Colorado DUI Breath Testing
May 9, 2024
Have you or someone you know been pulled over and subjected to a breath test in Colorado?
The state takes driving under the influence (DUI) seriously, and the laws here reflect that commitment to safety. If you're stopped by law enforcement and they suspect you're under the influence, chances are you'll be asked to submit to a breath test.
You should know that in Colorado, drivers are automatically assumed to have given “expressed consent" to chemical testing of their breath or blood for alcohol content. Refusal to be tested can lead to immediate penalties, including license suspension.
For drivers 21 and over, the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit is 0.08%. Drivers under 21 face stricter limits, with a BAC of 0.02% potentially leading to a DUI charge.
Colorado differentiates between DUI and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired), the latter reflecting a lesser degree of impairment (BAC of 0.05% to 0.079%). This nuanced approach allows the legal system to appropriately address varying levels of driving impairment, reinforcing the state's rigorous stance against all forms of impaired driving.
A DUI conviction in Colorado can have serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI education and treatment programs, or even jail time, depending on the seriousness of your case. A DUI can also give you a criminal record, affect your employment opportunities, and possibly increase insurance rates.
Breath Testing in Colorado: What You Need to Know
When it comes to DUI breath testing, not all tests are created equal. The breathalyzer used during your initial stop is typically a preliminary tool designed to establish probable cause for an arrest. It's the subsequent test at the station that truly matters for your legal proceedings.
Here’s where things get technical, and the role of an experienced attorney comes into play. The state of Colorado mandates that breathalyzer tests must be accurately calibrated and properly used to ensure that BAC readings are reliable. Cases where the breathalyzer was not properly calibrated or the test was not administered correctly, can be challenged during legal proceedings.
Facing Charges? Here’s How I Can Help
Contesting a DUI charge can be daunting; you need someone who not only understands the law but also genuinely cares about your situation. Here’s what when you hire me as your attorney:
Personal Attention
From our first consultation until the resolution of your case, I'm with you every step of the way. I don’t delegate my clients to junior attorneys because I believe in delivering personal, compassionate service to everyone I represent.
Knowledge and Experience
With over 20 years of working in Colorado DUI law, my legal knowledge and courtroom strategy are hard to beat. My certifications in field sobriety testing have given me unique insights into the DUI process, from arrest to resolution.
Compassionate Representation
I understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with DUI charges and the stress of working with the legal system. I take the time to help you feel at ease in dealing with the courts, whether you are guilty or not.
I support you by keeping you informed, addressing your concerns, and handling your case with thoughtful consideration.
Aggressive Defense
I’m relentless when it comes to defending your rights, both in court and at the DMV. My approach involves a thorough investigation of your case, searching for any advantage that can be used in your defense.
Reach Out to the Watkins Law Firm LLC Today
Facing a DUI charge in Colorado is serious, but you don't have to go through it alone. Whether you're grappling with the shock of a recent arrest or the frustration of license issues, my team and I are here to help.
My long-term relationships in the industry help me get prosecutors and judges to see things from your perspective.
I encourage you to reach out to Watkins Law Firm LLC right here in Boulder. Together, we can explore your options and craft a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. Remember, the best defense is a good offense—and in this case, that means hiring an experienced, dedicated attorney who’s willing to fight for you.
Together, we will take the next steps toward securing the best possible outcome for your case. Your welfare is always my highest priority, and I'm ready to go the extra mile to protect your rights and privileges.
Top-Rated DUI Attorney in Boulder, Colorado
For over 20 years, I've been standing up for folks in Boulder, Colorado, Longmont, and Lafayette. My law firm is all about providing personalized, hands-on help.
I am a seasoned courtroom warrior who has your back throughout the process. I work closely with each of my clients, really getting to know their stories and their goals. My goal? To offer clear, straightforward legal advice and fight tooth and nail for your rights.
Need help with your DUI? Call my firm today.