Arrested for DUI in Colorado?

If you or a loved one has recently been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Colorado, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about what lies ahead. A DUI arrest affects not only your immediate freedom but also your driving privileges, your employment, and your personal reputation. At Tiftickjian Law Firm, P.C., we provide the focused legal guidance and advocacy you need to begin restoring control over your situation.

Led by Jay Tiftickjian, one of Colorado’s most respected DUI defense attorneys, our team is committed to helping clients throughout the state navigate the complex legal system and pursue the best possible outcome.

Understanding Colorado DUI Law: Two Cases in One

A DUI arrest in Colorado initiates two separate proceedings:

• A criminal case in County Court
• An administrative license action through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

While your criminal charges are handled in court, the DMV controls your driving privileges. In most cases, you have only seven (7) calendar days from the date of arrest to request a DMV hearing. Failure to act within this window will result in an automatic revocation of your driver’s license.

Request a DMV hearing → (Colorado DMV)
Learn about license hearings →

License Revocation and Administrative Penalties

In many DUI cases, the Colorado DMV may revoke your driver’s license based on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or refusal to submit to a chemical test. For a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or a refusal, you could face:

• Nine-month license revocation (for first offense)
• Mandatory ignition interlock device installation
• Required alcohol education or treatment programs

These consequences are independent of your court case. Even if your criminal charges are reduced or dismissed, administrative penalties may still apply.

Colorado DUI penalties overview →

Criminal DUI Penalties: Jail Time, Fines, Probation, and More

Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1301, DUI and DWAI convictions carry mandatory penalties. For many offenses, jail time is required by law—even for first-time offenders, depending on the circumstances. If your BAC was over 0.200%, or if you have prior DUI convictions, the penalties become significantly more severe.

Multiple convictions can also result in a felony DUI charge under Colorado law. A fourth DUI offense is charged as a Class 4 felony, which may result in a prison sentence.

Learn about felony DUI in Colorado →

Tailored DUI Defense Strategies

At Tiftickjian Law Firm, we take a strategic and personalized approach to every DUI case. We begin by carefully reviewing:

• The traffic stop and arrest process
• Police body cam or dash cam footage
• Blood or breath test procedures and results
• Your prior criminal or driving history
• Mitigating factors that may support a favorable resolution

Our law firm constructs a legal strategy based on your specific circumstances, identifying both legal defenses and opportunities for negotiation. In many cases, we are able to challenge the accuracy of chemical testing or raise constitutional issues regarding the stop, detention, or arrest.

Beyond the Courtroom: Reputation and Future Protection

We understand that a DUI charge can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. That’s why we not only defend your case in court, but also help you protect your reputation and future opportunities.

Our approach may include:

• Gathering letters of support or employment documentation
• Recommending early alcohol education or counseling
• Preparing mitigation materials for court presentations
• Working with experts in toxicology or accident reconstruction, when needed

Every decision we make is guided by your goals—and by our commitment to obtaining the best result for you and your family.

Why Choose Tiftickjian Law Firm, P.C.?

Jay Tiftickjian is a nationally recognized authority in DUI defense. He has been voted Best DUI Lawyer in Colorado by Law Week Colorado for a decade, featured on the cover of Super Lawyers Magazine, and trusted by fellow attorneys for legal training and continuing education. Our firm has successfully handled DUI cases for doctors, lawyers, athletes, educators, and professionals from every walk of life.

We are proud to be recognized by:

• Best Lawyers® / U.S. News & World Report – Tier 1 DUI Defense Law Firm
• Colorado Super Lawyers (2010–2025)
• Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent® Rating
• Colorado Criminal Defense Bar – Former President
• Former Colorado Deputy District Attorney

Read client testimonials →
Explore DUI case results →

Schedule a Confidential DUI Defense Consultation Today

You don’t have to face a DUI charge alone. We are ready to stand by your side and fight for your rights, your license, and your future. The sooner you contact us, the more options we have to help.

📞 Call Tiftickjian Law Firm, P.C. at (303) 384-5280
or
Request a consultation online →