The uniform commands respect. The oath demands honor. But on an off-duty evening, one poor decision can spiral into something much bigger—a career-threatening charge. If you’re a service member in northern Colorado arrested for DUI in Loveland, you’re not just up against civilian consequences. You’re facing command scrutiny, reputation damage, and possible separation from service. And it happens fast.
A skilled Loveland military DUI lawyer can intervene early, defend aggressively, and help you protect everything you’ve built. At The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC, we understand that military service amplifies the risks and consequences of any criminal charge. That’s why we take military DUI cases seriously.
Attorney Sean Harrell offers strategic, personalized legal defense for active-duty, reserve, and former service members. With local insight, award-winning courtroom skills, and deep respect for the military community, he helps clients navigate state and military justice systems with clarity and control.
Why Choose The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC as My Military DUI Lawyer?
We understand that driving under the influence (DUI) and driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) charges don’t just threaten your license; they threaten your livelihood, your reputation, and your ability to serve. Here’s what we offer every military client:
- Personalized strategy. We tailor our approach to your goals, your command structure, and your specific charges.
- Flat-fee and transparent pricing. No surprise bills, and no pressure.
- 24/7 availability. Legal emergencies don’t happen on a schedule.
- Free consultations. You should know your options before making any commitments.
- Award-winning legal representation. Recognized by National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
- Deep Colorado roots. We know Loveland courts, judges, and prosecutors, and we know how to get things done here.
We are here when you need a military DUI lawyer who will treat you with respect, listen without judgment, and fight for you with passion and confidence.
Understanding Colorado’s DUID Law: What Counts As a Violation?
In Colorado, DUI is not limited to alcohol. Under Colorado law, police can arrest you for operating a vehicle while “under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.”
That includes:
- Prescribed medications—such as Ambien, Adderall, benzodiazepines, or opioids;
- THC or marijuana—even though recreational cannabis is legal in Colorado, it’s illegal to drive with more than five nanograms of active THC per milliliter of blood; and
- Illicit drugs—cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, or unauthorized use of another person’s prescription.
Unlike alcohol, there’s no breath test for drugs. Officers rely on blood tests and Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), whose testimony can be contested by a knowledgeable Loveland military DUI lawyer.
What Happens When Police Charge Military with DUI or DUID in Loveland?
For civilians, a DUI or DUID under Colorado law is serious enough. Colorado makes it illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or under the influence of drugs. For commercial drivers, the threshold is 0.04%. And for drivers under 21, the state enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy. If police arrest you for DUI, you may face:
- Immediate license suspension,
- Criminal charges filed in county court,
- Fines, community service, and possible jail time, and
- Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs.
But for service members, that’s only half the battle. Service members may also be subject to military administrative or disciplinary action, including nonjudicial punishment under Article 15 of the UCMJ, reprimands, or even discharge proceedings. A qualified military DUI lawyer understands the dual systems at play and how to minimize fallout in both.
Civilian DUI vs. Military Consequences: What You Need to Know
Even if your civilian case is resolved favorably, your command may still take independent action. Unlike civilian employers, military leadership doesn’t need a conviction to impose punishment. Arrest alone can lead to internal investigation or disciplinary proceedings. Consequences may include:
- Reduction in rank—especially for enlisted personnel or those within the first few years of service;
- Loss of security clearance—which can affect your MOS, billet, or deployment eligibility;
- Bar to reenlistment or promotion—retention boards and evaluations take DUI or DUID records into account during; and
- Separation proceedings—especially for multiple offenses or if the DUI or DUID involved injury, damage, or misconduct.
These consequences can derail a promising military career. That’s why hiring an experienced attorney like Sean as early as possible can mean the difference between recovery and permanent damage.
How Can Military DUI Lawyers Help Me?
If you’re currently searching for a military DUI lawyer near me, you’re likely overwhelmed by stress, confusion, and fear of what comes next. Here’s what Sean can do to help:
- Challenge the stop. Was there probable cause? Did the officer conduct the stop legally and appropriately?
- Scrutinize BAC testing. From calibration issues to chain of custody, your attorney will review every detail of the breath or blood test.
- Negotiate for reduced charges. We can often negotiate reduced DUI charges to DWAI, which carries lighter penalties.
- Coordinate with military counsel. A strong civilian defense can bolster your position with command and mitigate UCMJ action.
- Guide communication with command. We’ll help you prepare statements, respond appropriately, and present your case in the best light.
- Protect your long-term record. If this is your first or third offense, we’ll fight to keep it from defining your career or civilian future.
With both your military and civilian standing on the line, you need a lawyer who understands how the systems interact and how to navigate them precisely.
I’m a Service Member: What Should I Do After a DUI or DUID Arrest?
Taking the right steps after an arrest can protect your legal case, license, and career. Here’s what to do immediately:
- Do not speak to law enforcement. You only need to provide identification and insurance. Politely decline to answer questions without your lawyer present.
- Request a DMV hearing. Colorado requires a hearing to contest your administrative license suspension. You only have seven days to request.
- Notify your command appropriately. However, do not make formal statements until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
- Document everything. Note the timeline, location, officer’s behavior, and your condition. These details can be critical to your defense.
- Contact an experienced lawyer immediately. You don’t want to miss deadlines, evidence, or opportunities for early resolution.
Acting quickly after a DUI arrest is essential. The sooner your attorney gets involved, the more options you’ll have, both in court and with command.
Looking for a Military DUI Lawyer Near Me? Call The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC Today
You’ve built your life around duty. One charge shouldn’t destroy everything you’ve earned. Whether this is your first offense or you’re facing enhanced penalties due to injury, prior record, or on-base implications, don’t wait. Get the legal representation you need to protect your future, both in and out of uniform.
Sean Harrell and our team are committed to defending military service members facing DUI charges in Loveland and across Northern Colorado. We bring fierce advocacy, local insight, and military-aware strategy to every case we take. Call today for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted Loveland military DUI lawyer. Let’s get your career and peace of mind back on track.
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