Yuma County Bail Information

If you're arrested for DUI in Yuma County, Colorado, your vehicle will likely be towed by JR's Towing Service at 401 N Albany St in Yuma. Understanding the bail process and related logistics is crucial to navigating the legal system effectively. This guide provides specific information relevant to DUI arrests in Yuma County, helping you understand your rights and options.

Understanding DUI Charges and Initial Steps

In Colorado, a DUI arrest triggers two separate legal tracks: a criminal case handled by the 13th Judicial District courts and an administrative case managed by the Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR), specifically concerning your driver's license. The criminal case focuses on penalties and rehabilitation, while the administrative case addresses your driving privileges.

Immediately following a DUI arrest, the arresting officer will likely serve you with a "Notice of Revocation," which acts as a temporary 7-day driving permit. This starts a crucial countdown. You have exactly seven days from the date of this notice to request a hearing to contest the license revocation. This request must be made in writing or online through the DOR website. Missing this deadline results in an automatic and irreversible license revocation.

Bail and Release from Custody in Yuma County

Bail is a financial guarantee that you will appear in court as required. The amount of bail for a DUI in Yuma County depends on factors such as your prior criminal record, the severity of the offense, and whether there are any aggravating circumstances. Contact the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office in Wray to inquire about specific bail amounts and accepted forms of payment. Be aware that Yuma County may require cash-only bonds.

After posting bail, you will be released from custody and given a court date. It's imperative to attend all scheduled court appearances. Due to the "circuit" court logic in Yuma County, judges may travel between counties, making rescheduling difficult. Missing a court date could lead to a warrant for your arrest and forfeiture of your bail.

Navigating the Yuma County Court System

The Yuma County Combined Court, located in Wray, handles DUI cases. A significant challenge is the "in-person" mandate for court appearances. Unlike some jurisdictions that allow virtual hearings, Yuma County generally requires physical presence unless you have a specific order from the court stating otherwise. This means traveling to Wray, passing through security, and waiting for your case to be called, which can consume several hours for even brief status conferences.

For repeat offenders or cases involving high blood alcohol content (BAC), the 13th Judicial District may utilize a "Problem Solving Court" model, also known as DUI Court. This program involves weekly or bi-weekly court appearances, frequent random drug/alcohol testing, and mandatory therapy sessions. The logistical burden of frequent travel and testing can be particularly challenging in a rural setting like Yuma County, potentially leading to "technical violations" if you miss a test due to transportation issues.

Administrative License Suspension and Reinstatement

Parallel to the criminal case, the DOR will initiate administrative proceedings to suspend your driver's license. If you refused a chemical test or your BAC was 0.08 or higher, your license will be revoked. As mentioned earlier, you have only seven days to request a hearing to contest this revocation.

A significant hurdle in Yuma County is the lack of a full-service DMV office. While the Yuma County Clerk & Recorder in Wray and Yuma handles vehicle titles and license plates, they do not process driver's license reinstatements or hearings. To reinstate your license, obtain a restricted "Red License," or take a written test, you must travel to a State Driver License Office. The nearest options are in Sterling (714 W. Main St, approximately 50 miles from Wray) or Fort Morgan (approximately 70 miles from Wray). The Sterling office is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Reinstatement involves several steps, including paying a $95 reinstatement fee to the DOR, obtaining SR-22 insurance (which significantly increases premiums), and providing proof of an installed ignition interlock device if required.

Vehicle Impoundment and Retrieval

Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle will be impounded. In Yuma County, common towing services include Wiggins Junction Towing & Roadside and JR's Towing Service. Contact the towing company directly to inquire about impound fees and release requirements. Be prepared to present proof of ownership, valid insurance, and a valid driver's license (or have a licensed driver present to retrieve the vehicle). Impound fees can quickly accumulate, so it's essential to address this issue promptly.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Navigating a DUI arrest in Yuma County involves complex logistical and legal challenges. Here's a summary of actionable steps:

1. Immediately request a DOR hearing: Within 7 days of the "Notice of Revocation."
2. Contact the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office: Inquire about bail procedures and court dates.
3. Arrange transportation: Plan for frequent travel to Wray for court appearances and potential testing.
4. Prepare for license reinstatement: Gather necessary documents and funds for the Sterling DMV.

For assistance with forms, the court employs a "Self Represented Litigant Coordinator" (Sherlock) to assist with forms. Contact the Yuma County Combined Court for more information.