Adams County DUI Bail Guide
Bail amounts, how bonds work, and what to expect when getting released in Thornton, Brighton, and Adams County.
Last verified: January 2026
DUI Bail Amounts
| Offense | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| 1st Offense (DWAI/DUI) | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| 2nd Offense | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Felony (3rd+ / Vehicular Assault) | $15,000+ |
| With Child Passenger | $10,000+ |
| BAC 0.15%+ (PDD) | Higher Range |
Amounts vary by criminal history, BAC level, and circumstances. Bondsman fee: 10-15% (non-refundable). Colorado's bail reform means more PR bonds may be available.
Where to Post Bail
How Bail Bonds Work
The Process
Contact a bondsman
Available 24/7
Pay 10-15% fee
Non-refundable premium
Bondsman posts bail
They guarantee the court
You're released
Must attend all court dates
Co-Signer Warning
If you co-sign, you are legally responsible if the defendant fails to appear.
- 100% liable for full bail amount
- Collateral (house, car) can be seized
- Cannot cancel once signed
Release Timeline
Booking
2-6 hrsFingerprints, photos, background check
Advisement
24-48 hrsJudge sets bail amount
Bail Posted
1-4 hrsPaperwork signed, fee paid
Release
2-4 hrsProperty returned
Booking
2-6 hours
Fingerprints, photos, background check
Advisement
24-48 hours
Judge sets bail amount
Bail Posted
1-4 hours
Paperwork signed
Release
2-4 hours
Property returned
Total: 8-24 Hours
Weekends and holidays take longer. Adams County Detention Facility can be busy.
FAQ
The Adams County Detention Facility (ACDF) is located at 150 North 19th Ave., Brighton, CO 80601. This facility serves as the central processing hub for the county following a DUI arrest.
Local Bail Schedule
For standard DUI offenses in Adams County, a presumptive bond schedule is used to determine eligibility for release without waiting for a court appearance.
- Misdemeanor DUI: The standard bond amount is typically set around $1,000.
- DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired): The bond for this lesser offense is set slightly lower, typically $800.
- Class B & C Misdemeanors: For associated drug charges or other classifications, the schedule lists amounts such as $550 plus a surety amount for Class B Drug Misdemeanors.
If the defendant has prior alcohol convictions, “Monitored Sobriety” is a mandatory condition of bond release.
Release Timeline
Upon arrest, the defendant is transported to the Adams County Detention Facility (ACDF) for booking. The booking process involves biometric data collection (fingerprints, photos), health screening, and classification. Once booked, the defendant’s eligibility for release is determined either by the pre-set bond schedule or a hearing before a magistrate.
Where to Post Bail
The Adams County Detention Facility (ACDF) is located at 150 North 19th Ave., Brighton, CO 80601.
Related Guides
24/7 Legal Support
Need a DUI Attorney in Adams County?
Get connected with experienced DUI attorneys who know Adams County courts and can fight for the best outcome.