Understanding Colorado’s Underage DUI Laws
Colorado has strict laws regarding underage drinking and driving. Unlike adults, who are considered legally intoxicated with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher, minors can be charged with a DUI if their BAC is between 0.02 and 0.05 percent. This is known as a “Zero Tolerance” policy, reflecting the state’s commitment to deterring underage drinking and driving. If your teen is caught driving with a BAC above 0.05 percent, they can be charged with a regular DUI, which carries even more severe penalties. These laws exist to protect young drivers, who are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents when impaired. It is important to understand that even a first offense can result in serious consequences, including fines, community service, mandatory alcohol education programs, and the suspension of their driver’s license. As a parent, familiarizing yourself with these laws is the first step in supporting your teen. The penalties associated with underage DUI in Colorado can be life-altering. A conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, which may affect college admissions, job prospects, and even the ability to obtain certain professional licenses. The emotional impact on your teen can also be profound, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety about their future. Understanding the legal landscape will help you better navigate the situation and make informed decisions about the best course of action.
With You Every Step of the Journey
When you need legal help, Mark Hanchey and Ben Peterson are here to guide you through it all. One step at a time. Reach out today for legal support. Get The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson fighting for you
Free Consultation Download PDFProviding Emotional Support to Your Teen
The emotional well-being of your teen is paramount during this difficult time. An underage DUI arrest can be a traumatic experience, and your teen may be struggling with a range of emotions, from fear and regret to anger and confusion. It is essential to create a supportive environment where they feel safe to express their feelings and concerns. While it is important to address the gravity of the situation, it is equally important to avoid harsh criticism or judgment that could exacerbate their distress. Start by having an open and honest conversation with your teen about the arrest. Listen to their side of the story without interruption and let them know that you are there to support them, regardless of the mistake they have made. Acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that they are not alone in dealing with the consequences. This is also an opportunity to discuss the dangers of drinking and driving, emphasizing the potential risks to their safety and the safety of others on the road. In addition to providing emotional support, it is important to monitor your teen’s mental health closely. The stress of a DUI arrest can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. If you notice any signs of distress, such as changes in mood, behavior, or sleeping patterns, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional. Counseling or therapy can provide your teen with a safe space to process their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies. It can also help them address any underlying issues that may have contributed to their drinking, such as peer pressure, academic stress, or low self-esteem.Guiding Your Teen Through the Legal Process
Navigating the legal process after an underage DUI arrest can be overwhelming, especially for a young person who may have little understanding of the law. As a parent, your role is to guide your teen through this process and ensure that their rights are protected. The first step is to seek legal representation from an attorney who has experience in handling underage DUI cases in Colorado. A skilled attorney can provide valuable advice on how to proceed and work to minimize the impact of the arrest on your teen’s future. During the legal process, it is important to stay informed and involved. Attend all court hearings with your teen and make sure they understand the charges against them, as well as the potential consequences. Your attorney will help you navigate the complexities of the case and explore options for reducing the charges or penalties. In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal that results in lesser charges or alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or community service. It is also essential to ensure that your teen complies with all court orders and legal requirements. This may include attending alcohol education classes, performing community service, or participating in a diversion program. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in additional penalties, including jail time. By staying engaged in the process and working closely with your attorney, you can help your teen fulfill their obligations and move forward with their life.Addressing the Underlying Issues
An underage DUI arrest is often a symptom of deeper issues that need to be addressed. Whether it is peer pressure, a desire to fit in, or stress from school or home life, it is important to identify the root causes of your teen’s behavior and take steps to address them. This is an opportunity to have a candid conversation with your teen about the choices they made and the factors that influenced those choices. Encourage your teen to reflect on the events leading up to their arrest and consider what they could have done differently. This can be a valuable learning experience that helps them develop better decision-making skills and a greater awareness of the consequences of their actions. It is also important to discuss the dangers of alcohol use and the impact it can have on their health, relationships, and future opportunities. If your teen has been struggling with alcohol use, it may be necessary to seek additional support. This could include enrolling them in a substance abuse program, attending counseling sessions, or participating in a support group. Addressing these issues early on can help prevent future incidents and set your teen on a healthier path.Bridgette Carabajal
I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Hanchey on two occasions, and each interaction has been nothing short of exceptional. His professional demeanor, coupled with the outstanding support from his staff significantly alleviated any anxieties I had. I am thoroughly satisfied with the outcomes achieved. Should the need for legal representation arise in the future, Mr. Hanchey will undoubtedly be my first choice.
Lucas Garcia
Mark Hanchey has been excellent. I spoke with him last minute before my court date. He still showed up to court with me and was very caring and helped me before I had even officially hired him. I felt like he cared about me and my case. He knows his craft very well and you can tell that the judge and other attorneys respect him when he is in court. He is also very kind. I recommend him to anyone. An excellent attorney.
Renee Braucht
I had an amazing experience with the Hanchey Law Firm! Mr. Hanchey got me the absolute best result I could have imagined for my case. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve heard, “wow, you must have had a really good lawyer!” when discussing the result. I live far from Colorado Springs, but I will forever make the trip for this firm when I need them! Highly recommend!
David Walker
I have needed to use a lawyer a couple of times over the past several years and have used Mark Hanchey. He is a very down to earth person who has always treated me with dignity and has always been straight forward. His staff has also been professional and friendly. Each time I used Mark Hanchey the result was a positive one. I also think his fees are reasonable. I cant say enough good about Mark Hanchey.