Clear Creek County Court Process

Navigating a DUI charge in Clear Creek County, Colorado, presents unique challenges. Unlike Denver or Boulder, Clear Creek's rural setting and high volume of "pass-through" traffic along I-70 create logistical hurdles that can significantly impact your case. This guide provides a detailed overview of the DUI process in Clear Creek County, from arrest to court, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Understanding the Clear Creek County DUI Landscape

Clear Creek County's DUI enforcement is heavily influenced by its location along the I-70 corridor, a major artery for ski tourism, commercial freight, and casino traffic. With a resident population of just over 9,000, the county sees a disproportionately high number of DUI arrests, many involving non-residents. This means you'll be dealing with a system geared towards processing a high volume of cases, often involving individuals who live outside the immediate area.

Arrest and Initial Steps

DUI enforcement in Clear Creek County is primarily handled by three agencies: the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office, and the Idaho Springs Police Department. If you're arrested, the arresting agency determines where your vehicle is impounded and where the initial police report is filed.

Action: If arrested, immediately ask the arresting officer which agency is handling the case and where your vehicle will be towed. This information is crucial for the next steps.

Sobriety checkpoints are common, particularly on Highway 6 in Clear Creek Canyon near the Z-Stop gas station. These checkpoints, often multi-agency operations, aim to intercept drivers avoiding I-70. Even if you legally turn around to avoid a checkpoint, be aware that "chase cars" may be watching for such maneuvers.

Jail and Bond

Following an arrest, you'll likely be taken to the Clear Creek County Jail at 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, CO 80444. You are entitled to a phone call, so use it to contact family, a bondsman, or an attorney.

Action: Upon release, request a "Bond Complaint Form" from the jail. This form allows you to file a grievance if you believe you were held longer than the legally mandated time for bond setting.

Bond amounts typically range from $500 to $1,000 for first or second misdemeanor DUI/DWAI offenses without injury. Felony DUI charges (3+ prior DUIs) can result in bonds ranging from $2,000 to $50,000.

Action: Have a money order or cashier's check ready for bond. Personal checks are not accepted. You can also deposit funds via the Access Corrections kiosk in the jail lobby.

Vehicle Impound and Recovery

Your vehicle will almost certainly be impounded after a DUI arrest in Clear Creek County. Law enforcement uses a rotation of private towing companies, including Evergreen Towing and Recovery and Georgetown Towing. To find out where your vehicle is, call the non-emergency dispatch at 303-980-7300.

Expect to pay significant towing and storage fees. The base towing rate is approximately $279.78 per hour for vehicles under 10,000 lbs, plus storage fees of $47.12 to $58.13 per 24-hour period. An after-hours release fee of approximately $103.70 also applies. A typical DUI impound retrieval (towed Friday night, picked up Monday morning) will likely cost between $500 and $800.

Action: Before heading to the tow yard, confirm there is no "Police Hold" on your vehicle. You'll need a valid photo ID, proof of ownership (registration or title), and valid insurance to retrieve your vehicle. If your license was seized, you must bring a licensed driver or have the vehicle towed.

Navigating the Court System

DUI cases in Clear Creek County are adjudicated at the Clear Creek County Courthouse, located at 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, CO 80444. The courthouse handles both County Court (misdemeanors) and District Court (felonies).

Action: Be aware of the courthouse operating hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The clerk's office is closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on the 1st Tuesday and 3rd Thursday of each month for staff meetings.

All entrants pass through metal detectors, and firearms are prohibited.

Key Takeaway

The Clear Creek County Courthouse phone number is (303) 569-0820. Call to confirm court dates and times.