Park County Court Process
Complete guide to arraignment, court dates, plea options, and what to expect during your case in Park County.
Court Information
Court Process Timeline
Arraignment
First court appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges against you
- You enter initial plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date is scheduled
- Public defender appointed if needed
Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months where your attorney negotiates with prosecutors.
Attorney Activities:
- Review police reports and evidence
- File motions to suppress evidence
- Challenge breathalyzer/blood test results
- Negotiate plea bargains
- Discuss diversion program eligibility
Plea Bargain or Trial
Most cases (over 90%) resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain Benefits
- • Reduced charges
- • Lighter sentence
- • Certainty of outcome
- • Lower costs
Trial Risks
- • Maximum sentence if convicted
- • Higher legal fees
- • Uncertainty
- • Time consuming
Sentencing
Judge determines penalties based on the plea agreement or trial verdict. Sentences may include fines, probation, jail time, license suspension, IID, SCRAM monitoring, and/or DUI classes.
Don't Face This Alone
A attorney can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal, between jail time and probation. They know local judges, prosecutors, and can challenge evidence that you might not even know is challengeable.
Find Park County AttorneysThe logistical trajectory of DUI charges in Park County is shaped by high-altitude geography, rural demographic dispersion, and statutory frameworks, creating a "frontier" judicial environment. Challenges include friction of distance, scarcity of vendors, and the operational tempo of the Sheriff’s Office. Severe winter weather (October-May) complicates physical movements for legal processes, including mandatory court dates.
DWI Court Procedures in Park County, Colorado
If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Park County, Colorado, understanding the local court procedures can help you navigate the legal process. This guide provides an overview of what to expect.
Court Location and Contact Information
The Park County Combined Court handles both misdemeanor and felony DUI cases. It operates under the umbrella of the 11th Judicial District.
Address: 300 4th Street, Fairplay, CO 80440 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 190, Fairplay, CO 80440 Phone: 719-836-2940 Fax: 719-838-4569 Operating Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Clerk of Court Email: ParkCountyClerk@judicial.state.co.us
Judge Brian L. Green
The presiding judge for most DUI cases in Park County (County Court jurisdiction) is Judge Brian L. Green. Appointed in 2007, Judge Green has extensive experience and is known for his engagement with legal arguments. In the 2022 retention survey, Judge Green received ratings "remarkably higher" than the average for county judges excelling in "Case Management," "Demeanor," and "Fairness". He is described as a "working judge" who conducts his own legal research and writes his own opinions. Ensure your attorney provides well-reasoned, case-specific legal briefing.
Courtroom Protocol and Technology
Virtual Appearances
Judge Green often uses the Cisco Webex platform for pre-trial proceedings to minimize travel to Fairplay.
Virtual Courtroom: "Park Combined Court A" Connection Number: 2660 762 5286 Audio Dial-in: 720-650-7664
Remember that virtual appearances are a privilege, requiring cameras to be on and appropriate attire. Driving during a virtual court appearance can lead to bond revocation.
Electronic Devices
During in-person appearances, cell phones and smart devices must be turned OFF or SILENT. Photography, video recording, or audio recording is prohibited without a specific Expanded Media Coverage order. All entrants are subject to security screening.
Jury Service
Jurors are summoned from across Park County, which may involve significant travel time (60+ minutes) from areas like Bailey or Pine Junction to Fairplay. Debbie O'Rourke serves as the Jury Commissioner for the 11th JD. Jurors are entitled to a one-time postponement, with written requests required at least 5 business days before the appearance date.
Jury Commissioner Contact: 719-204-2220 or 11thjury@judicial.state.co.us.
The Park County Detention Center is located at 1180 County Road 16, Fairplay, CO 80440. You can call them at 719-836-4373.
Sources
Colorado Penal Code
Park County District Court
Colorado Court System
24/7 Legal Support
Need a Attorney in Park County?
Get connected with experienced attorneys who know Park County courts and can fight for the best outcome.