Graham County DUI Court Guide
Everything you need to know about appearing in court for your DUI case in Graham County.
Last verified: January 27, 2026
Graham County Criminal Justice Center
About the Graham County Court System
The Graham County judicial system is bifurcated: County Criminal Courts at Law (16 courts) handle misdemeanor DUI cases (first/second offenses), while Criminal District Courts (20+ courts) handle felony charges (third offense, child passenger, injury, or death). The CJC houses both - misdemeanor courts on mid-rise floors, felony courts on high-rise floors.
Critical: Do NOT Do These Things
Warrant issued immediately
Anything you say can be used against you
Can be used as evidence
Additional criminal charges
Bail revoked, returned to jail
Others can be subpoenaed to testify
Security Screening & Prohibited Items
What to Expect
- Metal detector screening (remove belt, watch)
- Bag/purse X-ray scanning
- Allow 15-20 minutes for security
- Typical wait: 1-3 hours once inside
Do NOT Bring
- Weapons (including pocket knives)
- Pepper spray or mace
- Large bags or backpacks
- Food or drinks (water OK)
Court Day Checklist
Required Documents
Day-Of Reminders
Tip: Screenshot or print this checklist. Check items off as you prepare the night before.
How DUI Cases Move Through Court
1. Arraignment
First appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges
- Enter plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date scheduled
What to Know:
- Most plead Not Guilty initially
- Attorney will advise on plea
- Write down next court date
- Request public defender if needed
2. Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months. Your attorney handles most of this.
What Your Attorney Does:
3. Plea Bargain or Trial
Over 90% of cases resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain (Common)
- Reduced charges possible
- Lower penalties
- Faster resolution
- Known outcome
Trial (Rare ~5%)
- Jury decides guilt
- Higher risk/reward
- Takes 6-12+ months
- More expensive
4. Sentencing
Judge imposes penalties. First offense usually means probation.
Common Outcomes (1st Offense):
Related Graham County Guides
In Graham County, the City of Safford charges a $150 Administrative Impound Fee if your vehicle is impounded following a DUI arrest.
Navigating DWI Court Procedures in Graham County, Arizona
If you've been arrested for Driving While Impaired (DWI) in Graham County, Arizona, understanding the local court procedures can significantly ease the stress of the legal process. This guide provides essential information to help you navigate the Graham County court system.
Vehicle Impoundment
The immediate aftermath of a DUI arrest often involves vehicle impoundment. If the Safford Police Department initiated the impound, you'll need to pay a $150 administrative fee to the City of Safford. This fee must be paid before you can retrieve your vehicle from the tow yard. The funds from this fee are deposited into a special fund designated for the implementation of A.R.S. § 28-872.
Important Note: City administrative offices are often closed on weekends. If arrested on a Friday night, you may not be able to pay the fee until Monday morning, incurring additional storage fees at the tow yard (typically $12-$25/day).
Vehicles are typically subject to a 30-day impoundment, though early release may be possible after 20 days under certain conditions, such as reinstatement of driving privileges or retrieval by a spouse with a valid license and proof of marriage and vehicle ownership. Lienholders (finance companies) can also retrieve vehicles early.
Towing Services
Graham County uses a rotation system for towing. Two primary providers are:
- Nuttall's Towing LLC: 304 S 7th Ave, Safford, AZ 85546. While they offer 24-hour towing service, administrative release hours are usually limited to standard business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM). They may close for lunch.
- Magnum Towing: 530 E U.S. Hwy 70, Safford, AZ 85546. Magnum Towing advertises being open 24 hours, Monday through Sunday.
Payment: Cash is the preferred payment method at most tow yards.
Detention and Bail
The Graham County Adult Detention Facility is located at 600 W. Graham Canal Road, Safford, AZ 85546. The booking phone number is 928-428-2455 (Detention) or 928-428-3141 (Sheriff Admin).
For "Cash Only" bonds, the Detention Facility only accepts money orders. No cash or personal checks are accepted for bonds.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
If convicted, you'll likely be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle. Local providers in Safford include:
- Intoxalock: Partnered with Haralson Tire Company, 214 E US Hwy 70, Safford, AZ 85546. (Closed weekends)
- Smart Start: Partnered with UTV Werks, 1153 W Thatcher Blvd, Safford, AZ 85546.
- QuickStart: 102 W 5th St, Safford, AZ.
Monthly calibration is required, so choosing a local provider is crucial.
Court Calendars and Virtual Hearings
Graham County Courts utilize Zoom for virtual hearings. Links to court calendars and virtual hearing information can be found on the Graham County website.
Graham County Courts & Judicial Department
For court-related inquiries, you can contact the Graham County Courts & Judicial Department.
Liquidate assets to cash or money orders is a smart first step to prepare for a Graham County DUI defense.
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