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Colorado Second Offense DUI Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a second DUI, you need a Colorado Second Offense DUI Lawyer who knows how to fight back.
A second DUI in Colorado is far more serious than a first. Judges, prosecutors, and probation officers see it as proof that the first penalties “didn’t work.” That means you’re facing mandatory jail time, longer license revocations, higher fines, and stricter probation.
If you’ve been charged with a second DUI, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation immediately.
Penalties for a Second DUI in Colorado
If convicted of a second DUI, the court must impose mandatory penalties:
- Jail: Minimum 10 days up to 1 year in county jail (the 10 days cannot be suspended). Depending on the circumstances, I can often argue for in-home detention (if the prior was more than 5 years old) or work release instead of straight jail.
- Fines: Up to $1,500, plus court costs and surcharges.
- License revocation: Up to 1 year, with longer suspensions possible if you refused testing.
- Ignition interlock device: Mandatory for at least 2 years once you’re eligible for reinstatement.
- Alcohol education and treatment: Longer and more intensive than for a first offense.
- Community service: Up to 120 hours.
A second DWAI also carries mandatory jail (minimum 10 days) and increased penalties.
Collateral Consequences of a Second DUI Conviction
Beyond the criminal penalties, a second DUI can cause:
- Increased auto insurance costs or loss of coverage.
- Serious employment consequences, especially for licensed professionals or commercial drivers.
- Immigration issues for non-citizens.
- Harsher penalties for any future offenses — a fourth DUI is a felony in Colorado.
Why You Need a Colorado Second Offense DUI Lawyer
Unlike a first DUI, where judges sometimes give people a break, a second DUI is treated as a repeat-offender case. That means:
- Jail is mandatory under the law — but an experienced Colorado Second Offense DUI Lawyer can argue how that time is served (in-home detention or work release).
- The DMV process becomes more complex, and saving your license is harder.
- Prosecutors are far less likely to offer leniency.
I’ve defended hundreds of repeat-offender DUI cases in Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson, Weld, and Denver. I know how local judges and prosecutors handle these cases, and I know how to fight back.
Defense Strategies for Second Offense DUIs
Even in a second case, the prosecution must prove its case. Defenses may include:
- Challenging the legality of the stop or arrest.
- Questioning the accuracy of the breath or blood test.
- Challenging the validity of the prior conviction (sometimes the prosecution cannot prove the prior through DMV records, court records, or proper certification).
- Arguing for reduced charges or alternative sentencing through a proactive mitigation strategy that shows who my client really is — not just what’s in a police report.
As a Colorado Second Offense DUI Lawyer, I use every available defense to challenge the state’s evidence and protect your future.
Quick FAQ – Second DUI in Colorado
Will I have to go to jail?
Yes, the law requires at least 10 days in jail for a second DUI. However, that doesn’t always mean straight time. Depending on your case, I can often argue for in-home detention (if your prior was more than 5 years old) or work release instead.
Will I lose my license?
It depends. The stakes and complexities are higher than on a first offense. We fight the case on both fronts — at the DMV and in criminal court. If we can’t save your license, I focus on securing early reinstatement as soon as possible.
Can I avoid a second DUI conviction?
Possibly. Every case is unique. If there are weaknesses in the state’s evidence — in the stop, testing, or proof of your prior — I may be able to negotiate for a lesser charge or fight for dismissal.
Call Me Today
If you’ve been arrested for a second DUI in Colorado, the risks are far greater than a first offense.
Call Colorado Second Offense DUI Lawyer Monte Robbins at 303-355-5148 for a free consultation.
You’ll speak directly with me — not a call screener or junior associate.