Drunk Driving Arrest in Denver, Colorado
If you are stopped by a police officer while driving, it is important for you to know and understand your rights as a citizen. The following list provides basic information pertaining to Colorado state laws that could help you avoid a DUI arrest in Denver.
- You have the right to remain silent. The first thing an officer might ask you if he or she suspects that you have been drinking is, how many drinks have you had tonight? From the start, the officer is trying to gather information in order to build a case against you. Besides providing basic information like your license and registration, you are not obligated under Colorado law to speak to the officer about what you have been doing, where you are going, or how much you have had to drink.
- You do not have to take a roadside sobriety test. Despite what an officer may tell you, roadside sobriety tests are not mandatory according to Colorado, including Denver, drunk driving laws. The tests are a way for the officer to build a case against you. Roadside sobriety tests can include a PBT or preliminary breath test, checking your eyes for drunkenness, asking you to count or say the alphabet, or asking you to stand on one leg or walk in a straight line. It is your right to refuse if an officer asks you to perform a test like this.
- You could lose your license if you do not take a mandatory chemical test. This chemical test includes a blood test, and must be performed at a police station under strict guidelines. You have the option of retaining a sample of your blood to be tested at another facility. You could still be charged with drunk driving even if you refuse the mandatory chemical test—and the courts will use any evidence that the officer is able to gather to support your Denver DUI arrest.
A better understanding of Denver DUI law
If you are convicted of drunk driving in Denver, you have a difficult road to face. Do not face it alone. An experienced DUI attorney from The Orr Law Firm is waiting to help you with your DUI arrest. With our understanding of Colorado DUI law, we can help you avoid the life-altering consequences of a DUI conviction such losing your license, paying hefty fines, or even spending time in jail.
Contact us for skilled legal support
To learn more about Rhidian Orr and his staff of trained professionals, visit the Our Staff page or contact The Orr Law Firm for a no obligation, free consultation to discuss your case and the facts surrounding it.
