Boulder DUI
Attorney

Bruno Lilly LeClere

Why Choose Our DUI Defense Attorneys

Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC boasts a team of dedicated DUI defense attorneys in Boulder, each committed to providing unwavering support and strategic representation to individuals facing DUI charges. Our experienced defense lawyers have a strong track record representing clients specifically in Boulder County, and we are highly familiar with Boulder County’s legal processes. Our Boulder criminal defense attorneys understand the DUI laws in Colorado and bring a wealth of trial experience and legal guidance to the table, ensuring that each client receives the personalized attention and vigorous advocacy they deserve.

Call (720) 340-1373 now to speak to our Boulder DUI defense lawyer.

DUI Defense in Boulder

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Colorado, carrying severe penalties that can significantly impact every aspect of your life. From hefty fines and jail time to the loss of driving privileges, the consequences of a DUI conviction are far-reaching. Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, but having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side can make all the difference. A Boulder DUI attorney provides essential legal guidance, helping you understand your rights and options when facing DUI charges. With the right defense attorney, you can approach your case with confidence, knowing you have a dedicated advocate working to protect your future and minimize the impact of a DUI on your life.

Understanding DUI Offenses in Boulder

The laws surrounding impaired driving in Boulder, Colorado, are stringent and strictly enforced, with DUI/DWAI offenses carrying severe penalties. Being arrested for operating a motor vehicle with a BAC over 0.08 or under the influence of marijuana can lead to DUI charges. A DUI arrest can also result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Colorado law applies to any motor vehicle, not just cars, when it comes to impaired driving. It’s crucial to understand the legal limits based on age and commercial driving status, as well as the harsh repercussions for marijuana-related offenses, including jail time and license suspension.

Repeat DUIs escalate in severity, potentially resulting in felony criminal charges. Moreover, aggravating factors like extreme intoxication or causing accidents while impaired can further increase penalties, underscoring the importance of legal representation.

Boulder DUI Laws and Regulations

Boulder DUI laws are governed by strict Colorado statutes, with specific regulations and penalties for both DUI and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) offenses. If you are convicted of a DUI charge in Boulder, you may face severe penalties, including substantial fines, mandatory community service, and possible jail time. The legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) in Colorado is 0.08%, but drivers under the legal drinking age are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable alcohol can result in criminal charges. A Boulder criminal defense lawyer can help you understand these complex laws and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation. Whether you are facing a first-time DUI or a repeat offense, a skilled defense lawyer can work to minimize penalties and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Understanding the Consequences of Intoxicated Driving in Boulder

When confronting a DUI or DWAI charge in Boulder, it’s imperative to grasp the potential criminal consequences. Despite their classification as misdemeanors, these charges in Colorado entail significant penalties, with the severity often tied to the individual’s prior criminal offenses. Individuals facing criminal charges for DUI or DWAI may face fines, have their driving privileges taken away, and jail time, while DWAI charges could result in fines and shorter jail terms. A DUI conviction also results in a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences beyond the immediate penalties.

Due to their criminal records, repeat offenders encounter harsher penalties, including increased fines, longer license revocation periods, and more substantial jail sentences.

What to Expect from a DUI Arrest

A DUI arrest in Boulder can be a daunting experience, often beginning with a traffic stop and escalating to field sobriety tests or a blood test to determine your BAC. After the initial arrest, you may be taken into custody and required to participate in a DMV hearing, which can affect your driving privileges. It is crucial to contact a Boulder DUI attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected from the very start. An experienced defense attorney can provide valuable legal counsel, explain your options, and help you pursue a plea deal or even a case dismissal if the circumstances allow. Throughout the process, from the initial arrest to court appearances, your attorney will advocate for your best interests and guide you toward the most favorable outcome.

Defending Against DUI Charges

Successfully defending against DUI charges in Boulder requires a deep understanding of Colorado’s DUI laws and a strategic approach to each case. A Boulder criminal defense attorney will analyze every detail of your arrest, from the administration of field sobriety tests to the legality of the stop itself. By challenging the evidence and questioning the procedures used by law enforcement, your defense attorney can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges. In some situations, taking your case to a jury trial may be the best way to achieve a favorable outcome. With extensive knowledge of criminal law and experience handling DUI cases—including those involving domestic violence or vehicular assault—your attorney will build a strong defense designed to protect your rights and future.

Specialized DUI Defense

When facing DUI charges in Boulder, specialized DUI defense is essential to achieving the best possible result. A Boulder DUI attorney with extensive experience in DUI cases can provide personalized legal guidance from the moment of your initial arrest through every stage of the legal process. Whether you are dealing with a first-time DUI charge or a more serious felony DUI, a skilled defense lawyer will assess the unique factors of your case and develop a tailored defense strategy. This specialized approach can help safeguard your driving privileges, minimize penalties, and protect your future opportunities. With a dedicated DUI defense attorney on your side, you can navigate the complex legal landscape of Colorado with confidence, knowing your rights and best interests are always the top priority.

FAQs by Boulder Clients

Q. What are the penalties for refusing to take a chemical test during a DUI stop in Colorado?

A. Refusing to take a chemical test during a DUI stop in Colorado carries serious consequences under the state’s express consent law. If you refuse, the Department of Motor Vehicles will automatically suspend your driver’s license for one year, even if you are not ultimately convicted of DUI in court. A second refusal within your lifetime can result in a two-year suspension, and a third refusal can bring a three-year suspension. In addition, refusal may be used as evidence against you in a criminal case, making it harder to defend yourself. You could also face additional penalties such as mandatory alcohol education, ignition interlock requirements, and higher insurance costs. Because these consequences can significantly impact your daily life, it is important to understand your rights. Speaking with an experienced Boulder DUI attorney can help you evaluate your options and fight to protect your driving privileges and record.

Q. What is the legal limit for DWAI in Colorado?

A. In Colorado, the legal limit for Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) is lower than the standard DUI threshold. A person can face a DWAI charge if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is between 0.05% and 0.079%. While this may seem like a small amount, the law presumes that even this level of alcohol can affect judgment and coordination enough to make driving unsafe. Unlike a DUI, which requires a BAC of 0.08% or higher, a DWAI conviction can still bring penalties such as fines, community service, and up to 180 days in jail for a first offense. It can also lead to points on your driving record and increased insurance costs. For many drivers, even one drink could put them close to the DWAI range. If you are charged with DWAI, the consequences can follow you for years. A knowledgeable Boulder DUI attorney can explain the differences between DWAI and DUI and help build a strong defense to reduce or dismiss charges.

Q. Can I be charged with DUI if I’m driving an electric scooter?

A. Yes, Colorado law allows police to charge someone with DUI for operating an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The law applies to any vehicle propelled by a motor, which includes e-scooters, mopeds, and even some electric bicycles. If you are stopped and found impaired, you may face many of the same penalties as if you were driving a car, including fines, community service, mandatory alcohol classes, and potential jail time. These charges can also affect your driving record and future employment opportunities. Because electric scooters are often used in downtown areas, police frequently monitor for impaired riders and may stop individuals who appear unsteady or reckless. Even if you think you are safe because you are not driving a traditional car, the law does not treat it lightly. A Boulder DUI attorney can review the facts of your case and fight to protect you from the harsh consequences of a scooter-related DUI.

Contact Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC Today​

A DUI is a serious offense. We offer a free consultation for individuals seeking legal advice about DUI or other criminal charges. Having a skillful attorney on your side is pivotal. When facing DUI or DWAI charges in Boulder, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney who can help develop a defense strategy to help you avoid trouble. At Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Boulder bring extensive expertise in defending against drunk driving and drugged driving charges. Our attorneys have backgrounds as former public defenders and are equipped to handle a wide range of criminal cases, including weapons charges. Call our seasoned attorneys today at (720) 340-1373 for a confidential consultation to discuss your DUI case and explore your legal options—our goal is always to achieve a more favorable outcome for each client.