Cochise County DUI Court Guide
Everything you need to know about appearing in court for your DUI case in Cochise County.
Last verified: January 27, 2026
Cochise County Criminal Justice Center
About the Cochise County Court System
The Cochise County judicial system is bifurcated: County Criminal Courts at Law (16 courts) handle misdemeanor DUI cases (first/second offenses), while Criminal District Courts (20+ courts) handle felony charges (third offense, child passenger, injury, or death). The CJC houses both - misdemeanor courts on mid-rise floors, felony courts on high-rise floors.
Critical: Do NOT Do These Things
Warrant issued immediately
Anything you say can be used against you
Can be used as evidence
Additional criminal charges
Bail revoked, returned to jail
Others can be subpoenaed to testify
Security Screening & Prohibited Items
What to Expect
- Metal detector screening (remove belt, watch)
- Bag/purse X-ray scanning
- Allow 15-20 minutes for security
- Typical wait: 1-3 hours once inside
Do NOT Bring
- Weapons (including pocket knives)
- Pepper spray or mace
- Large bags or backpacks
- Food or drinks (water OK)
Court Day Checklist
Required Documents
Day-Of Reminders
Tip: Screenshot or print this checklist. Check items off as you prepare the night before.
How DUI Cases Move Through Court
1. Arraignment
First appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges
- Enter plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date scheduled
What to Know:
- Most plead Not Guilty initially
- Attorney will advise on plea
- Write down next court date
- Request public defender if needed
2. Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months. Your attorney handles most of this.
What Your Attorney Does:
3. Plea Bargain or Trial
Over 90% of cases resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain (Common)
- Reduced charges possible
- Lower penalties
- Faster resolution
- Known outcome
Trial (Rare ~5%)
- Jury decides guilt
- Higher risk/reward
- Takes 6-12+ months
- More expensive
4. Sentencing
Judge imposes penalties. First offense usually means probation.
Common Outcomes (1st Offense):
Related Cochise County Guides
The financial cost of impoundment in Cochise County includes a $150 administrative levy. This guide provides crucial information for navigating DWI court procedures in Cochise County, Arizona, focusing on the unique aspects of the local system.
The Bisbee-Sierra Vista Dichotomy
Cochise County operates on a "Dual-Hub" model with administrative functions centered in Bisbee and the population center in Sierra Vista. Bisbee houses the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) administration, the County Jail (Main Intake) at 203 N Judd Drive, and the Superior Court. Sierra Vista generates the most DUI arrests and is home to Justice Court Precinct 5 and a CCSO substation.
Impound and Towing Logistics
Following a DUI arrest, expect a 30-day vehicle impoundment under A.R.S. § 28-3511 if your license is suspended or in cases of Extreme/Aggravated DUI. This can become a logistical challenge due to limited administrative hours and specific payment requirements.
A critical point to note is the limited hours for vehicle release processing at the CCSO substation in Sierra Vista: Monday and Tuesday, 12-2 PM. Missing this window might require a trip to Bisbee on a Thursday.
Due to documented contradictions in official county information regarding approved locations to receive a Vehicle Release Form, it is highly recommended that defendants go to the Cochise County Sheriff's Office at 205 Judd Drive in Bisbee to ensure processing.
Financial Costs:
- Administrative Levy: $150.00, payable to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office (or the arresting municipal agency) in cash only. Exact change is strictly enforced.
- Towing Rate: Typically $150.00 - $250.00 plus mileage, regulated by DPS contractual limits.
- Storage Rate: Approximately $25.00 per day.
- Total Estimated Cost for 30-Day Impound: $150 (Admin) + $200 (Tow) + ($25 x 30 days) = $1,100
Bail Bonds, Detention & Jail Release
The Cochise County Jail's main intake is located in Bisbee at 203 N Judd Drive. The phone number is 520-432-7540.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
If your license is suspended and requires an interlock device, Arizona law requires that the tow yard must allow interlock installers access to your vehicle during business hours without charging an access fee. One authorized installer in Cochise County is Smart Start, located at 999 E Fry Blvd Ste 203 in Sierra Vista.
Cash and Calendar Constraints
If released from jail on a Tuesday afternoon after 2 PM, you'll miss the impound window in Sierra Vista. Since the office is closed Wednesday, you'll need to travel to Bisbee on Thursday. This delay adds 5 days of storage fees, costing an extra $125, plus the inconvenience of navigating without a car.
Visit the Cochise County Sheriff's Office at 205 Judd Drive, Bisbee, to begin the vehicle release process.
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