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If you’re facing a habitual traffic offender (HTO) designation in Colorado, you’re also facing the possibility of losing your driver’s license for at least five years.

A mature female law enforcement officer stands by a vehicle she has stopped and takes the driver's license from a middle aged man
Multiple, major traffic violations can lead to HTO status in Colorado.

The Denver criminal defense attorneys at Wolf Law have helped many clients who were declared habitual traffic offenders or who were at risk for the HTO designation. Our lawyers understand the complex rules regarding HTO status, and we can help you determine the best solution for your unique circumstances.

Call Wolf Law today at 720-479-8574 for a free consultation or contact us online to tell us your story now.

How Does a Driver Become a Habitual Traffic Offender?

There are multiple situations that may lead a Colorado driver to be considered a habitual traffic offender:

  • A driver is convicted of at least three major traffic violations within a seven-year period.
  • A driver accumulates 10 or more traffic violation convictions within a five-year period, with each violation resulting in a DMV point assessment of four or more points.
  • A driver is convicted of at least 18 traffic convictions within a five-year period, with each violation resulting in a DMV point assessment of three or fewer points.

When it comes to the HTO designation in Colorado, traffic convictions are specific to major offenses, which include but are not limited to:

In some cases, traffic violations acquired in other states may apply to a Colorado driver’s total traffic convictions.

HTO Penalties in Colorado

A driver designated as a habitual traffic offender in Colorado will lose his or her license for a minimum of five years. Depending on the traffic violations in question, additional criminal penalties including fines and jail time may also apply.

Policeman stops woman driver to give her a traffic ticket for speeding.
An HTO designation in Colorado can have a driver losing his or her license for at least five years.

A habitual traffic offender who is convicted of driving with a suspended or revoked license can face up to 18 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

In addition to the corresponding penalties, an HTO designation and the loss of your driver’s license can have significant impacts on your daily routine. A revoked driver’s license can affect your ability to travel for work, or take your kids to school or extracurricular activities; it can make grocery shopping a challenge and limit your ability to respond to emergency situations.

Unfortunately, many people don’t have a detailed understanding of their traffic record and license points status, or of Colorado’s HTO rules. This leads to many drivers unknowingly becoming habitual traffic offenders.

What is Driving After Revocation Prohibited (DARP)?

An HTO designation can lead to further and more severe penalties for future violations, such as driving after revocation prohibited (DARP).

DARP is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by mandatory jail time ranging from six to 18 months in jail and fines up to $5,000. A DARP conviction may also be accompanied by community service and an additional driver’s license restraint of five years or longer.

A DARP violation occurs when a driver who has already been deemed a habitual traffic offender commits subsequent offenses such as:

  • DUI
  • DUI per se
  • DWAI
  • Reckless driving
  • Fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement

Probation is not available to individuals facing a DARP violation, though in some cases community service may be assigned to suspend all or a portion of the jail sentence and/or fine. In the case of aggravating factors, a DARP offense may increase to a Class 6 felony, the penalties for which include a mandatory jail sentence of at least 60 days.

Get the HTO Defense You Need and Deserve

A law book with a gavel - Criminal law
The Denver criminal defense attorneys at Wolf Law have extensive experience in traffic cases, including those involving HTO designations and DARP violations.

If you’re facing an HTO designation or DARP charges in Colorado, one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights and your driving privileges is to contact a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer.

The Denver criminal defense attorneys at Wolf Law have extensive experience in traffic cases, including those related to DUI/DWAI, driving with a suspended license, HTO status, and DARP violations. Our lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your options, and we fight hard to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

If you are confronted with possible HTO status or you were recently designated a habitual traffic offender, please call Wolf Law today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online to arrange your complimentary consultation.

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I Was Very Well Represented by Jeff

Regarding a DV assault charge, Jeff was able to have the judge do something he stated he’d never done in any similar case: he deferred my sentence, reduced probation, reduced the amount of classes I would have to take from being many weeks on end to 2 days, and instead of requiring a no-contact order (which would have left me homeless and unable to speak to my partner via any means), he placed me on a no-contact order with alcohol… That alone was the best thing I could hear.

Without going into details of my case, this was the best possible outcome I could have been given, and I’m so happy that I was recommended to him by a fellow law professional that went to school with Jeff. I will be using him again when the time comes to put this case behind me for good, and would recommend him to anyone who needs expert defense, and wants someone to explain your case in simple, yet professional terms. I felt very well taken care of. Thank you again, Jeff!

— Laurie A.

Much Appreciation!

After a misread medical record, I was wrongly accused of a serious crime. Even though doctors admitted that the nurse misstated the severity of an injury, law enforcement tried to destroy my life. Law enforcement threatened to take away my wife, my kids and my life. I called around to a couple of attorneys, and no one offered the type of first-class customer service that Jeff provided. He was immediately available. Throughout the process, Jeff was there to guide and protect me. He was always available. And, after a long journey together, we found justice and freedom. During the process, I found Jeff to be intelligent, determined and highly personable. I strongly recommend Jeff!

— Anonymous

Colleen is one of the best!! Goes Above and Beyond

I had to use legal services regarding a personal matter and I contacted 3 other lawyers. Colleen was the only one who took time to understand the issue but only explain legally how it can be addressed.

Also, I was surprised when she got me the desired result but she kept moving forward to make sure I had material for a potential criminal case. It shows that she cares and understands legal strategies.

— Anonymous

Very confident and competent attorney! I am very happy with Jeff

I contacted Jeff Wolf after I had some family issues that also carried potential criminal charges. I spoke with him as soon as i realized how severe the situation could be and he offered great legal advice that lead to me bringing him on as my personal attorney. The charges against me were dropped and I never had to go to trial but throughput the entire process Jeff was in touch and taking care of everything I needed. I am very happy with his services and would certainly work with him again if I was in the situation.

— Daniel E.

Colleen Kelley is the Best

I have hired Colleen previously and she did wonders including case dismissal. The flat rate fee is such a wonderful carefree situation. I wouldn’t trust anyone else when it comes to felony legal matters.

— Dustin

Thanks!

Dear Ms Kelly you have truly been a blessing to me.When this situation took place I searched and searched for a qualified attorney to represent me in fighting for my life att after att turned me towards wolf law and I told myself I wanted the best and she clearly overachieved. After doing so much for me and my family I felt I need to compensate her for what I feel was going the extra mile and she insisted that what I’ve paid was enough. That kind of integrity and dedication to your clients says a lot about wolf law. I will always be indebted to you guys thanks for everything.

— Jared T.

DUI Savior

Mr. Jeff Wolf is truly the best of his kind. He was able to help me out during a DUI case reducing my charges down to the best possible outcome. What could’ve been a worst case circumstance, Mr. Wolf turned into best case scenario through his knowledge and expertise with ease. Mr. Wolf provided me with guidance and insight and there is no one else I would’ve rather had in my corner advocating on my behalf. He is the best lawyer out there who is a straight shooter and an incredible mentor. I am lucky to have had him represent me. He is thorough, knowledgeable, hard working and extremely trustworthy. I owe him all of my gratitude for getting me through this.

— S. Martinez 

AMAZING LAWYER

Mr. Wolf was recommended to me through my cousin. I was facing a very serious legal matter and Mr. Wolf was amazing. He explained everything to me in detail. He listened to my questions and was very helpful. I am so thankful that he was my lawyer.

— Amy K

5 Stars

Was super helpful and always available anytime that I reached out. He was thorough and did everything that he could to help me out with my high BAC case. There isn’t a silver bullet out there and you likely won’t be lucky enough that somehow the charges go away, so your best bet is to sit with a consultation with Jeff and get your legal defense going ASAP as you work on the items that you can control (education/therapy/MADD panel) and let him handle the court items

— Casey

A Man of Passionate Action!

Colorado Law had recently passed a law, that would help me in the messy situation I was in. I knew immediately I had to find a lawyer to discuss the situation and the circumstances surrounding the process, and eligibility requirements for my specific case. I have to admit, I was very nervous reaching out to any lawyers who could help me.

So I did my research to the best of my ability, and having questions to ask to confirm I was making the right choice in a lawyer. A friend of mine who had previously worked with Mr. Wolf, had strongly recommended that I contact him. I am very grateful that I had! He was very respectful, and had a obvious passion to help me, asking specific questions surrounding my situation so that we can both deal with the issue at hand. Talking me through the processes and possible outcomes, straight forward. No sugar coating, which is nice because I value honesty.

Throughout the whole process, I was comfortable, and very trusting, as questions were answered accurately and after I tried contacting him with new questions or comments, he would return my call or email within 24 Hours! That showed me that he cared and was on top of his workload.

Nonetheless, the outcome of my case worked really well for me, and was a success. And for that, I want to show my gratitude.

Thank You Mr. Wolf for being on my side! I strongly recommend to anyone looking for a well competent lawyer, to contact Jeffrey Wolf at Wolf Law!

— Erwin H.