Serving Aurora, Denver Metro & Colorado | 15+ Years of DUI Defense
Aurora DUI Attorney - Aggressive Defense for DUI and DWAI Charges
Being arrested for DUI in Aurora is a serious situation that can affect nearly every aspect of your life. From the moment you are charged, you may be facing jail time, a suspended driver’s license, costly fines, mandatory alcohol education, and a permanent criminal record that can impact your employment and reputation.
DUI and DWAI cases in Aurora are prosecuted aggressively in both Adams County and Arapahoe County courts. Penalties increase quickly if you have prior offenses, and even a first-time DUI can carry significant consequences. In addition to the criminal case, you must also deal with the Colorado DMV, where strict deadlines apply to protect your driving privileges.
Working with an experienced Aurora DUI attorney can make a critical difference. A strong DUI defense begins with a careful review of the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing procedures. Breath and blood results are not always reliable, and mistakes by law enforcement can lead to reduced charges—or even dismissal.
At The Lawrence Law Firm, we represent clients throughout Aurora and the Denver Metro area in all types of DUI and DWAI cases. With extensive experience in local courts, we understand how prosecutors handle these cases and how to build strategic, case-specific defenses. When your future is on the line, having the right defense attorney matters.
Why People Hire Us In Aurora DUI Cases
DUI cases in Aurora are often handled in Arapahoe County or Adams County, and each court can approach these cases differently. Working with an attorney who regularly appears in both courts means your defense is built with those local practices in mind—not just general DUI law. That local familiarity can impact everything from negotiations to how your case is presented.
Our firm is based in Aurora and focuses on DUI, DWAI, and drug-related driving offenses. We take a practical, strategic approach to each case—closely reviewing the stop, testing procedures, and evidence to identify opportunities to challenge or reduce the charges. We also believe strong legal defense should be accessible—offering affordable, transparent fees without cutting corners or compromising the quality of representation.
A DUI does not just affect your court case—it can impact your license, finances, and daily life. We guide clients through both the criminal case and related DMV issues so nothing is overlooked. If you are facing a DUI in Aurora, having a clear plan early on can make a meaningful difference in how your case is resolved.
Understanding DUI and DWAI Charges in Aurora
In Colorado, driving under the influence is not limited to alcohol. You can be arrested for DUI based on alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, prescription medication, or a combination of substances.
The most common impaired driving offenses in Aurora include:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
A driver may be charged with driving under the influence if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if they are substantially impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. DUI is the more serious of the two primary alcohol-related offenses.
The penalties for a DUI can be severe. For more information concerning potential jail sanctions, please see our DUI sentencing and penalties guide.
DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired)
Colorado DWAI applies when a driver’s BAC is between 0.05% and 0.079%, or when their ability to operate a vehicle is impaired to any degree. Although considered a lesser charge than DUI, a DWAI conviction still results in a criminal record and significant penalties.
While a DWAI is similar to a DUI, it does have significant difference. These difference are detailed in our DUI vs. DWAI article.
DUI-D (Driving Under the Influence of Drugs)
DUI-D involves impairment caused by marijuana, illegal drugs, or certain prescription medications. Colorado law allows a “permissible inference” of impairment at 5 nanograms of THC in whole blood, but this does not automatically prove guilt—these cases often depend heavily on officer observations and testing procedures. These cases often involve unique legal and scientific issues, which we explain in more detail on our Colorado DUID defense page.
Underage Drinking and Driving (UDD)
Drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with UDD for a BAC of 0.02% or higher. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to criminal charges, license consequences, and long-term impacts on a young person’s record.
Each of these charges carries different penalties, license consequences, and long-term impacts. An experienced Aurora DUI attorney can evaluate the specific allegations in your case and begin building a defense strategy immediately.
Request a Free Consultation
Speak directly with an Aurora DUI attorney about your case. We’ll review your situation, answer your legal questions, and explain your options — all at no cost and with no obligation.
Penalties for DUI and DWAI in Aurora
The penalties you face in Aurora depend on a variety of factors. These include if it it is your first or repeat offense, the actions that caused police to contact you, your BAC, and the time between offense. Mitigation is also crucial, this would be something like getting into classes or performing well on pretrial supervision. The overall sentencing structure for DUIs in Colorado is:
5 days to 1 year in jail
$600 to $1,000 fine
48 to 96 hours of community service
12 DMV points
9-month license suspension
Alcohol education and treatment
Possible Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
10 days to 1 year in jail (mandatory minimum)
$600 to $1,500 in fines
48 to 120 hours of community service
1-year license revocation
IID for 2 years
Alcohol monitoring and extended probation
60 days to 1 year in jail
Probation up to 4 years
2-year license revocation
Community service and mandatory treatment
Electronic monitoring or SCRAM device
Classified as a Class 4 Felony
2 to 6 years in prison
$2,000 to $500,000 in fines
2-year license revocation
Permanent criminal record impact
2 to 180 days in jail
$200 to $500 in fines
8 DMV points
24 to 48 hours of community service
The penalties you face will depend heavily on whether this is a first offense or a repeat offense. You can explore more detailed information about specific charges, including first DUI offenses, second DUI offenses, third DUI offenses, and felony DUI cases in Colorado, to better understand what to expect.
DWAI may carry lighter penalties, but it still results in a criminal conviction that can impact your employment, housing, and auto insurance rates. For a complete guide on possible sanctions, see our Colorado DUI sentencing and penalties guide.
DMV Consequences After a DUI in Aurora
A DUI arrest in Aurora will involve the Colorado Express Consent Statute. This law requires a driver to submit to chemical testing of their blood or breath.
Also, it triggers more than just a criminal case — it also starts a separate administrative process with the Colorado DMV that can impact your ability to drive almost immediately. In many cases, your license can be suspended or revoked before your court case is resolved, making it critical to act quickly to protect your driving privileges.
After an arrest, you typically have only 7 days to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension. If you do not request a hearing within that window, the DMV will automatically move forward with suspending your license. The length of the suspension depends on the charge and your prior history, and many drivers are required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) to regain limited driving privileges.
Because the DMV process is separate from the criminal case, it requires its own strategy. Evidence from the stop, chemical testing, and officer reports can all be used at the hearing. Working with an experienced Aurora DUI attorney can help you challenge the suspension, navigate reinstatement requirements, and protect your ability to drive while your case is pending.
For a more detailed explanation of how the license process works, see our guides on the Colorado Express Consent law and what happens with your license after a DUI.
Common Defenses in Aurora DUI Cases
We develop defense strategies based on the unique facts of each case. Below are some of the most effective DUI defenses we explore:
Unlawful Traffic Stop
If police did not have a valid legal reason to pull you over, any evidence gathered afterward may be suppressed. Valid reasons typically involve weaving, running a stop sign, anonymous tips, and other traffic violations.
Improper Field Sobriety Tests
These tests must follow specific guidelines. Poor administration or roadside conditions can make them unreliable. SFST tests in Colorado have several issues, and a DUI defense lawyer can look into these to determine if they are accurate or not.
Faulty Breath or Blood Test
Breathalyzers and lab results can be inaccurate due to improper calibration, contamination, or human error. It is important to look at the timing and calibrations of the machines used as well as the chain of custody of any test.
Violation of Your Rights
If law enforcement failed to inform you of your rights or denied you access to legal counsel, we may be able to suppress key evidence.
No Proof of Impairment
In DWAI and marijuana DUI cases, we may argue that there is insufficient evidence of actual impairment, especially if there were no driving errors or erratic behavior. This is especially important in DWAI cases involving drugs.
What Courts handle an Aurora DUI?
Because Aurora spans multiple jurisdictions, it is important to understand how local courts operate. Learn more about cases handled in Arapahoe County DUI court and Adams County DUI court.
Adams County Court: Handles misdemeanor DUI and DWAI cases filed under state law.
Arapahoe County Court: Handles DUIs filed under Colorado state law and all felony DUI cases.
The DUI court process generally includes:
Arraignment – Where you are formally advised of the charges
Pretrial Hearings – Where we may negotiate for dismissal, a reduced charge, or an alternative sentence
Motions Hearings – Where we challenge the legality of the stop, arrest, or chemical testing
Trial – If no resolution is reached, we are prepared to fight your case in court
Aurora DUI Court Information
Adams County Court
- 1100 Judicial Center Dr, Brighton, CO 80601
- Get Directions.
Arapahoe County Justice Center
- 7325 S Potomac St
Centennial, CO 80112 - Get Direction.
Our Aurora DUI attorney appears in both courts and know how to approach each judge, prosecutor, and courtroom staff for the best chance at reducing or dismissing charges.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Aurora
After a DUI arrest in Aurora, your case typically begins with a traffic stop, investigation, and arrest based on suspected impairment. You may be taken into custody or issued a summons to appear in court, depending on the circumstances. Shortly after, you will have a first court date—usually in either Arapahoe County or Adams County, depending on where the stop occurred. This is the start of the criminal case, where charges are formally addressed and the process of reviewing evidence, filing motions, and negotiating the case begins.
At the same time, you are also dealing with a separate DMV process that affects your driver’s license. In most cases, you only have 7 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to challenge a license suspension under Colorado’s Express Consent law. Missing that deadline can result in an automatic suspension, even if your criminal case is still pending. Because these two processes move on separate tracks, addressing both early is critical to protecting your license and building a strong defense.
For a step-by-step breakdown of the legal process, visit our guide on the Colorado DUI court process.
Why Choose a Local Aurora DUI Attorney
Local experience matters. At The Lawrence Law Firm, we are based in Aurora and regularly appear before the same judges and prosecutors who will be handling your case. We know the city ordinances, the courtroom procedures, and how to position your case for the best possible outcome.
Our firm is committed to:
Aggressive defense of your constitutional rights
Minimizing jail time and penalties
Challenging license suspension and DMV actions
Providing one-on-one attorney access
Helping you navigate treatment and reinstatement options
Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI or a serious felony repeat offense, we are here to protect your future.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Charges in Colorado
Where are DUI cases handled in Aurora?
DUI cases in Aurora are typically handled in Arapahoe County or Adams County courts, depending on where the alleged offense occurred. The specific court can impact procedures, timelines, and how cases are approached.
Will I lose my license after a DUI in Aurora?
Possibly. A DUI triggers a separate DMV process, and you generally have 7 days to request a hearing to challenge a suspension. If you do not act within that timeframe, your license can be suspended automatically.
Can a DUI be reduced to a DWAI in Colorado?
In some cases, yes. Depending on the facts, evidence, and weaknesses in the case, a DUI charge may be negotiated down to a DWAI offense, which carries less severe penalties. However, this is not automatic and depends on the circumstances.
Will I go to jail for a first DUI in Aurora?
Jail is possible but not mandatory in many first-time DUI cases. Outcomes often depend on factors like BAC level, prior history, and the specific court handling the case.
Do I need an attorney for a DUI in Aurora?
You are not required to have an attorney, but DUI cases involve both criminal charges and license consequences. Having an experienced attorney can help you understand your options, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Speak With an Aurora DUI Lawyer Today
Time is not on your side after a DUI arrest. Your driver’s license, your criminal record, and even your freedom are all at risk. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of minimizing or avoiding penalties.
The Lawrence Law Firm offers free consultations and immediate representation. We’ll review the details of your arrest, explain your options, and build a tailored defense plan designed for the best possible result.
Whether you live in Aurora or were just passing through, we can help.
Call today to speak with an Aurora DUI attorney who will fight for your future.