While drinking and driving laws in Colorado are complicated, driving under the influence or with a certain blood alcohol level will definitely get you in deep trouble. A very common penalty is the loss of your driver’s license for a period of time. That is always a big hit to your life and livelihood, but your situation is not hopeless.
An aggressive DUI attorney can help you avoid the loss of your license, but what if you have already lost your license? You have a few options, but consulting with someone in the know before your license is suspended or revoked is always the best first step.
How Long Will I Lose My License?
For a first offense in Colorado, you can lose your license for months. For second and future offenses, that amount increases. It is possible to have your license permanently revoked if this is a common occurrence for you, and ultimately, it is up to the judge to decide.
When you are suspected of driving under the influence, you lose your license immediately if you refuse a breathalyzer or blood test. You also immediately lose it if you fail the breathalyzer test, but if you choose a blood test, you will retain your license until the test results come in.
Even if you do lose your license, you have the right to request a hearing and reinstate your driver’s license. This will let you argue for the ability to drive, should you have a legitimate reason.
Obtaining A Hardship License
A hardship license is essentially a replacement driver’s license issued while your license is revoked for a DUI. It allows you to still drive where necessary, with some serious limitations. Obtaining one is not difficult if you have a serious case for why you need one.
Hardship licenses are granted to those who have a material need to drive somewhere each day, such as for work, for education, or for medical reasons. You are also more likely to receive one if you have a reason that public transportation is not viable for you.
It is important to remember that these are not the same as a regular license. You are meant to only drive when and where absolutely necessary. They are heavily scrutinized, and you may even have to install an ignition interlock device on your car, which keeps it from cranking unless you blow into it to prove you are not under the influence.
Can I Avoid Losing My License?
Colorado has something called a “wet reckless” plea. This is a plea deal that lets you plead guilty to reckless driving, which is a lesser crime with an easier penalty. The DUI stays off your record, though you will have to take alcohol education classes.
Most notably, reckless driving does not usually result in the loss of your license. This is not always an option, and for repeat offenses, it will be very difficult to avoid the loss of your license. A dedicated criminal defense attorney will be able to explain your options and work with you to create a powerful defense strategy.
Speak With a DUI Attorney Today
If you have been arrested or charged with a DUI, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Even if your license has already been revoked, they can help you through a hearing that could at least partially return your ability to drive.
Troxell Law is a trusted, experienced Colorado criminal defense law firm. Reach out to them with any questions you may have by calling or filling out our online contact form.