Saint Patrick’s Day is a great holiday. We hope you had a good time last night with your friends. We also hope you didn’t drink and drive, because the Loveland, Fort Collins, and Estes Park police were out in force, on the lookout for drunk drivers. If you were charged with DUI or DWAI last night for driving after drinking a few beers at your favorite Irish pub, you need to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to begin working on your defense immediately. A DUI is a bad thing to have on your record – it isn’t sealable, and many employers are wary to hire people who have a criminal record. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind if you have been charged:
Voluntary Roadside Tests
If you have been charged with a DUI or DWAI in Larimer or Boulder County, it’s important to know the law regarding your arrest. When you are pulled over under suspicion of DUI, the police officer will most likely ask if you have had anything to drink. The usual response is “a couple beers.” Then, the police officer may ask you to complete voluntary roadside tests and maneuvers. These are not required. In fact, it is never in your best interest to participate (not even a completely sober person can successfully complete these tests). Meanwhile, the police officer will be watching you closely for signs of intoxication. These are:
- Bloodshot or watery eyes
- Alcohol on your breath
- Swerving while driving
- Slurred speech
If the police officer saw any of these signs, they will be included in the police report and will be used as evidence against you by the District Attorney.
Mandatory Blood or Breath Test – After Your Arrest
The Express Consent test (blood alcohol content or BAC test) is required by law. In order to get your driver’s license in Larimer or Jackson County, you must give your consent to participate in a blood or breath test if law enforcement officers have probable cause to arrest you for DUI or DWAI. It is important to understand the officer must arrest you before you are required to take this test. This means they must have probable cause you were driving while under the influence of alcohol. When an officer makes an arrest for DUI or DWAI without probable cause, we have a strong defense. This can mean the results of the blood or breath tests won’t be allowed as evidence in the courtroom.
Contact Us If You Have been Charged with DUI or DWAI
If you are facing charges of DUI or DWAI in Johnstown, Dacono, Wellington, or anywhere in the Front Range, don’t hesitate to contact a skilled DUI defense attorney at our law firm. We have over 40 years of experience fighting unjust and unlawful DUI or DWAI charges. We can fight on your behalf in court and protect your future and reputation.