Arapahoe County DUI Court Process

Your DUI Case in Arapahoe County Court

This guide provides a roadmap of the court process, outlining what to expect at each stage, potential penalties, and resources available to you. Understanding this process is the first step in navigating your DUI case effectively.

Which Court Handles DUI Cases?

In Arapahoe County, DUI cases are typically handled in one of two courts, depending on the severity of the charges:

• County Court (Misdemeanor): The Arapahoe County Court handles the majority of DUI cases, including first and second offenses.
• District Court (Felony): Felony DUIs, which include third or subsequent offenses, vehicular assault, or vehicular homicide, are handled by the District Court. Notable District Court judges include Chief Judge Michelle Amico (Div 201), Judge David Karpel (Div 207), and Judge Darren Vahle (Div 206).

Both courts are located at the Arapahoe County Justice Center (ACJC) at 7325 S. Potomac Street. While specific hours are not published, court proceedings generally occur during standard business hours, Monday through Friday.

To find your specific court date, consult your arrest paperwork or contact the court clerk's office. Unfortunately, Arapahoe County does not offer a public-facing online warrant check system provided by the Sheriff's Office, meaning you'll need to contact the court or Sheriff to verify your warrant status, or consult with a DUI attorney.

The Court Process Timeline

The DUI court process in Arapahoe County generally follows these steps:

1. Arraignment (First Appearance)

• When it happens: The arraignment is your first court appearance, typically scheduled within a few weeks of your arrest.
• What to expect: At the arraignment, you will be formally advised of the charges against you, and the court will ensure you understand your rights.
• Entering a plea: You will be asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. It is generally advisable to plead not guilty at this stage, even if you believe you are guilty, as this preserves your options for negotiation and investigation.
• Getting a court-appointed attorney: If you cannot afford an attorney, you can request a court-appointed attorney at the arraignment.

2. Pre-Trial Hearings

• Discovery process: During the pre-trial phase, your attorney will engage in the discovery process, which involves obtaining and reviewing the evidence the prosecution intends to use against you.
• Plea negotiations: Your attorney may engage in plea negotiations with the prosecutor to attempt to reach a favorable resolution to your case.
• Typical plea deals in Arapahoe County: Plea deals can vary depending on the specific facts of your case and your prior record. Common outcomes include pleading guilty to a lesser charge, such as DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired), or receiving a reduced sentence.

3. Trial (If No Plea Deal)

• Jury vs. bench trial: You have the right to a trial by jury, or you can opt for a bench trial, where the judge decides the case.
• What prosecution must prove: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Common defenses: Common defenses in DUI cases include challenging the accuracy of the breath or blood test, arguing that the police lacked probable cause to stop you, or demonstrating that you were not in actual physical control of the vehicle.
• Typical trial length: DUI trials can last anywhere from a day to several days, depending on the complexity of the case.

Penalties for DUI in Arapahoe County, CO

Penalties for DUI in Colorado are determined by state law and can vary depending on the number of prior offenses and other aggravating factors.

First Offense

• Jail time: CO law § 42-4-1307 outlines penalties. Jail time can range from 5 days to 1 year.
• Fines: CO law § 42-4-1307 outlines penalties. Fines can range from $600 to $1,000.
• License suspension: CO law § 42-4-1307 outlines penalties. A first DUI offense typically results in a 9-month license revocation.
• Other requirements: Alcohol and drug education classes, community service, and potential installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).

Second Offense

A second DUI offense carries significantly harsher penalties:

• Increased jail time compared to a first offense.
• Higher fines compared to a first offense.
• A longer license suspension of one year.
• Mandatory installation of an IID.

Third Offense

A third DUI offense is a felony offense under Colorado law.

• Prison time is a potential outcome.
• The risk of permanent license revocation is significant.

Court Programs in Arapahoe County

• Sobriety Court: The 18th Judicial District operates a specialized "Sobriety Court" (often associated with Divisions 101/202) for high-risk, high-need offenders. This is a treatment-oriented diversion program that requires intense supervision, frequent reviews, and mandatory treatment in exchange for potential sentence mitigation.

What to Bring to Court

• Photo ID
• Court summons
• Any documentation relevant to your case (e.g., vehicle registration, insurance information)
• Professional dress code (business casual attire is recommended)

Local Court Procedures

The Arapahoe County Justice Center (ACJC) has integrated Webex for certain proceedings, though this is inconsistent across divisions and is not a guaranteed right. Virtual appearance usually requires a prior motion and judicial approval. Defendants assuming they can simply "Zoom in" without permission often find themselves facing a bench warrant. The default expectation remains in-person appearance unless explicitly excused.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Where is the Arapahoe County Detention Facility located? The Arapahoe County Detention Facility is located at 7375 S. Potomac Street in Centennial.

2What is the booking fee at the Arapahoe County Detention Facility? There is a non-refundable booking fee of $40.00 assessed against the inmate's account. Additionally, there is a $10.00 fee attached to the posting of any bond.

3What happens if I miss the 7-day deadline to request a ,[object Object], after a DUI arrest in Arapahoe County? Missing the 7-day deadline results in automatic license revocation with no recourse, regardless of the strength of the defense case.

Sources

• Arapahoe County | Colorado Judicial Branch
• Arapahoe County Justice Center - Colorado Judicial Branch
• 18th Judicial District Arapahoe County Combined Courts
• Arapahoe County Judges and Staff | Colorado Judicial Branch
• The Colorado – Arapahoe – Douglas County DUI – DWAI – DUID Multiple Offender Program (MOPS
• EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT: ARAPAHOE, DOUGLAS, ELBERT and LINCOLN COUNTIES, COLORADO Arapahoe County Justice Center 7325 South
• Arapahoe County Jail and Detention Facility | Centennial Colorado - Denver Sex Crimes Attorneys