Court costs
- License suspension (up to 9 months)
- The requirement to perform 48 to 96 hours of public community service
- Potential to install an ignition interlock device (known as an IID) in your vehicle for up to 8 months
Penalties for the Second DUI
A second DUI is a much more serious offense, so it logically has harsher penalties:
- Jail time of at least 10 days, up to 1 year
- Up to $1,500 in fines
- Court costs
- A one-year license suspension
- Up to 120 hours of public community service
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for up to 5 years
Penalties for the Third DUI
And finally, the penalties for a third DUI are even more serious, including:
- Jail time of at least 60 days, up to 1 year
- Up to $1,500 in fines
- Indefinite license suspension with the ability to apply for reinstatement after 2 years
- Up to 120 hours of public community service
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for up to 5 years (assuming your license has been reinstated)
Alternatives to Jail Time
A DUI conviction doesn’t always result in jail time. Depending on the circumstances of your drunk driving arrest and your attorney’s ability to present your case, you may be able to avoid jail and be subject to probation.
Probation is sometimes a viable option if this is your first DUI offense, though an extended period of probation may be an option as well. First-time offenders offered probation can expect the probationary period to last between six months and two years, while second-time offenders may be subject to probation that lasts up to four years.
While probation allows you to avoid jail time, it’s not necessarily a free ride. You still face penalties, and the court may impose additional requirements that you must comply with under the terms of your probation, such as:
- Fines
- Court costs
- Restitution
- Driver’s license suspension
- Required meetings with your probation officer
- Enrollment in a drug or alcohol program
- Drug or alcohol testing
Further, you will be required to comply with all of the laws – in other words, law firms will advise you to keep your nose clean and stay out of trouble for the duration of your probation. Failure to comply with the terms of your probation can result in additional penalties, including jail time.
Contact an Experienced DUI Attorney
Don’t let DUI charges derail your life. Despite the minimum jail time imposed by law of 5 days, you may have options to avoid going to jail. Call Grant & Associates Law Firm at 970-356-5666 or contact us online to discuss the details of your case.