Facing DUI charges is a difficult experience for anyone. While the legal process involved with DUI charges is stressful, it is important to remember that if you are convicted, then the process is not over. By understanding the various aspects of Colorado DUI probation, you can be prepared for how it might impact your life after the in-court proceedings are over. Many people think they have an understanding of what probation entails, but it is important to understand all aspects of probation. The following information can help you understand more about how DUI probation works in Colorado as well as what might be involved.

DUI Probation Basics

There are basically two types of probation: supervised and unsupervised. Unsupervised probation is typically reserved for exceptional circumstances depending on the facts of a given case. It can be cheaper because you will not need to pay fees associated with probation monitoring. Unsupervised probation also means you do not need to meet with a probation officer, and often other consequences associated with supervised probation are waived.

Usually, individuals convicted of a DUI in Colorado will be required to undergo mandatory supervised probation. The period of time that probation will last depends on the circumstances of the case, state law, and judicial discretion. For first-time DUI offenders, the probation period generally lasts for one to two years. For repeat offenders, the probation period can be longer and ranges from between two and four years.

DUI Probation Requirements

The specific requirements for DUI probation will depend on the individual and the facts of the case. However, supervised DUI probation usually includes some combination of the following:

• Monthly probation meetings, which will require you to pay a supervision fee that will either be paid monthly or included in your court costs;
• Supervised chemical testing to ensure your sobriety during probation, including urine and/or breath testing;
• Mandatory attendance in an alcohol and/or drug treatment program;
• Mandatory reporting requirements as specified by your probation terms and/or the probation officer supervising your case;
• Mandatory attendance at victim impact panels, which are typically two to three hours classes highlighting the significant negative impact of driving under the influence; and
• Mandatory community service, along with other requirements the court determines to be appropriate based on the facts of your case.

These requirements can have a significant impact on many aspects of your life and are in addition to revocation and/or restrictions that will be placed on your license They can be costly, and you will be required to pay for them out-of-pocket.

Legal Assistance with Colorado DUIs

The potential criminal penalties for a DUI conviction can be severe, but you do not have to face your charges alone. If you are facing DUI charges, it is important to find legal assistance quickly. Experience matters when you are facing DUI charges, either for alcohol or drugs. The dedicated criminal defense team at Tiftickjian Law Firm focuses their practice on helping clients throughout the Colorado DUI process – including issues involving DUI probation. If you are facing Colorado DUI charges or have Colorado DUI probation questions, contact the criminal defense team at Tiftickjian Law Firm to schedule a consultation where you can find out more information about the issues you are facing as well as what options might be available to you moving forward.

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(image courtesy of Robert Mathews)