Washington County Court Process
Complete guide to arraignment, court dates, plea options, and what to expect during your case in Washington 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 Washington County AttorneysThe Washington County Court, located at 26861 US Highway 34, Akron, CO 80720, operates within a unique logistical landscape. This hyper-rural environment presents specific challenges and considerations for individuals facing DWI charges.
Washington County Court Location and Logistics
The Washington County Combined Court shares the same address as the Sheriff's Office and Justice Center: 26861 US Highway 34, Akron, CO 80720. This centralized location is the hub for all legal and detention activities in the county. Expect limited parking, especially on the 3rd Thursday of the month, which is the primary DUI/Traffic docket day.
Court Security Protocols
Security at the Washington County Court is managed by the Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO). Expect to encounter magnetometers (walk-through metal detectors) and x-ray scanners upon entry. Cell phones must be turned off or silent while in the courtroom.
Washington County Court Schedule
A critical aspect of navigating the Washington County court system is understanding the docket schedule. County Court Traffic and Misdemeanor cases, including DWIs, are primarily heard on the 3rd Thursday of each month, starting at 8:30 AM. This limited docket time means missing your court date can result in significant delays, potentially prolonging bond conditions and case resolution.
Judicial Officers
Honorable Kelly S. Hansen serves as the County Court Judge and presides over the vast majority of DUI cases in Washington County. District Judges rotate through for felony cases.
The Rural Reality: Challenges and Considerations
Washington County's rural nature presents unique challenges. The jury pool is exceptionally homogeneous, with 94.2% of residents identifying as White Alone. The lack of public transportation infrastructure also makes a driver's license suspension an economic immobilization, cutting off access to employment centers. Severe weather events, including blizzards, can further complicate travel and court appearances.
The financial burden of a DUI is significant for the average Washington County resident, whose median individual income is roughly $35,707. The costs associated with a DUI can exceed $10,000, representing a substantial portion of their annual income.
Post-Arrest Realities: Impound and Towing
If your vehicle is impounded following a DUI arrest, J&H Auto LLC (301 E 1st St, Akron, CO 80720, (970) 514-5299) is likely the towing service used. Be aware that J&H Auto is closed on Sundays, which can lead to extended impound times and increased storage fees if your arrest occurs on a Friday or Saturday. Vehicles placed under a "Police Hold" require a written release from the Sheriff's Office (26861 US Highway 34) before they can be retrieved from the tow yard.
Sources
Colorado Penal Code
Washington County District Court
Colorado Court System
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