Our Spanish residents are often at a distinct disadvantage when stopped and questioned by law enforcement.
The Spanish population in Colorado is more than 1.1 million, the eight largest in the nation. These residents are at a significant disadvantage for a number of reasons:
Our Fort Collins and Brighton Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer believes everyone deserves immediate access to experienced legal help. That’s why he offers free and confidential consultations to discuss your rights.
When a police officer stops a Spanish-speaking resident for any reason, it’s important he requests a Spanish speaker to come to the scene if language is a barrier to understanding and compliance. When he fails to make an effort to accommodate a Spanish speaker, this is a legitimate issue for defense. Body camera or cruiser camera footage may be used to show that a defendant attempted to comply with the requests and directions of law enforcement, but simply could not understand the officer. It’s equally important that a defendant reach out as soon as possible for help from an experienced DUI defense attorney in Fort Collins or Brighton. The progressive nature of sanctions can quickly snowball against a defendant who does not understand the charges, the criminal and administrative court process, or the consequences of a subsequent conviction. New charges of driving with a suspended license, or driving without a license after a DUI conviction, are among the most common and serious consequences in such cases.
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It’s important to understand that those charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while ability impaired (DWAI) must fight administrative sanctions, including suspension or revocation of their driving rights, by requesting a DMV administrative hearing within 7 days of arrest, or within 7 days of blood-test results in cases where a blood draw was conducted. This is in addition to defending against the criminal charges in court.
We know far too many defendants quickly plead guilty to put an embarrassing episode behind them. We believe this is a mistake, given the significant likelihood of winning a reduction or dismissal of the charges and the very serious consequences that come with re-arrest for another alcohol offense or for driving without a license. However, this is particularly true for our Spanish-speaking residents, who may face even more serious consequences and may not even understand their options or the likelihood of significant future penalties.
Undocumented residents who are convicted of DUI are at highest risk of immigration (ICE) detention and potential deportation. Each year, ICE arrests an estimated 80,000 undocumented immigrants with DUI charges and convictions, according to federal data. However, an arrest does not always have to lead to deportation. Even when ICE is notified of your presence in the country, seeking the advice and guidance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer is the best thing you can do to protect your rights and your future.
Even those in the country legally can face additional sanctions for a DUI conviction, particularly aggravated DUI. The progressive nature of Colorado’s DUI laws make it essential to fight any criminal charge against you. Convictions for deportable offenses can result in loss of your green card and an Order for Removal. A conviction may also impact your request for permanent residency or citizenship. Our Fort Collins DUI Defense Attorney represents clients in Brighton and throughout Adams and Weld counties, as well as Larimer County and the Fort Collins area, including Loveland, Berthound, Estes Park, Johnstown, Timnath, Wellington and Windsor.
Call 970-592-2805 for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
