Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Attorneys

Guidance for Out of State DUI’s

October 10, 2016

Getting a DUI, no matter what the circumstance, is not a good situation to be in. Even worse is when you are driving outside of your home state. Here’s some information about the process if this happens to you. When you find yourself in a situation like this, the law firm of Murphy & Price is on your side.

Interstate Driver’s License Compact

First, it’s important to note that the same general rules apply across the country. The legal blood alcohol level is 0.08. 45 states in the US participate in the Interstate Driver’s License Compact. This mean that if you get a DUI in Texas, but you are from Colorado, you could be dealing with charges both from Colorado and Texas. Also, if you had a prior DUI in Colorado and then one in Texas, Colorado would consider it a second offense. Don’t freak out entirely though, the visiting state cannot completely take away your license.

An Exception

Both the home state and the arresting state need to have the same laws regarding the offense for the penalty to count. As with texting while driving, it is illegal in Colorado, but it is not in Arizona. But the driver will need to pay Colorado fines for this offense. Although, this might not hold true with a larger offense such as a DUI.

Colorado Residents

If a resident of Colorado receives a DUI in another state the following consequences apply:

  • They will lose driving privileges in that state.
  • They are required to pay local fines and serve any jail time required before leaving that state.
  • They will receive a summons for a court date and an arrest warrant will be issued if the date is skipped.
  • Will face consequences in Colorado.

If you are a Colorado resident and find yourself in need of help, contact the DUI lawyers in Colorado, Murphy & Price and they will guide you through this situation.

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We know that one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why our attorneys are committed to offering advice tailored to the legal needs and goals of our clients. We place a premium on building long-standing relationships and on achieving the goals of our clients in a reasonable and timely manner. Contact us to find a lawyer for your situation.