Eagle County Bail Information

Navigating Bail After a DUI Arrest in Eagle County, Colorado

If you've been arrested for DUI in Eagle County, Colorado, your immediate concern is likely getting out of jail. Understanding the bail process and your options is crucial. The Eagle County Detention Facility (ECDF), located in the town of Eagle, is where you'll be processed and potentially held pending bail. This guide provides a detailed overview of how bail works in Eagle County DUI cases, offering actionable steps to take after an arrest.

Understanding the Initial Arrest and Booking Process

Following a DUI arrest by the Eagle County Sheriff's Office, Vail Police Department, or Eagle Police Department, you'll be transported to the ECDF. The ECDF is located at . The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and a search of your person and belongings. You'll be informed of the charges against you, which could include DUI (Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher) or DWAI (BAC between 0.05% and 0.08%). If drug impairment is suspected, a blood draw will be required, potentially extending the processing time. Remember, refusing a chemical test triggers an immediate one-year license revocation.

Bail Setting and Release Options

Bail in Eagle County is typically set according to a pre-determined bail schedule. The amount can vary depending on the severity of the charges, your prior criminal record, and other factors. Here are the common ways to secure your release:

• Cash Bail: Paying the full bail amount in cash directly to the court. This ensures your appearance in court. If you appear at all required hearings, the money is returned to you (minus court fees) at the conclusion of the case.
• Surety Bond: Enlisting the services of a bail bondsman. The bondsman charges a non-refundable fee (typically 10-15% of the total bail amount) to guarantee your appearance in court. If you fail to appear, the bondsman is responsible for paying the full bail amount.
• Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond: A release based on your promise to appear in court. This is typically granted to individuals with strong ties to the community and a low risk of flight.
• Property Bond: Using real estate as collateral to secure your release. This option requires the property to be unencumbered by other liens and the equity to be sufficient to cover the bail amount.

Factors Affecting Bail Amount

Several factors can influence the amount of bail set in your DUI case:

• Prior DUI Convictions: A history of DUI convictions will likely result in a higher bail amount.
• High BAC: A BAC significantly above 0.08% can lead to increased bail.
• Accident or Injury: If the DUI resulted in an accident causing property damage or injury to others, bail will likely be higher.
• Refusal to Submit to Chemical Testing: Refusing a breath or blood test can also lead to a higher bail amount.

Navigating Bond Conditions and Restrictions

Release on bail often comes with conditions. In Eagle County DUI cases, these conditions may include:

• Sobriety Monitoring: The court may order a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) ankle bracelet to monitor your alcohol consumption. Intervention, Inc. and Recovery Monitoring Solutions are primary vendors servicing the 5th Judicial District.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If your license is suspended or revoked, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle as a condition of bond. Smart Start has locations in Avon (80 Metcalf Rd, Avon, CO 81620) and Gypsum (101 Airpark Dr, Gypsum, CO 81637).
• Drug and Alcohol Evaluation: You may be required to undergo a substance abuse evaluation and comply with any recommended treatment. Mind Springs Health (137 Howard Street, Eagle, CO 81631) is a primary provider in the region.
• Travel Restrictions: The court may restrict your travel outside of Eagle County or Colorado.

The "Compliance Triangle" and Logistical Challenges

Eagle County presents unique logistical challenges for DUI defendants. The judicial and detention systems are centralized in Eagle, while enforcement hotspots like Vail and Avon are located 20-30 miles east. This creates a "Compliance Triangle" where you must navigate court appearances in Eagle, potential treatment in Avon, and license reinstatement potentially in Glenwood Springs.

What to Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest

1. Contact an Attorney: An experienced DUI attorney can advise you on your rights, navigate the bail process, and represent you in court.
2. Gather Information: Collect all documents related to your arrest, including the arrest report, Notice of Revocation (if applicable), and any bail paperwork.
3. Comply with Bond Conditions: Strictly adhere to all bond conditions to avoid being taken back into custody.
4. Prepare for Court: Understand the charges against you and the potential penalties.

Key Logistical Contacts

• Eagle County Detention Facility:
• Mind Springs Health (Eagle): 137 Howard Street, Eagle, CO 81631
• Smart Start (Avon): 80 Metcalf Rd, Avon, CO 81620
• Smart Start (Gypsum): 101 Airpark Dr, Gypsum, CO 81637

Remember, navigating the DUI process in Eagle County can be complex. Contact a qualified attorney immediately to protect your rights and ensure you understand your options.