ArizonaGreenlee CountyCourt Process

Greenlee County Court Process

Complete guide to arraignment, court dates, plea options, and what to expect during your case in Greenlee County.

Court Information

Court Process Timeline

1

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
2

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
3

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
4

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 Greenlee County Attorneys

DUI Arrested in Greenlee County? Your First 48 Hours Could Save Your Job

If you've been arrested for DUI in Greenlee County, Arizona, the clock is ticking. Unlike urban areas, a DUI here presents a unique threat: the potential loss of your job at Freeport-McMoRan or with one of its contractors. The next 48 hours are critical to protecting your livelihood and navigating the complex legal landscape. This guide provides actionable steps to take immediately following a DUI arrest in Greenlee County.

The Mine's Shadow: Reporting Requirements and Your Job

For many Greenlee County residents, a DUI arrest is secondary to the immediate threat of job loss. Freeport-McMoRan and its contractors typically have strict "Self-Reporting" policies.

The Rule: You must report any arrest (not just a conviction) to HR or your supervisor, typically within 24-48 hours. Failing to do so can result in immediate termination, even if the DUI charges are later dropped.

The Trap: Do not assume you can wait until a conviction. Companies actively monitor public booking logs. If they discover the arrest before you report it, you could be fired for violating company policy.

Action: Immediately review your employment contract regarding arrest reporting. Consult with an attorney before reporting, if possible, but do not miss the reporting deadline.

The First 48-Hour Checklist: Protecting Your Rights and Your Job

Here's a step-by-step guide to navigate the critical hours after a DUI arrest in Greenlee County:

  1. Silence is Golden: Do not discuss the facts of your case on jail phones. Calls from the jail (HomeWAV) are recorded. Avoid discussing your case with cellmates.

  2. Secure Bail: If you cannot afford cash bail, contact Triple B Bail Bonds at (928) 428-2678. They are familiar with the Greenlee County court system.

  3. Locate Your Vehicle: Call the Greenlee County Sheriff's Office (GCSO) at (928) 865-4149 to find out where your car was impounded. It's likely been towed to Safford or Graham County.

  4. Impound Hearing (If Applicable): If your vehicle was impounded under A.R.S. 28-3511 (DUI law), you must request an Impound Hearing immediately. You have only 10 days to do so. Be prepared to pay a $150 cash Sheriff's Admin Fee.

  5. Protect Your License: File an Executive Hearing Request with the Arizona MVD immediately to attempt to stay the suspension of your driver's license. You have only 15 days from the date of the administrative suspension notice to request this hearing.

  6. Employer Notification: Review your employment contract regarding arrest reporting. Consult an attorney before reporting if possible, but do not miss the reporting deadline.

  7. Retain Local Counsel: Hire an attorney familiar with the Greenlee and Graham County court systems. A "Phoenix lawyer" may charge travel fees that significantly increase the cost of representation.

Badge Access and Stop Work Authority: The Mine's Response

A DUI arrest can trigger a suspension of your site access privileges at Freeport-McMoRan. Without a badge, you cannot work. Furthermore, if the DUI involved a refusal to submit to testing or a high BAC (Blood Alcohol Content), the company may view you as a safety risk and place you on administrative leave pending a substance abuse evaluation.

Action: Addressing the DUI charges swiftly and strategically is crucial to mitigating the impact on your employment.

Navigating the Greenlee County Court System

Greenlee County has two Justice Courts:

  • Clifton Justice Court: Located in Clifton, the county seat.
  • Duncan Justice Court: Located in Duncan.

Understanding which court your case will be heard in is essential for logistical planning.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Installation

If your license is suspended and you are eligible for restricted driving privileges, you will need to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). The nearest installation hubs are in Safford:

  • Smart Start: 1153 W Thatcher Blvd, Safford
  • LifeSafer Ignition Interlock: Right Stop Garage, Safford
  • Intoxalock: Various locations in Safford

Towing and Impound Fees: A Hidden Cost

Your vehicle was likely towed by Nuttall's Towing LLC in Safford or Magnum Towing. Be prepared for towing and storage fees, which can quickly add up. While specific rates vary, expect to pay hundreds of dollars to retrieve your vehicle.

Next Steps: Contacting the Greenlee County Sheriff's Office

To locate your vehicle and inquire about impound procedures, contact the Greenlee County Sheriff's Office at (928) 865-4149.

Sources

Arizona Penal Code

Greenlee County District Court

Arizona Court System

Back to Arizona DUI Guide

24/7 Legal Support

Need a Attorney in Greenlee County?

Get connected with experienced attorneys who know Greenlee County courts and can fight for the best outcome.

Talk To An Attorney