Search Criminal, Court, Public, Police, Traffic Records, Person Info and More!
Search Billions of Public Records
Always Getting Updated… From Top Notch Databases.
Fast Access… Search Records From All Over The Nation.
Colorado Criminal Records > Colorado DUI Records
Colorado DUI Records.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is legally defined as the act of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, any form of drugs (prescription, over-the-counter), or a mix of both in Colorado, as outlined by CRS 42-4-1301. The definition stands irrespective of the particular alcohol concentration in the driver’s breath or blood at the time of operation. Across the United States, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for adults driving non-commercial vehicles is commonly 0.08%, with stricter limits for commercial drivers and underage drivers, per Colorado state laws.
DUI laws in Colorado are rigorously enforced due to the substantial risk impaired driving poses to public safety. A DUI conviction in Colorado can result in severe legal consequences, including license suspension, monetary fines, and possible imprisonment, especially in cases involving prior offenses or elevated BAC levels. The penalties escalate with repeated offenses within specified time frames, highlighting the state’s commitment to deterring such dangerous behavior.
Searching for DUI Records in Colorado.
To locate DUI records in Colorado, follow these steps:
Identify the Relevant Jurisdiction: Colorado’s DUI records can be accessed through various state and county offices.
Check with Local Law Enforcement Agencies: Contact the local police department or sheriff’s office that handled the arrest. Some agencies may offer online portals for direct searching of DUI arrests. For instance, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) provides access to DUI records through its Internet Criminal History Check (ICHC) system.
Browse Court Records: DUI cases that go to court generate records that can often be accessed through local or state court systems. See example (Statewide Docket Search Tool and Denver Court)
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Contacting the Colorado DMV can provide access to full driving records, which include DUI charges.
Online Search Tools: Several third-party services aggregate public records, including DUI records, for a fee. These services can be useful for those looking to gather comprehensive information quickly.
What a DUI Could Cost: Fines, License Suspension, Jail Time.
The legal consequences of a DUI in Colorado are significant and vary based on the specifics of the offense.
Fines and Costs: In Colorado, fines for DUI convictions can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on factors such as the offense’s severity and the driver’s history. First-time offenders may face fines from $500 to $2,000 or more. Additionally, offenders might need to bear the costs of mandatory equipment, like the installation of an ignition interlock device, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver’s BAC exceeds a predetermined limit.
License Suspension or Revocation: License suspension is a typical penalty for DUI convictions in Colorado. The suspension period can vary depending on whether it is a first offense or a repeated violation. First-time offenders may face a suspension ranging from 90 days to several months, while repeated offenses can lead to longer suspensions or even permanent revocation, as governed by CRS 42-4-1301.1.
Jail Time: Incarceration is a possible consequence of DUI convictions in Colorado. For first-time offenses, mandatory jail time might range from 24 hours to several days, while more severe or habitual offenses can result in imprisonment lasting months or even years, as per the state’s DUI statutes.
Further Penalties: Beyond these primary penalties, DUI convictions in Colorado often include mandatory alcohol education, treatment programs, community service, and probation. Such convictions also typically result in higher auto insurance premiums, which may lead to policy cancellations.
What's in DUI Records? Arrest Reports, Court Records, and Judgments.
DUI records in Colorado consist of various documents generated during the legal processing of a DUI incident. These records typically begin with an arrest report, which provides a detailed account of the event from the perspective of law enforcement. This report usually includes the circumstances leading to the arrest, descriptions of any field sobriety tests conducted, and the results of breathalyzer or other chemical tests, governed by CRS 42-4-1301.
Court records are another crucial component of DUI documentation in Colorado. These records trace the case’s progression through the judicial system, documenting charges, motions, hearing dates, and court rulings. The final judgment or disposition, including any fines, jail time, and other penalties, is also recorded, detailing the sentencing and any conditions such as license suspension or mandatory use of an ignition interlock device.
Law Enforcement Agencies Handling DUI Arrest Record Requests in Colorado.
Accessing DUI arrest information through sheriff or police databases depends on the agency’s protocols. Many agencies provide online databases that the public can use to view arrest records, including DUI incidents, while others require manual requests. The Colorado Division of Criminal Justice, for example, offers extensive resources and reports on DUI offenses in the state, highlighting trends and enforcement priorities.
Obtaining DUI-Related Documents from Court Records.
To access court documents related to DUI cases:
Select the Relevant Court Database: Determine which court handled the DUI case, as charges are usually tried in criminal courts, varying by jurisdiction.
Navigate the Court’s Website: Court system has digitized their records, making them accessible online. For those without online access, visiting the court clerk’s office may be necessary.
Requesting Documents: If online access is unavailable, you may need to visit the court in person or submit a written request.