Washington County DUI Court Process

Washington County DUI Court Process

Facing a DUI charge in Washington County, Colorado can be a daunting experience. This guide provides a clear understanding of the court process, potential penalties, and local procedures specific to Washington County. Knowing what to expect can help you navigate the legal system more effectively.

Which Court Handles DUI Cases?

DUI cases in Washington County are typically handled by the Washington Combined Court.

• Court: Washington Combined Court
• Address: 26861 Highway 34, Akron, CO 80720
• Phone: (970) 345-2756
• Hours: Washington County appearances are in-person, unless you have permission to appear virtually.

To find your court date, contact the Washington Combined Court directly at (970) 345-2756. Be prepared to provide your name and case number (if you have it).

The Court Process Timeline

The DUI court process in Washington County generally follows these steps:

1. Arraignment (First Appearance)

The arraignment is your first court appearance.

• When: This usually occurs within a few weeks of your arrest.
• What to Expect: The judge will inform you of the charges against you and your rights.
• Entering a Plea: You'll be asked to enter a plea of "guilty," "not guilty," or "no contest."
• Court-Appointed Attorney: If you cannot afford an attorney, you can request a court-appointed attorney at this time.

2. Pre-Trial Hearings

Pre-trial hearings are opportunities for your attorney to gather information and negotiate with the prosecution.

• Discovery Process: Your attorney will receive evidence from the prosecution, including police reports, blood alcohol content (BAC) test results, and witness statements.
• Plea Negotiations: Your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to reach a plea agreement.
• Typical Plea Deals in Washington County: Plea deals can vary depending on the specific facts of your case, your prior record, and the prosecutor's willingness to negotiate.

3. Trial (If No Plea Deal)

If you don't reach a plea agreement, your case will proceed to trial.

• Jury vs. Bench Trial: You have the right to a jury trial, where a panel of citizens decides your guilt or innocence. You can also opt for a bench trial, where the judge makes the decision.
• What the Prosecution Must Prove: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Common Defenses: Common defenses to DUI charges include challenging the accuracy of the BAC test, arguing that you were not impaired, or claiming that the police violated your rights.
• Typical Trial Length: DUI trials can last from one to several days, depending on the complexity of the case.

Penalties for DUI in Washington County, CO

Colorado law § 42-4-1301 outlines the penalties for DUI. The consequences of a DUI conviction in Washington County, CO, mirror those defined by Colorado state law, but the impact can be particularly severe in a rural community where driving is essential.

First Offense

• Jail Time: 5 days to 1 year (can often be served as work release or community service)
• Fines: $600 to $1,000 plus court costs
• License Suspension: 9 months
• Other Requirements: Alcohol and drug evaluation, Level I or Level II alcohol education and treatment program, possible community service, and possible Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement upon license reinstatement.

Second Offense

• Jail Time: 10 days to 1 year
• Fines: $600 to $1,500 plus court costs
• License Suspension: 1 year
• Other Requirements: Mandatory alcohol and drug evaluation, Level II alcohol education and treatment program, community service, and mandatory Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for at least two years.

Third Offense

• A third DUI offense in Colorado is a felony.
• Prison Time: 2 to 6 years in prison
• Fines: $2,000 to $500,000 plus court costs
• License Revocation: Minimum 2 years, but could be permanent revocation.
• Other Requirements: Mandatory alcohol and drug evaluation, Level II alcohol education and treatment, and a longer period of mandatory Ignition Interlock Device (IID) use upon license reinstatement (if reinstatement is even possible).

Court Programs in Washington County

It is important to note that the 13th Judicial District has a Self-Represented Litigant Coordinator (Stephanie Mayer) who is physically present in Akron only on the 3rd Wednesday of the month (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM).

• Diversion programs: It is important to consult with your attorney about the possibility of diversion programs.
• Drug court: It is important to consult with your attorney about the possibility of drug court.
• DUI court: It is important to consult with your attorney about the possibility of DUI court.
• Community service opportunities: It is important to consult with your attorney about the possibility of community service.

What to Bring to Court

• Photo ID: Driver's license, passport, or other government-issued identification.
• Court Summons: The official notice you received informing you of the court date.
• Any Documentation: Any evidence relevant to your case, such as photos, medical records, or witness statements.
• Professional Dress Code: Dress in a respectful manner. Avoid wearing shorts, t-shirts, or revealing clothing. Business casual attire is generally appropriate.

Local Court Procedures

Washington County appearances are in-person, unless you have permission to appear virtually.

The Washington County Combined Court, like many rural courts, operates on a limited schedule. DUI and traffic cases are typically heard on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 8:30 AM. Missing this date can delay your case by a month.

The Washington County Combined Court uses magnetometers (walk-through metal detectors) and x-ray scanners. Cell phones must be turned off or silent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I miss my court date in Washington County? A: Missing your court date can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest and additional penalties. Contact your attorney or the court clerk immediately if you cannot attend your scheduled hearing.

Q: Can I get a public defender in Washington County? A: Yes, if you cannot afford an attorney, you can apply for a court-appointed attorney. The judge will determine your eligibility based on your financial situation.

Q: What is the "3rd Thursday" bottleneck in Washington County court? A: DUI/Traffic Docket: County Court Traffic and Misdemeanor case types are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 8:30 A.M..

Sources

• Washington County Demographics (CO) - Map of County's Population by Race - Census Dots
• Washington County Jail in Akron, Colorado - Shouse Law Group
• Washington County, Colorado - Wikipedia
• U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Washington County, Colorado
• Washington County - Data Commons
• Information Regarding Locations of Towed Vehicles from March 14-15 Snowstorm | Colorado State Patrol
• Washington County Sheriff
• Contact Us - Washington County Sheriffs Office - Colorado.gov
• WCSO Staff | Washington County Sheriff
• Washington County Sheriffs Office
• Checklist: Law Enforcement Public Tow Requirements DR 2774 - Colorado DMV
• Trailer Rental & Towing in Akron, CO at J&H Auto - U-Haul
• Trailer & Towing Rentals Near Akron, CO 80720 - U-Haul
• Vendor Description Amount - Washington County
• washington county, co gl335r-v08.14 page
• Law Enforcement Tow - Colorado Public Utilities Commission
• Impound Info | Vehicle Release with Red's Towing Services
• Colorado DUI law § 42-4-1301