Going to court for a Denver DUI is stressful. Thankfully, you can take steps to prepare yourself for a court appearance and minimize the impact a DUI arrest has on your life.
The first thing you should do when learning of your charge is contact a DUI defense attorney. When you work with our staff we prepare you for your court appearance before a judge. Additionally, you can use the information in this DUI court hearing preparation guide to get ready.
Understand the Charges Against You
Understanding DUI charges before your court date is essential. For example, are you being charged with DUI (driving under the influence), DWAI (driving while ability impaired), or UDD (underage drinking and driving)? Is it your first or fourth DUI? Was your blood alcohol level .08% or .20%? The latter carries mandatory jail time.
You’ll also want to know what hearing you’re attending. In your initial court appearance (an arraignment), the state doesn’t have to prove anything. At other stages of your case, the state must have sufficient evidence against you and you may present evidence to defend yourself.
Know the Potential Penalties
Colorado DUI laws have serious penalties that can affect your ability to work, drive, and live a normal life. Depending on the violation, the potential consequences of a DUI conviction include the following:
- Driver’s license revocation for nine to 24 months
- Four to 12 points against your driver’s license
- From two days in jail to six years in prison
- Suspension or loss of professional licenses, including those held by airline pilots, medical professionals, teachers, and truck drivers
Hire an Experienced DUI Attorney
An experienced Denver DUI attorney can help if this sounds confusing or overwhelming. A DUI defense attorney will do the following:
- Explain what to expect at your DUI court appearance
- Discuss your legal options
- Represent you in court
- Gather and analyze evidence
- Strengthen your DUI defense strategy
- Protect your legal rights
Cooperate in Your Case
Hiring qualified legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case, but they need your cooperation. You can help your attorney prepare for your court date with a DUI by doing the following:
Being Honest With Your Legal Team
It’s natural to want to present yourself in a positive light. However, it’s important to be direct and honest with your attorney. Leaving out information can prevent your legal team from mounting an effective defense.
Gathering the Evidence You Need for Your DUI Case
Your legal team will gather evidence on your behalf. You can help them by keeping your medical records, providing any photographic or video footage of the traffic stop (such as a dash cam recording), or sharing the contact information of witnesses who saw the interaction.
Being on Your Best Behavior for DUI Court Proceedings
As in many other areas of life, first impressions in court are everything. Attend every hearing, arrive on time, dress appropriately, avoid emotional outbursts, and show respect for the court and legal system.
If you have a court date for a DUI, an experienced Denver DUI defense attorney can help you prepare. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our skilled legal team.