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Alternative Sentencing in Colorado DUIs

A conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or even for driving while ability impaired can result in severe consequences, especially for individuals who have prior similar convictions. In some cases, those consequences could include jail time. However, it may be possible to work with prosecutors and the Colorado legal system on alternative sentencing measures that may help you avoid some of the more severe consequences imposed after a DUI conviction. If you are facing Colorado DUI charges, it is important to understand the potential types of alternative sentencing available in Colorado and to remember that not all options are available in every situation.

Types of Alternative Sentencing

The types of alternative sentencing that may be available in any given case depend heavily on the nature of the charge an individual is facing as well as whether or not the person facing charges has a criminal record. Many of the alternative sentencing options available may help individuals facing possible jail time avoid that consequence, but even alternative sentencing measures can impose severe restrictions. Some types of alternative sentencing options in Colorado include:

Probation: Probation is a program that specifies a period of time after conviction during which an individual convicted of charges must comply with certain restrictions.
Weekend Jail Sentencing: If you are facing jail time as a result of a DUI conviction, it may be possible to work with the court to serve your jail sentence over the weekend. This option can help you remain with your family during the week and continue to work while fulfilling other obligations related to your sentencing.
Work Release: Work release requires an individual convicted of certain crimes and sentenced to jail to serve their sentence in a jail facility, but he or she will be released to fulfill employment obligations. In other words, you will still be able to work but you must return to a jail after work each day.
House Arrest: Also known as in-home detention, house arrest usually requires an individual convicted of certain crimes to remain in their home during their sentence. However, he or she is allowed to go to work, medical appointments, school, and other approved activities typically while being monitored by electronic monitoring devices.
Multiple Offender Programs: These programs are specifically designed for individuals who have multiple alcohol and/or drug-related offenses. These types of programs usually require an individual to begin a treatment program while in jail. If such treatment is found to be successful, an individual in such a program may be able to “graduate” to in-home detention or other phases to serve out the sentence.

Again, it is important to remember that not all of these options may be available for all offenders. There may also be additional options available depending on the location of your charges. In some cases, none of these options may be offered. However, working with an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney that has experience with DUIs and alternative sentencing measures related to a DUI conviction is an important step in attaining less restrictive penalties related to a DUI conviction.

Legal Assistance with Colorado DUIs

If you are facing a Colorado DUI or related charge, it is important to work with an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney with a focus on working with clients facing similar charges. Contact the criminal defense team at Tiftickjian Law Firm to schedule a consultation, where you can find out more information about the charges you are facing as well as what options might be available to you in your defense, including the potential for alternative sentencing measures should you be convicted.

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(image courtesy of Jens Lindner)