Drunk Driving Arrest in Denver, CO
Denver DUI Lawyers Explain Your Rights in DUI Cases
If you are stopped by a police officer while driving, it is important for you to know and understand your rights as a citizen. Our Denver DUI attorneys provide basic information pertaining to Colorado state laws that could help you avoid a DUI arrest in Denver.
- Keep the following in mind:
- 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, proof of insurance 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 nystagmus, 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 decline these tests if an officer asks you to perform roadside sobriety tests.
- You could lose your license if you do not take a mandatory chemical test. This chemical test includes a breath test or a blood test, and must be performed under strict guidelines. If you choose a breath test, two breath samples will be analyzed and you will be given the lower of the two results. If you choose a blood test, two vials of blood will be drawn and you will have the ability to have the second vial independently tested at a certified laboratory of your choice at a later date and time. You will still be charged with drunk driving even if you refuse the mandatory chemical test--and the district attorney will try to use your refusal as evidence that you were hiding something or had a guilty conscience. The District Attorney will also use any evidence the officer is able to gather to support your Denver DUI arrest.
A better understanding of Denver DUI law
If you are charged with 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 following your DUI arrest. With our understanding of Colorado DUI law and unique certifications, we can help you build a strong and effective defense. When you want to avoid the life-altering consequences of a DUI conviction such losing your license, paying hefty fines, or even spending time in jail, call The Orr Law Firm.
Schedule a free consultation with our Denver DUI lawyers now by calling (720) 619-2676. We are ready to help you.