DUI FINES & FEES IN COLORADO
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a severe offense in Colorado, and if you’re convicted, you can expect to face significant fines and fees. In addition to the financial consequences, a DUI conviction can also result in jail time, community service, and your driver’s license suspension.
If you have been charged with a DUI in Colorado, it’s essential to understand the fines and fees associated with your case. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Colorado DUI fines and fees, including the different types of fines, how much you can expect to pay, and what factors can influence the final cost of your case.
Types of Fines and Fees Associated with a Colorado DUI:
When you are convicted of a DUI in Colorado, there are several types of fines and fees you may be required to pay. These include:
Court Fines: Court fines are the most common type of fine associated with a DUI conviction in Colorado. The court assesses these fines, which can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the offense.
Victim Assistance Fund Fees: In addition to court fines, you may also be required to pay a victim assistance fund fee. This fee is used to help victims of crime and is typically a flat fee of $78.
Alcohol Education and Treatment Fees: If you are convicted of a DUI in Colorado, you must attend alcohol education and treatment classes. These classes are designed to help you understand the risks and consequences of drinking and driving and can help you avoid future DUI convictions. The cost of these classes can vary, but you can expect to pay several hundred dollars for them.
Ignition Interlock Device Fees: If you are convicted of a DUI in Colorado, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing you to start your car and can prevent you from driving if your BAC is above a certain level. The cost of installing and maintaining this device can be several hundred dollars.
How Much Will You Pay for a Colorado DUI?
The cost of a DUI in Colorado can vary widely, depending on several factors. In general, you can expect to pay at least a few thousand dollars in fines and fees, but the final cost of your case will depend on a variety of factors, including:
The Severity of Your Offense: The more severe your offense, the higher your fines and fees will be. For example, if you are convicted of a first-time DUI with a BAC of .08 to .149, you can expect to pay fines and fees of up to $1,000. However, if you are convicted of a second or subsequent DUI, or your BAC is .15 or higher, you can expect to pay significantly more.
Your Driving Record: If you have a history of DUI or other traffic offenses, you may be required to pay higher fines and fees.
Whether Anyone Was Injured: If you were involved in an accident and someone was injured due to your DUI, you can expect to pay higher fines and fees.
Factors That Can Influence the Cost of a Colorado DUI:
Legal Representation: If you hire a DUI defense attorney, you can expect to pay additional fees for their services. However, having an experienced attorney on your side can also help reduce the cost of your case by reducing the fines and fees you must pay.
Plea Bargaining: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution. This can involve pleading guilty to a lesser offense, resulting in lower fines and fees.
Court Costs: In addition to fines and fees, you may be required to pay court costs. These costs can include fees for filing documents, court reporters, and other expenses related to your case.
DMV Fees: If your driver’s license is suspended due to your DUI, you may be required to pay additional fees to the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to reinstate your license.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado DUI Fines and Fees:
Do I have to pay all of my fines and fees at once?
You can set up a payment plan with the court to pay your fines and fees over time.
Can I negotiate my fines and fees?
It may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain or request a reduction in fines and fees, but this will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
Can I avoid fines and fees by attending alcohol education and treatment classes?
Attending alcohol education and treatment classes is required as part of your sentence but will not eliminate the fines and fees associated with your DUI conviction.
What happens if I can’t afford to pay my fines and fees?
If you cannot pay your fines and fees, you can request a reduction or waiver based on your financial situation.
A DUI conviction in Colorado can have serious financial consequences, including fines and fees that can add up to thousands of dollars. It’s important to understand the different types of fines and fees associated with a Colorado DUI, as well as the factors that can influence the final cost of your case.
If you have been charged with a DUI in Colorado, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is essential. An experienced DUI defense attorney can help you understand your options and potentially reduce the fines and fees associated with your case.