Gunnison DUI Attorney

Being charged with a DUI in Gunnison is stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Brent Martin and The Martin Law Firm provide skilled, personalized defense strategies designed to minimize penalties and protect your rights. From your first consultation to case resolution, our team is committed to standing by your side.

Why Hire Brent Martin for DUI Defense

Brent Martin has spent more than 20 years defending clients in Colorado courts. He has handled thousands of criminal cases, from DUIs to violent crimes, and has tried hundreds of cases in front of a judge or jury. Brent Martin takes the time to explain the process in simple terms, answer your questions, and provide personal attention to every client. His experience in trial work gives you a strong defense. With Brent on your side, you have an attorney who works hard to protect your rights and your future.

What Counts as a DUI or Alcohol Violation in Colorado?

A DUI or alcohol offense in Colorado happens when a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is affected by alcohol or drugs. This can include having a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or more, underage drinking and driving, or driving under the influence of controlled substances. Refusing a chemical test can also result in DUI charges. These offenses carry serious consequences such as fines, jail time, and loss of driving privileges. An attorney like Brent Martin can explain what qualifies as a DUI, help you understand the charges, and fight to protect your rights throughout the case.

Types of DUI Cases We Handle in Gunnison

In Gunnison, DUI charges come in many forms, and The Martin Law Firm handles them all. This includes first, second, and third DUI offenses, underage DUI, DUID, and DWAI charges. We also defend clients accused of DUI involving drugs like prescription medication or marijuana, serious injuries, and out-of-state DUIs. The consequences can be severe, from fines to jail or license loss. Brent Martin provides personal attention and experienced legal guidance, helping clients understand each step of the case while fighting aggressively to protect their rights and achieve the most favorable results possible.

How DUI Cases Move Through Criminal Court

The criminal court process for a DUI starts with an arraignment, where you are informed of the charges and asked to enter a plea. Pretrial hearings may be scheduled to review evidence, challenge charges, or discuss possible settlements. Some cases proceed to trial, while others are resolved with plea agreements. Penalties for DUI can include fines, jail, or losing your driving privileges. Brent Martin works with clients through every step, explaining what to expect and providing strong legal defense. His experience in DUI cases helps clients protect their rights and work toward the best possible outcome.

DUI & DWAI Consequences in Colorado

In Colorado, DUI and DWAI charges carry penalties that can affect your life for years. Fines, jail time, probation, and losing your license are common consequences. Repeat offenses or cases involving accidents and injuries often come with stricter punishments. DWAI charges may carry lighter penalties, but they still appear on your record and can cause problems later. Brent Martin guides clients through the legal process, explains the potential results, and provides experienced defense.

Colorado Express Consent Hearings

After a DUI arrest in Colorado, one of the most urgent steps is requesting an Express Consent Hearing through the DMV. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether you keep your driving privileges. You only have seven days from your arrest to make this request, so acting quickly is critical.

You can request the hearing online through Colorado’s DMV system or in person at a DMV office. Online, the process is straightforward: go to Driver/ID Services, select “Request a Hearing,” enter your information, and submit. You’ll receive an automatic confirmation immediately, and within 24 to 48 hours, a temporary driving permit will be issued if your license is valid. The DMV will then mail or email your official hearing date, typically scheduled within 60 days.

Requesting the Officer’s Presence

One of the most important decisions you can make at this stage is requesting that the arresting officer attend the hearing. We highly recommend doing this. By law, the officer who signed your express consent affidavit must appear if requested. Their presence allows your attorney to question them under oath about the stop, the arrest, and the testing procedures, which is a critical opportunity to challenge the evidence. If the officer fails to appear after being requested, your license cannot be revoked at that hearing.

Officers can also be subpoenaed if necessary, and the Martin Law Firm can guide you through this process to ensure all steps are properly followed. Failing to request a hearing or failing to request the officer’s presence can put you at a serious disadvantage. Our team knows the stakes and helps clients use every available tool to protect their driving privileges.

Consult With Our Gunnison DUI Lawyer Today

Facing a DUI charge can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. Brent Martin at The Martin Law Firm is available to meet with you in person or virtually and provide strong legal defense. He will answer your questions and guide you through the process. Call (970) 730-4354 today to set up a free consultation and get the help you need.