Archuleta County Court Process

The Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) is the primary law enforcement entity for the unincorporated areas of the county, including the vast residential networks of Pagosa Lakes and the rural county roads. Their jurisdiction covers 1,350 square miles.

DWI Court Procedures in Archuleta County, Colorado: A Local Guide

If you've been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) in Archuleta County, Colorado, understanding the local court procedures is essential. This guide provides key information specific to Archuleta County to help you navigate the legal process.

Law Enforcement Agencies Involved in DWI Arrests

DUI enforcement in Archuleta County is primarily handled by:

• Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO): Covers unincorporated areas, including Pagosa Lakes and county roads.
• Pagosa Springs Police Department (PSPD): Operates within the town limits of Pagosa Springs, particularly around bars, restaurants, and the hot springs resort area.
• Colorado State Patrol (CSP): Focuses on U.S. Highway 160 and U.S. Highway 84, especially on Wolf Creek Pass.

Regardless of the arresting agency, you will be transported to the Harman Park complex for booking.

Vehicle Impound and Towing

Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle is typically impounded. Archuleta County utilizes a "Rotation List" for towing companies, potentially overriding your preferred vendor. Piedra Automotive, located at 505 Piedra Road, is frequently the primary vendor. For incidents on Wolf Creek Pass or involving larger vehicles, Wolf Creek Towing is often used. Be aware of the "Weekend Trap" at Piedra Automotive, as they are closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, potentially leading to several days of storage fees. If your vehicle slides off the road, winching and recovery fees may apply, often at $150+ per hour. Arrive with at least $1,000 CASH. Bring a licensed driver to retrieve the car if your license was seized.

Detention and Booking Procedures

Upon arrival at the Archuleta County Detention Facility at 125 Harman Park Drive, your personal effects will be inventoried. Family members can drop off prescription medications, glasses, or medical devices, but this requires prior approval from the Detention Commander. Call (970) 264-8474 during business hours to arrange authorization. The jail will not release any intoxicated arrestees until they are sober, even after bail is posted.

Bonding

For first-time DUI offenses without injury, the Sheriff may grant a Personal Recognizance (PR) bond once sobriety is established. Otherwise, monetary bonds can be paid online via GovPayNow (with service fees) or through bail bondsmen like Dennis Blackwell Bail Bonds or Signature Bail Bonds.

Court Procedures and Judge Justin P. Fay

The Archuleta County Combined Court is located at the Archuleta County Justice Center at 109 Harman Park Drive. Judge Justin P. Fay presides over DUI cases. Phones must be OFF or SILENT.

The Archuleta County Detention Facility phone number is (970) 264-8474.