Administrative License Suspension in Colorado

As you navigate the roads of Colorado, it’s crucial to adhere strictly to the regulations that govern driving, most notably those related to DUI and DWAI offenses. If you fail to comply, you may be subjected to what’s known as an Administrative License Suspension (ALS). This suspension is an automatic action taken by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), separate from any court-imposed penalties following a criminal conviction for DUI or DWAI. This article will delve into the intricacies of Administrative License Suspension in Colorado, providing a comprehensive understanding of its mechanism, legal ramifications, and ways to challenge it.

Understanding the Administrative License Suspension

The Administrative License Suspension (ALS) is a preemptive, immediate penalty enforced by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) against individuals suspected of DUI or DWAI. The penalty is primarily a license suspension which may last from a few months to several years, depending on the severity of the offense and the offender’s driving history. Contrary to what many believe, the ALS process is independent of the court proceedings, and even if one is acquitted in court, the ALS may remain in effect.

Legal Grounds for an Administrative License Suspension in Colorado

In Colorado, the primary legal grounds for an ALS are a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or a refusal to take a chemical test upon the request of a law enforcement officer. Importantly, even a first-time offense can result in an ALS, underscoring the state’s commitment to combating impaired driving.

Process of Administrative License Suspension

Upon being charged with a DUI or DWAI offense, the law enforcement officer will confiscate the driver’s license and issue a temporary driving permit that expires in seven days. The accused then has these seven days to request a hearing with the DMV to dispute the ALS. Failing to request a hearing results in an automatic license suspension starting from the eighth day.

Legal Consequences of Administrative License Suspension

The ALS can lead to various legal consequences beyond the initial license suspension. These may include mandatory participation in alcohol and drug education programs, installation of an ignition interlock device in the driver’s vehicle, and significant increases in insurance premiums.

Challenging an Administrative License Suspension

Challenging an ALS in Colorado involves requesting a hearing with the DMV within seven days. During this hearing, the accused can present evidence and arguments in their defense. However, the hearing is purely administrative and does not consider elements of criminal defense such as probable cause and constitutional rights.

Tips for Avoiding Administrative License Suspension

Avoiding an ALS primarily involves safe and responsible driving. Understanding the legal limits for alcohol consumption and consistently choosing not to drink and drive can eliminate the risk of ALS. Using a designated driver or ride-share service can be a valuable strategy for those who drink.

Role of a DUI Attorney in an Administrative License Suspension

A DUI attorney can play a vital role in the ALS process. They can assist in requesting and preparing for the DMV hearing, help present a persuasive defense, and guide the accused through the complexities of the ALS and criminal court proceedings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an Administrative License Suspension?

•  An Administrative License Suspension (ALS) is an automatic, immediate penalty that results in a driver’s license suspension, enforced by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for individuals suspected of DUI or DWAI.

2. How long can an ALS last in Colorado?

•  The duration of an ALS in Colorado can vary from a few months to several years, depending on the severity of the offense and the offender’s driving history.

3. Can ALS be disputed in Colorado?

•  Yes, you can dispute an ALS in Colorado by requesting a hearing with the DMV within seven days of receiving the temporary driving permit.

4. Can I still be subject to ALS even if I’m acquitted in court?

•  Yes, the ALS process is independent of the court proceedings, so even if acquitted, the ALS may remain in effect.

5. What are the legal grounds for an ALS in Colorado?

•  In Colorado, an ALS is typically triggered by a BAC of 0.08% or higher or a refusal to take a chemical test upon a law enforcement officer’s request.

6. What are the legal consequences of ALS?

•  The ALS can lead to legal consequences such as mandatory alcohol and drug education programs, an ignition interlock device installed in the driver’s vehicle, and increased insurance premiums.

7. How can I avoid ALS?

•  Safe and responsible driving is the primary means of avoiding ALS. If you choose to drink, ensure you have a designated driver or use a ride-share service.

8. How can a DUI attorney assist with an ALS?

•  A DUI attorney can assist in requesting and preparing for the DMV hearing, help present a compelling defense, and guide you through the complexities of the ALS and criminal court proceedings.

9. What is the role of the DMV in ALS?

• The ALS is enforced by the DMV, which also holds the administrative hearing and has last say over whether or not the license suspension will stand.

10. What happens if I fail to request a hearing with the DMV within seven days?

•  If you fail to request a hearing within seven days, your license will be automatically suspended starting the eighth day.

Conclusion

Administrative License Suspension in Colorado is a testament to the state’s commitment to maintaining safety on its roads. While daunting, this immediate and automatic penalty underscores the gravity of DUI and DWAI offenses. Understanding its processes, consequences, and ways to challenge it is vital for any driver. By promoting responsible driving, educating oneself on the legal limits, and understanding the ramifications of one’s actions, the prevalence of ALS cases could be significantly reduced. Moreover, securing legal representation with a DUI attorney can make navigating the intricacies of this legal predicament more manageable.