La Plata County Bail Information

La Plata County Bail Process After DUI Arrest

(dui.guide - Your Guide to Navigating DUI Charges in La Plata County)

Being arrested for a DUI in La Plata County, Colorado, can be a frightening experience. Your immediate concern is likely getting out of jail. This guide will walk you through the bail process in La Plata County, explaining your options and helping you understand what to expect.

Understanding Bail in La Plata County

Bail is essentially a financial guarantee that you will appear in court for all scheduled hearings related to your DUI charge. It's a system designed to ensure your presence and prevent you from fleeing the jurisdiction. In La Plata County, the amount of bail is typically set by a judge or based on a pre-determined bail schedule. The amount can vary depending on the severity of the alleged offense, your criminal history (if any), and your ties to the community. If you fail to appear in court after posting bail, you forfeit the bail money, and a warrant will be issued for your arrest.

Typical Bail Amounts for DUI

While specific bail amounts are ultimately determined by the court, you can expect the following general ranges for DUI offenses in La Plata County:

• First Offense: $500 - $1,500
• With Injury: $2,000 - $5,000 (potentially higher depending on the severity of the injuries)
• With Prior Offenses: $1,500 - $5,000 (or higher, depending on the number and nature of prior offenses)

Important Note: These are estimates only. The actual bail amount can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances of your case.

How to Post Bail in La Plata County

You have several options for posting bail in La Plata County:

Option 1: Cash Bail

• How it Works: You pay the full bail amount directly to the La Plata County jail. This is the most straightforward method.
• Refund: After your case concludes (whether through dismissal, plea bargain, or trial), you are typically entitled to a refund of approximately 90% of the bail amount. The remaining 10% is often kept by the court as an administrative fee.
• Where to Pay: You can pay cash bail at the La Plata County Jail, located at . Contact the jail directly for specific payment instructions.
• Payment Methods: Accepted payment methods generally include cash. Check with the La Plata County Jail to confirm if they accept cashier's checks or money orders. Personal checks are typically not accepted.

Option 2: Bail Bondsman

• How it Works: You pay a non-refundable fee (typically 10-15% of the total bail amount) to a licensed bail bondsman. The bondsman then posts the full bail amount on your behalf.
• Fee is Non-Refundable: Remember, this fee is not returned to you, regardless of the outcome of your case.
• What You'll Need: To secure a bail bond, you'll likely need to provide the bondsman with:
• Valid photo identification (driver's license, passport)
• Contact information for yourself and close family/friends
• Potentially, collateral (e.g., car title, valuable jewelry)
• A co-signer (someone who agrees to be financially responsible if you fail to appear)
• Local Bail Bondsmen Near La Plata County Jail: Search online for "bail bondsman La Plata County CO" to find local options. Consider calling several to compare rates and terms. Ensure they are licensed and reputable.

Option 3: Property Bond

• How it Works: You use real estate (land or a house) as collateral to secure your release. The court places a lien on the property.
• Property Value: The property must typically be worth 150-200% of the bail amount to adequately cover the risk.
• Processing Time: Property bonds take significantly longer to process than cash bail or bail bonds. The court needs to assess the property's value and ensure clear title.
• Considerations: This option is less common due to the time and effort involved in the valuation and lien process. Consult with an attorney before pursuing a property bond.

Option 4: Personal Recognizance (PR Bond)

• How it Works: You are released from jail on your "own recognizance," meaning you promise to appear in court without having to pay any bail money.
• Eligibility: PR bonds are more common for first-time offenders with strong ties to the community (e.g., stable employment, family in the area, long-term residency).
• Factors Considered: The judge will consider factors such as your criminal history, flight risk, and the seriousness of the DUI charge.
• La Plata County Specifics: . It's best to discuss your eligibility for a PR bond with your attorney.

Timeline: How Long Until Release?

• Typical Processing Time at La Plata County Jail: Once bail is posted, the release process can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours. This timeframe depends on the jail's workload and staffing levels.
• Best Times to Post Bail: Posting bail earlier in the day is generally preferable, as it allows more time for processing. Avoid posting bail late at night or on weekends, as staffing may be limited.
• What Can Delay Release: Delays can occur due to:
• High jail population
• Incomplete paperwork
• Outstanding warrants
• Medical conditions requiring clearance

What Happens After Posting Bail

• Conditions of Release: You will likely be subject to specific conditions of release, such as:
• Abstaining from alcohol and drugs
• Avoiding contact with the alleged victim (if applicable)
• Surrendering your passport (if deemed a flight risk)
• Attending mandatory alcohol education classes
• Installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle (may be required even before conviction, depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the judge's discretion).
• When You Must Appear in Court: You will be given a court date (typically for an arraignment) when you are released. This date is crucial. Mark it on your calendar and make arrangements to attend.
• What Happens if You Miss Court: Failing to appear in court is a serious offense. It will result in:
• Forfeiture of your bail money
• Issuance of a warrant for your arrest
• Additional criminal charges (failure to appear)

Special Considerations in La Plata County

[Important: This section needs to be populated with La Plata County-specific information. Research county policies, programs, and procedures related to bail after a DUI arrest. Examples of information to include, if available:]

• La Plata County Pretrial Services: Does the county have a pretrial services program that assesses defendants for risk and recommends release conditions to the judge?
• Specific Judges' Practices: Are there any known tendencies or preferences of specific judges regarding bail amounts or release conditions in DUI cases?
• Local DUI Courts or Programs: Does La Plata County have specialized DUI courts or programs that might influence the bail process or release conditions?
• Any specific requirements for DUI offenders related to reporting or treatment before trial.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about the bail process in La Plata County, Colorado. It is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney. If you have been arrested for DUI, it is crucial to consult with an experienced DUI lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights and options. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your interests.