The consequences of a DUI conviction in Colorado extend beyond legal penalties. On top of legal penalties such as fines, license suspension or revocation, and even jail time, those convicted of a DUI in Colorado face other penalties as well. In addition to these penalties, a DUI conviction can also have long-term collateral consequences such as difficulty obtaining employment, increased insurance rates, and a tarnished criminal record.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) enforces its own set of penalties, including the suspension or revocation of the driver's license. To reinstate the license, the driver may be required to take a Colorado drug and alcohol educational course that aims to educate them on the dangers of driving under the influence and the potential consequences of such behavior. It's worth noting that these courses may still be required even if the driver's criminal charges are dismissed. As such, they are an essential part of the overall process for dealing with a DUI charge in Colorado.
Drivers should familiarize themselves with the full range of penalties they may face if convicted of a DUI and take the necessary steps to address the issue in order to move forward with their lives. In this article, we provide information on how to locate level 2 alcohol classes nearby, as well as the requirements to complete them.
What Do DUI Classes In Colorado Include?
Colorado's DUI treatment program is comprised of two components:
- Level II alcohol education (or Level I class for minors charged with a DUI and a BAC between 0.02 and 0.08)
- Drug or alcohol-related therapy
The Level II program is group-based and aims to educate participants about the risks and problems associated with drug and alcohol use while offering strategies to minimize these risks. It covers a broad range of topics, including the medical, legal, and social implications of substance use, the signs of addiction, and the social costs of drug and alcohol use. Level I education is designed for minors with a BAC between 0.02 and 0.08, and is 12 hours in length, covering similar topics as Level II.
The therapy component of the DUI treatment program in Colorado is intended to explore the underlying causes of substance abuse and addiction, as well as co-occurring disorders. It also aims to establish a supportive network of peers and family members, while addressing the impact of substance abuse on others. While it is not as comprehensive or effective as programs such as AA or ALANON, the therapy component encourages introspection, making it more personalized than the Level II education program.
To determine the number of therapy hours required, individuals must first undergo an alcohol evaluation conducted by the probation department in their jurisdiction. The evaluation assigns a "track," ranging from A-D, which corresponds to the number of therapy hours required. The required therapy hours are as follows:
- Track A: 42 hours
- Track B: 52 hours
- Track C: 68 hours
- Track D: 86 hours.
Colorado DUI Level II Education Requirements
Completion of Level II education is a requirement for those convicted of a DUI in Colorado, involving a total of 12 two-hour classes, which equates to 24 hours of instruction. Participants are not allowed to attend more than one class per week, so completing Level II without missing any classes will take 12 weeks.
If the drug and alcohol evaluation conducted by the probation department deems that Level II therapy is necessary, they will require the convicted individual to attend therapy once their DUI educational course is completed. Depending on the “track” the individual is assigned to, they could be required to complete anywhere between 42 and 86+ hours of therapy before they can receive a new license from the DMV.
To be eligible for early or general reinstatement of their license, the DMV mandates that individuals complete an evaluation and follow the recommended course of action if their blood alcohol concentration was .150 or higher at the time of driving or if they refused to comply with the chemical test. Typically conducted by the probation department, completing track D is necessary before submitting the reinstatement packet to the DMV. If the criminal case is dismissed or the charges are beaten at trial, individuals must still complete the required education and therapy, and in this case, the evaluation must be conducted by a state-certified treatment provider.
Who Is Required To Attend Level II Education For DUI In Colorado?
Level II education is a common requirement in many DUI cases, particularly for drivers with multiple DUIs, those who have refused tests, or have committed offenses with a high blood alcohol concentration. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles mandates Level II education for drivers falling under the following categories:
- Within the past five years, the driver has been convicted of two or more DUI violations
- A driver has been convicted of three or more DUI violations in their lifetime
- A driver’s license is revoked for a blood alcohol content of .15 or higher
- A driver’s license is revoked for having multiple BAC levels above .08
- A driver who has refused to take a roadside breathalyzer or other form of chemical tests
How To Find A State-Certified Level II DUI Education Course
Attending a state-certified Level II DUI education course is crucial if you have been convicted of a DUI in Colorado. These programs are specifically designed to educate drivers about the hazards and consequences of driving under the influence. Attending a state-certified program guarantees that the education and therapy you receive meet the state's requirements and are recognized by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Participating in a non-certified program can result in wasted time and money, and may not fulfill the requirements for reinstating your driver's license. It's critical to verify the certification status of any program you plan to attend to ensure that you are getting the right education and therapy needed to comply with the state's regulations.
If you are looking for a state-certified treatment provider that offers Level 2 alcohol classes in the Colorado Springs area, you can access a list of alcohol education centers through the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration.
Contact A Colorado DUI Defense Attorney For More Information About Colorado DUI Classes
If you are facing a DUI charge in Colorado and require further information about Colorado DUI classes, it's crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced Colorado DUI defense attorney. A attorney can guide you through the legal system and help you enroll in a state-certified Level II education program. They can also provide you with the essential details about DMV requirements, track assignments, and evaluation completion, which are vital for reinstating your driver's license. With their expertise, they can assist you in reducing the penalties associated with a DUI conviction and safeguarding your rights during legal proceedings. Therefore, it's vital to consult with a qualified DUI defense attorney who has successfully defended clients facing similar charges.
