If you were accused of driving under the influence (DUI), it is important to understand the legal processes that might ensue. Complicated legal issues could arise in a Loveland DUI case due to the many factors which come into play.

Because of this, it is essential to enlist a DUI attorney who is knowledgeable in cases like yours. The Colorado Lawyer Team is ready to take action to defend your rights and protect your best interests.

What is Considered a DUI?

The legal definition of driving under the influence (DUI) is, essentially, that an accused person is substantially incapable of successfully and safely operating their motor vehicle due to drugs, alcohol, or combination of both. There is a lesser offense of driving while ability impaired (DWAI) is far more inclusive, including driving when a person has consumed alcohol or one or more drugs, or a combination of both, “that affects the person to the slightest degree so that the person is less able than the person ordinarily would have been, either mentally or physically, or both mentally and physically, to exercise clear judgment, sufficient physical control, or due care in the safe operation of a vehicle.” Both charges have serious ramifications for the driver. For more information about what a DUI is, call a Loveland attorney familiar with these types of cases now.

Advisement Hearings for DUI Cases in Loveland

An advisement hearing in Loveland occurs when the accused person is initially  advised of their rights in the DUI or DWAI case by the court. Generally, the court will also ask you whether you want to talk with the district attorney (DA) or whether you want to hire a lawyer to defend you. You are welcome to do both, however, it may be worthwhile to get advice about what to say, or not say, when negotiating with the DA. If you talk to the district attorney and want to continue negotiations, the court will set you for a pretrial conference. If you want to hire an attorney, The Colorado Lawyer Team has attorneys experienced in DUI cases.

What to Do While a Case is Pending

Someone accused of a DUI in Loveland may be required by the court to participate in pretrial services supervision for aggravated cases. For a case involving a high BAC, or repeat offenders, the court may want the defendant to do monitored sobriety while their case is pending.

In addition, bond conditions may include conditions such as sobriety or complying with DMV restrictions, even if the accused was released at the police station, did not have to post bond, or just signed themselves out of jail. For more information on what could happen while a case is pending, call a well-versed attorney now.

It is important to read all documents received from the police and when the accused bonds out or is released. There may be a notice concerning the right to continue to drive. This “DMV” notice and consequences have very short deadlines to take action including requesting a hearing. This is separate from the DUI court process and has different dates and deadlines. For more information on what could happen while a case is pending, call a well-versed attorney now.

Driving under the Influence Cases in Trial

When you come back to court, you could be required to be fingerprinted, photographed, and have bond conditions imposed, such as do not leave the state and no driving without a valid license and insurance.

Being prepared for these conditions and consequences can be helpful. It is also important to remember while your case is pending, even after the pre-trial conference with the DA, you can speak to or hire a Loveland attorney. However, the best thing to do after you get accused of a DUI, is to call a lawyer right away.

Call an Attorney about Loveland DUI Cases Now

If you were accused of DUI or DWAI, it is important that you protect your rights and prepare a defense against the charges. These cases carry many consequences and are complex with both the court and DMV processes. You do not have to go through this alone.  Entrust The Colorado Lawyer Team to handle your case and defend your best interests. Call our virtual office now to learn more about your legal options.