FAQs

The Law Office of Ryan Peterson, LLC

  • What should I do immediately after being arrested for a DUI or DWAI in Colorado?

    It's crucial to contact a DUI defense attorney as soon as possible after an arrest. Additionally, you may need to request a DMV hearing within seven days to prevent automatic license suspension or revocation.
  • What is the difference between DUI and DWAI in Colorado?

    DUI involves driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, while DWAI applies to drivers with a BAC between 0.05% and 0.08% who are still impaired. DWAI carries penalties but is considered less severe than DUI. Call and ask us if you have any questions. Our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO are ready to help you.
  • Can commercial drivers lose their CDL after a DUI or DWAI arrest?

    Yes. Commercial drivers face stricter standards, and any alcohol-related offense can result in CDL suspension or permanent disqualification. Contact our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO if you need help.
  • How does Colorado treat DUI cases involving drugs (prescription or illegal)?

    Drug-related DUIs are prosecuted similarly to alcohol DUIs. Even legal medications can lead to charges if they impair your ability to drive. Consult our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO if you have any questions.
  • What are the penalties for a first-time DUI or DWAI offense in Colorado?

    Penalties may include fines, license suspension, license revocation, community service, alcohol education, and possible jail time. DWAI penalties are generally lighter but still serious. Contact our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO if you need help after an offense.
  • What happens if I'm charged with a felony DUI?

    According to the National Highway Safety Administration, it is illegal in all 50 states to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher. Felony DUI charges typically result from multiple prior offenses or causing injury/death. These carry prison time, large fines, and long-term consequences. If you are looking for DUI or DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO to help deal with a charge, reach out to us today!
  • Can I fight a DUI or DWAI charge if I failed a breathalyzer or blood test?

    Yes. These tests can be challenged based on improper administration, calibration errors, or medical conditions. Legal defense strategies vary by case. Consult our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO today if you want help fighting charges.
  • What are the consequences of a DUI with injury in Colorado?

    A DUI involving injury is often prosecuted as a felony offense in Colorado. Potential consequences include imprisonment, substantial fines, mandatory restitution to victims with serious bodily injury, and a permanent criminal record.
  • Is it possible to get a DUI or DWAI expunged or sealed in Colorado?

    DUI and DWAI conviction records are not eligible to be sealed for a period of 5 years after the completion of a person's sentence. After that, conviction records are eligible to be sealed, but the legal burden required to convince a judge that the record should be sealed is very high. In situations where all charges are dismissed, and in situations where a person is arrested but charges aren't filed, generally Colorado law allows the record to be sealed. Contact our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO if you want help expunging or sealing your record today.
  • How are underage DUI or DWAI cases handled differently?

    Colorado enforces essentially a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. Even minimal alcohol levels can result in license suspension and other penalties. Contact our DWAI lawyers in Denver, CO if you have questions.