DWI, DUI, and DWAI Attorneys in Ft Collins, CO
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Legal Defense Against DUI, DWI, or DWAI Charges
Are you in need of DUI and DWAI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO? Driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), and driving while ability impaired (DWAI) are serious offenses in Colorado and can have severe legal and personal consequences. If you have been charged with DUI, DWI, or DWAI, it is important to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
At the office of Mark Adams, Attorney at Law, our DWI, DUI, and DWAI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO have extensive experience defending clients against these types of charges. We understand the complexities of Colorado's DUI and DWAI laws and the potential consequences of a conviction, including fines, jail time, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and more. That's why we work tirelessly to protect our client’s rights and achieve the best possible outcome for their cases.
In Colorado, a person can be charged with DUI, DWI, or DWAI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is above the legal limit of 0.08%. However, even if a person's BAC is below the legal limit, they can still be charged with DUI, DWI, or DWAI if they are impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Our attorneys understand the science behind DUI and DWAI testing, and we will carefully review all aspects of your case to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case. We will also explore all possible legal defenses, such as challenging the validity of the breathalyzer test, questioning the legality of the traffic stop, or arguing that the officer did not have probable cause to make the arrest.
Choose the Top DUI and DWAI Attorneys Ft Collins, CO Has to Offer
As the DWI, DUI, and DWAI attorneys Ft Collins, CO residents recommend, we will work hard to dispute the charges against you. It is frightening to deal with such accusations, but our team is here to support you with high-quality and experienced legal services. We never recommend anyone representing themself in such a case, as it can have dire consequences; instead, hire a lawyer who can truly help you. Remember that we are affiliated with the Colorado Bar Association for a reason. Contact the office of Mark Adams, Attorney at Law to learn more about how we can assist you today.
With over 25 years of experience, our DUI and DWAI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO, have assisted many individuals through their trials and the complexities of legal battles. Don’t face this alone – we’re here to help. Count on a dependable lawyer to guide you through your case and expertly defend you. We will fight our hardest to get you the results you’re seeking. DWI, DUI, and DWAI cases can be tricky, but our experience, legal knowledge, and dedication to our clients can drastically increase your chances of winning your case. Look no further than our team of professionals to review your case and assist you during this difficult time.
1. What’s the difference between a DUI, DWI, and DWAI in Colorado?
In Colorado, these acronyms describe different levels of impaired driving offenses. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) applies when a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is substantially impaired by alcohol or drugs. DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) is a lesser offense, applying when a driver’s ability is impaired “to the slightest degree.” DWI is not officially recognized in Colorado law but is often used interchangeably with DUI in other states. Because the penalties vary depending on the level of impairment and prior offenses, it’s essential to consult with experienced DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO to understand how these distinctions may affect your case.
2. What are the potential penalties for a DUI or DWAI conviction?
Colorado takes impaired driving very seriously. A first-time DUI conviction can result in up to one year in jail, fines reaching $1,000, mandatory alcohol education, and a nine-month driver’s license suspension. A DWAI, while less severe, still carries up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, and points on your license. Repeat offenses trigger much harsher consequences, including mandatory jail time and longer license revocations. Each case is unique, and penalties can be influenced by factors like BAC level, prior offenses, or the presence of minors in the vehicle. Skilled DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO can often negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
3. How is blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measured, and why does it matter?
BAC measures the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream, and it’s the key factor in determining the severity of your charge. In Colorado, a BAC of 0.08% or higher typically leads to a DUI, while a BAC between 0.05% and 0.08% supports a DWAI charge. Law enforcement may use breath, blood, or urine tests to determine your BAC. However, these tests aren’t infallible—equipment errors, improper handling, or medical conditions can all skew results. That’s why consulting DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO immediately after your arrest is crucial. They can review your BAC results and challenge their accuracy when appropriate.
4. Can I refuse a breath or blood test during a DUI stop?
Technically, yes—but refusing a chemical test in Colorado comes with serious consequences under the implied consent law. By driving in the state, you’ve already consented to BAC testing if law enforcement suspects impairment. Refusal can trigger an automatic one-year license suspension and can be used as evidence of guilt in court. Despite these penalties, every situation is different. DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO can help you determine whether refusing the test was legally justified and may be able to challenge the suspension or the traffic stop itself.
5. What should I do immediately after being arrested for DUI or DWAI?
The first and most important step is to remain calm and avoid making incriminating statements. Cooperate respectfully with officers, but exercise your right to remain silent beyond providing basic identification information. Then, contact experienced DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO as soon as possible. You typically have only seven days after a DUI arrest to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension. Your attorney can help preserve your driving privileges, gather evidence, and begin building your defense right away.
6. Can a DUI or DWAI charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, depending on the circumstances, it’s possible to have DUI or DWAI charges reduced or even dismissed. Common defense strategies include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of breath or blood test results, or identifying procedural errors made by law enforcement. DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO with deep knowledge of local court procedures and relationships with prosecutors are often able to negotiate plea agreements or pursue alternative sentencing, such as alcohol treatment programs or community service, to minimize the long-term consequences.
7. How can an attorney help me with my DUI, DWAI, or DWI case?
An experienced attorney does far more than represent you in court. They analyze every detail of your arrest, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, protect your constitutional rights, and advocate for the best possible outcome—whether that’s a dismissal, reduced charges, or an alternative sentence. The laws surrounding DUIs and DWAIs in Colorado are complex and ever-evolving. Working with seasoned DUI attorneys in Ft Collins, CO ensures that you have a professional who understands both state law and local court dynamics, giving you the strongest defense possible.
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