DWAI
DWAI Attorney in Colorado Springs
Defending Clients Facing Impaired Driving Charges in El Paso County
At Aviso Law, we understand that facing DWAI charges can feel overwhelming and uncertain. Our team of dedicated attorneys brings a down-to-earth approach to defending our clients, combining thorough legal knowledge with genuine compassion and straightforward communication.
We break away from the stereotypical law firm experience; our attorneys are more laid back and avoid using legal jargon or wearing suits (unless we’re in court), and we take time to listen to your story, explain your charges in clear terms, and develop defense strategies that make sense for your unique situation. Because facing these charges can be so daunting, we want you to be comfortable working with our attorneys.
Reach out to our Colorado Springs impaired driving defense attorneys at (719) 356-5552.
DWAI vs. DUI: What’s the Difference?
In Colorado, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) differ primarily in the level of impairment and blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Under Colorado Revised Statute § 42-4-1301, a DUI is charged when a person drives with a BAC of 0.08% or higher or when they are substantially incapable of safely operating a vehicle due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
A DWAI, on the other hand, can be charged with a lower BAC of 0.05% to 0.08%, or when a person is affected by alcohol or drugs to the slightest degree, that makes them less able than ordinary to exercise clear judgment and physical control. The penalties for first-time offenses for each offense also reflect this distinction. However, both charges become more severe with subsequent offenses.
Is a DWAI a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
A DWAI charge can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on whether you have past convictions for DUIs or DWAIs. A first-time DWAI is a misdemeanor that is punishable by up to 180 days of incarceration and a fine of up to $500. Subsequent offenses are penalized as follows:
- Second-time offenses are misdemeanors punishable by 10 days to a year of incarceration and a fine of $600 to $1500.
- Third-time offenses are also misdemeanors but are punishable by 60 days to a year in jail and a $600 to $1500 fine.
- Fourth and subsequent offenses are Class 4 felonies punishable by two to six years of incarceration and three years of parole.
Benefit from Our Decades of Collective Experience
At Aviso Law, we believe in building real relationships with the people we represent, taking the time to answer questions and address concerns without the usual legal industry formality. When you're facing DWAI charges, having an attorney who speaks your language and genuinely cares about your case can make all the difference in navigating the road ahead.
Our professional yet approachable style has earned the trust of clients throughout El Paso County. Our past clients laud our attorneys for being formidable and knowledgeable professionals, and our experience with the local court systems benefits our clients’ defenses.
Let us help you defend against DWAI or DUI drug charges in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. Call (719) 356-5552.
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Clients First
Every attorney will tell you they put their clients first. That is true for Aviso Law but it’s how we go about it that sets up apart. We understand the difference between being prepared and aggressive in courtrooms, while being understanding and pragmatic in client meetings. We believe in being realistic as well as easy to work with through all the phases of your case, both in and out of court; this saves you money and time while still receiving the service you deserve with the goal of achieving desired results.
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Proven Success
To us, success isn’t measured by the years we’ve spent behind a desk but by the careers we’ve built, the contacts we’ve made, and the thousands of clients we’ve served to protect jobs, families, education, and reputations. We developed our careers in Colorado’s military and civil courts, successfully defending clients from all walks of life. We come highly rated by our clients and have received professional recognition for our work.
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Breaking the Mold
We’re not your typical law firm. We don’t wear fancy suits (unless we have to in court) and we don’t hide behind big imposing desks. Reflective on our military roots, we strive to serve. We understand the legal process can be threatening and worrisome, which is why we work with our clients to get results. We aim to be respectful, diligent, and cost-effective while practicing the highest standards of legal representation.