Clear Creek County Bail Information

Navigating a DUI Arrest in Clear Creek County: A Practical Guide

Facing a DUI charge in Clear Creek County, Colorado, presents unique logistical challenges. Unlike larger Front Range cities, the county's geography and demographics create a complex system for navigating the legal process. This guide provides actionable information to help you understand the steps involved, from arrest to vehicle recovery.

Understanding the Arrest and Initial Steps

DUI enforcement in Clear Creek County is primarily handled by the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho Springs Police Department. Knowing which agency made the arrest is crucial for locating your vehicle and police report. Be aware that sobriety checkpoints are strategically deployed, particularly on Highway 6 near the Z-Stop gas station in Clear Creek Canyon, a popular alternative route for drivers returning from Black Hawk casinos. These checkpoints, often involving multiple agencies, can screen hundreds of vehicles in a single night. Even turning around to avoid a checkpoint can trigger a stop if officers observe suspicious behavior.

Posting Bond and Jail Release

After an arrest, you'll be taken to the Clear Creek County Detention Facility, located at 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, CO 80444. Bond amounts for a first or second DUI offense typically range from $500 to $1,000. Felony DUI charges, such as those involving three or more prior offenses, can result in bonds ranging from $2,000 to $50,000.

To post bond, you can use cash, a surety bond through a bondsman, or a property bond. Personal checks are not accepted at the jail. Funds must be in the form of money orders or cashier's checks, or deposited via the Access Corrections kiosk in the jail lobby. Upon release, ensure you receive a "Bond Complaint Form," which can be used to report any violations of the 48-hour statutory limit for appearing before a judge.

Vehicle Impound and Recovery

Your vehicle will almost certainly be impounded after a DUI arrest in Clear Creek County. The county utilizes a rotation of private towing companies, including Mountain Recovery and Georgetown Towing. To determine which company has your vehicle, call the non-emergency dispatch at 303-980-7300. Do not assume based on the location of the arrest.

Towing fees in the mountains are regulated by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), but "incident management" tows (like those from a DUI arrest on a highway) allow for higher rates. Expect to pay approximately $279.78 per hour for vehicles under 10,000 lbs, plus storage fees of $47.12 to $58.13 per 24-hour period. An after-hours release fee of approximately $103.70 will apply if you pick up your vehicle outside of standard business hours (typically M-F, 8-5). A typical DUI impound retrieval (towed Friday night, picked up Monday morning) will likely cost between $500 and $800.

Before heading to the tow yard, confirm there is no "Police Hold" on the vehicle. To release the vehicle, the registered owner must be present with a valid photo ID, proof of ownership (current registration or title), and valid insurance. If your license was seized at the time of arrest, you must bring a licensed second driver or have the vehicle towed. You are legally entitled to retrieve "life-essential" personal property (prescription meds, child seats, wallets, phones) from the vehicle without paying the full tow bill immediately.

Navigating the Court System

DUI cases are adjudicated at the Clear Creek County Courthouse, located at 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, CO 80444. The courthouse is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The clerk's office is closed daily from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and closes early (4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) on the 1st Tuesday and 3rd Thursday of each month for staff meetings. Be prepared to pass through metal detectors upon entry, and note that firearms and other prohibited items are not allowed.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Navigating a DUI in Clear Creek County requires careful attention to detail and an understanding of local procedures. Start by contacting the Clear Creek County Combined Court at (303) 569-0820 to confirm your court date and any specific requirements.