What kind of life might I have in five years if convicted of DUI?

In many cases, a felony conviction for DUI could result in your spending the next five years in jail. According to a 9Wants to Know investigation, however, one-third of individuals with felony DUI convictions stayed out of prison.

Instead of incarceration, you may have a chance to attend a substance abuse treatment program and receive a sentence of probation or community service. Depending on the type of sentence you receive, your outlook on life in five years could have a different meaning.

What does an alternative sentence involve?

Because of overcrowding in Colorado’s prison system, certain defendants may request an alternative sentence. If you qualify, a judge may sentence you to house arrest and require you to wear an electronic monitor.

Your sentence conditions may include regular attendance at a program to resolve addiction issues. You may also need to attend classes designed to help you take responsibility for the offense and understand the circumstances that led you to it.

What else might affect my life after a DUI conviction?

The judge may require you to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. You could also see a significant increase in your vehicle insurance premiums. As noted by U.S. News, you may not need to worry about an employment application asking if you have a record of a felony conviction. Colorado officially became a “ban the box” state in 2019 for companies with 11 or more workers.

The duration of a DUI sentence may seem like a long time regardless of the conditions, but it may pass quickly if you dedicate yourself to meeting all the conditions set by the judge. By showing the court that you have a responsible and positive attitude regarding your rehabilitation, you may not find yourself serving any time in prison.