Santa Cruz County Court Process
Complete guide to arraignment, court dates, plea options, and what to expect during your case in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz County AttorneysThe Santa Cruz County Superior Court, located at 2150 N. Congress Drive in Nogales, also houses the Nogales Justice Court, creating a central hub for DUI proceedings in the region. Understanding the procedures in both courts is crucial for navigating your DWI case.
Do NOT Do These Things in Court
Entering a courtroom requires respect and adherence to specific rules. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Cell Phones: Cell phones are generally restricted in the courtroom. The Jury Commissioner explicitly warns against opening suspicious emails or texts related to jury duty on cell phones, implying a concern for digital security. At a minimum, silence your phone completely or, ideally, leave it in your vehicle.
- Food and Drinks: Consumption of food and beverages is strictly prohibited inside the courtroom.
- Inappropriate Attire: Dress respectfully. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with offensive graphics. Business casual is generally a safe bet.
- Speaking Out of Turn: Only speak when addressed by the judge. Interrupting the proceedings can result in a contempt of court charge.
- Tardiness: Arrive early to allow time for security screening and finding your courtroom. Being late can disrupt the proceedings and reflect poorly on your case.
Security Screening
| Prohibited Items | Allowed/What to Expect OF a peace officer must seize the driver's license and issue a 15-day temporary permit. The license is suspended for 90 days (or one year for refusal) unless the driver requests a hearing within 15 days.
| Prohibited Items | Allowed/What to Expect a peace officer must seize the driver's license and issue a 15-day temporary permit. The license is suspended for 90 days (or one year for refusal) unless the driver requests a hearing within 15 days.
| Prohibited Items | Allowed/What to Expect be secured.
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Weapons: All weapons are prohibited. Lockers are available at the main entrance for peace officers to secure firearms.
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Weapons: All weapons are prohibited. Lockers are available at the main entrance for peace officers to secure firearms.
Court Day Checklist
Ensure you have these items with you:
- Valid Photo Identification: A driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
- Court Paperwork/Summons: Any documents related to your case, including the citation, summons, or any notices you've received from the court.
- Proof of Bond (if applicable): If you've posted bail, bring documentation confirming the bond.
- Pen: For taking notes during the proceedings.
- Required Documents: Any documents
Sources
Arizona Penal Code
Santa Cruz County District Court
Arizona Court System
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