Denver County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Denver County, CO: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Denver County can be a disorienting experience. The Denver County Court processes over 100,000 cases annually, making it one of the busiest court systems in the Rocky Mountain region. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of what to expect and how to navigate the legal process ahead, from understanding bail procedures to navigating the complexities of impounded vehicles.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

Following a DUI arrest in Denver County, the immediate steps typically involve:

• Arrest and Booking: You will be taken into custody by an officer, likely from the Denver Police Department (DPD) or the Denver Sheriff Department.
• Transportation: You will be transported to the Van Cise-Simonet Downtown Detention Center located at 490 W. Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80204.
• Booking Process: At the detention center, you will undergo a booking process, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and a search of your personal belongings.
• Phone Calls: After booking, you will typically be allowed to make a phone call. It's crucial to use this call wisely.
• Bail Hearing/Bond Setting: A bond will be set. Information on bonds can often be found via the Denver County Court public portal.

Critical Deadlines

Several critical deadlines must be met following a DUI arrest:

• DMV Hearing Request: You have only seven days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Colorado Department of Revenue. This request must be filed to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. Email your hearing request to dor_hearingrequest@state.co.us.
• Initial Court Appearance: You will receive a summons with your first court appearance date. Missing this date can result in a warrant for your arrest. You can look up your courtroom assignment and case details on the Denver County Court's Public Portal Case Management System.
• Compliance Deadlines: If enrolled in a diversion program or ordered to complete specific requirements (e.g., substance abuse evaluation, community service), strict deadlines will be enforced.

DUI Enforcement in Denver County

Denver County sees aggressive and coordinated DUI enforcement, particularly around major sporting venues and entertainment districts. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) conducts "The Heat Is On" saturation patrols, and sobriety checkpoints are strategically placed along major roads like Speer Boulevard. Be aware of heightened enforcement during holidays and special events.

Local Resources

• Denver County Court (Criminal Division): Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse, 520 W. Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80204. Clerk Phone: 720-337-0410. Filing Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
• Division of Motor Vehicles - Driver Control Section: 1351 5th St., Suite 100, Denver, CO 80204. Phone: 303-205-5606.
• Denver Sheriff Department Vehicle Impound Facility (VIF): 5160 York St, Denver, CO 80216. Phone: 720-865-0470. Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Sat: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Closed Sundays and city holidays.
• Finding a Licensed Bail Bondsman: Contact several licensed bail bondsmen to compare rates and services. They can guide you through the bail process.
• Finding a DUI Attorney: Consult with several DUI attorneys to discuss your case and understand your legal options.

What Makes Denver County Different

Denver County has several unique aspects to consider when facing a DUI charge:

• Event Towing Trap: A severe issue occurs during major events near stadiums. Vehicles are towed to a temporary satellite impound location. You have a strict two-hour window after the event to claim the vehicle for the standard $120 base tow fee. Failure to do so results in a second tow to the main Vehicle Impound Facility and doubles the base tow fee to $240.
• Weekend Blackout Period: The Denver Sheriff Department Vehicle Impound Facility is closed on Sundays and closes at 3:00 PM on Saturdays. If arrested late Saturday or early Sunday, you cannot retrieve your vehicle until Monday at 10:00 AM, incurring extra storage fees.
• Strict Ownership Rules: The name on your photo ID must perfectly match the vehicle registration or title to retrieve your vehicle from the impound lot. A notarized letter is required if someone else is retrieving the vehicle on your behalf.
• Problem-Solving Courts: Denver County has embraced specialized programs like Denver Sobriety Court and Recovery Court, which focus on treatment and rehabilitation for repeat offenders and those with substance abuse issues. The Denver County Court has expanded its focus on recovery and treatment.
• Electronic Device Policy: The Second Judicial District enforces a strict electronic device policy. All devices must be muted or powered off in the courtroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Where is my car towed after a DUI arrest in Denver County?*A: Your car is likely towed to the Denver Sheriff Department Vehicle Impound Facility (VIF) at 5160 York St, Denver, CO 80216. However, during events, it might be taken to a temporary satellite lot. Use the Autura digital portal to locate your vehicle.

**Q: What happens if I refuse a blood or breath test in Denver County?*A: Under Colorado's Express Consent Law, refusing a chemical test results in an automatic license suspension. You still have the right to request an ALR hearing to contest the suspension.

**Q: How do I find out my court date and courtroom in Denver County?*A: Use the Denver County Court's Public Portal Case Management System to look up your case information and courtroom assignment.

Browse licensed bail bondsmen in our bail bond directory or find a local DUI attorney in our attorney directory.

Sources

• Denver County Court Public Portal - Bond
• Denver County Court Public Portal - Case Quick Search
• Colorado Department of Transportation - Heightened DUI Enforcement
• Denver Sheriff Department - Contacts
• Denver Sheriff Department - Court Services
• Denver County Court
• Denver County Court - Contact
• Denver District Attorney - Find My Courtroom or Case
• Denver County Court - Judicial Officers
• Denver County Court - New Recovery Court Press Release
• Denver County Court - Traffic
• Denver County Court - Public Access
• Colorado Judicial Branch
• Denver County Court - Courts

After a DUI arrest in Denver County, contact the Division of Motor Vehicles - Driver Control Section at 303-205-5606 to confirm the exact procedures for requesting an ALR hearing and preventing license suspension.