Lincoln County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Lincoln County, CO: Complete Guide

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Lincoln County

Being arrested for DUI in Lincoln County, Colorado, can be a stressful and confusing experience. This guide is designed to provide you with immediate, practical information about what to expect, the critical deadlines you need to be aware of, and the steps you need to take to protect your rights. We'll walk you through the initial process, from booking to bail, and outline the key aspects of your case, including court proceedings, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. This guide is specifically tailored to Lincoln County to help you understand any local nuances.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The hours following a DUI arrest are crucial. Here's a general timeline of what to expect:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: After being pulled over, the officer likely administered field sobriety tests (FSTs) and possibly a preliminary breath test (PBT). These tests are used to establish probable cause for a DUI arrest.
• Chemical Test: You were likely asked to submit to a chemical test, either a breath test (using a device like an Intoxilyzer) or a blood test, to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). Refusal to submit to a chemical test can result in an automatic license suspension, separate from any DUI conviction.
• Transportation to Lincoln County Jail: Following the arrest, you were transported to the Lincoln County Jail for booking.
• Booking Process: The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording your personal information. Your belongings will be inventoried and stored.
• Phone Calls: You will be allowed to make phone calls, typically after the booking process is complete. Prioritize contacting a DUI attorney and a family member or friend.
• Bail: Bail is set to ensure your appearance in court. The amount of bail in Lincoln County can vary depending on the circumstances of your arrest, your prior criminal history (if any), and the severity of the charges.

Bail in Lincoln County: While specific bail amounts fluctuate, in Colorado, bail for a first-time DUI offense typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. This can be paid in cash, through a surety bond (obtained through a bail bondsman), or, in some cases, through a personal recognizance bond (a promise to appear in court).

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in a DUI case. Be aware of the following:

• ALR (Administrative License Revocation) Hearing Deadline: In Colorado, if your BAC was 0.08 or higher, or if you refused to take a chemical test, your driver's license will likely be suspended. You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing with the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This hearing is separate from your criminal court case and challenges the license suspension. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic license suspension.
• First Court Appearance (Arraignment): You will receive a summons with a date and time for your first court appearance, called an arraignment. At the arraignment, you will be formally advised of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). Missing this court date will likely result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you don't request an ALR hearing or if you lose the hearing, your license suspension will typically begin 30 days after your arrest. The length of the suspension varies depending on the circumstances of the case and any prior DUI convictions.

DUI Enforcement in Lincoln County

Lincoln County, like other counties in Colorado, takes DUI enforcement seriously. Expect to see increased patrol activity during holidays and special events. Officers are trained to recognize the signs of impaired driving and will conduct thorough investigations. Because Lincoln County is a more rural area, driving is essential. This fact can influence the perceived severity of a DUI offense.

Local Resources

Here's some general information on where to find important resources in Lincoln County.

• Lincoln County Court Information: Unfortunately, specific courthouse data is unavailable at this time. However, the Lincoln County court is where your criminal case will be heard. You can typically find general information on the Colorado Judicial Branch website or by contacting the court clerk's office.
• Bail Bondsmen in the Area: A bail bondsman can help you secure your release from jail by posting a surety bond. A quick online search for "bail bondsmen Lincoln County CO" will provide you with contact information for local companies. Remember to compare rates and terms before making a decision.
• DUI Attorneys: Consulting with an experienced DUI attorney is highly recommended. An attorney can review the details of your case, advise you of your rights, and represent you in court. Search online directories for "DUI attorneys Colorado" to find qualified lawyers in the state. This guide does not provide specific attorney recommendations.

What Makes Lincoln County Different

While Colorado DUI laws are consistent statewide, there are potential local nuances to be aware of in Lincoln County:

• Rural Context: As a rural county, transportation options are limited. This can influence the court's perspective on the impact of a DUI conviction on your ability to maintain employment and access essential services.
• Limited Resources: Compared to larger metropolitan areas, Lincoln County may have fewer resources available for alcohol education and treatment programs. However, your attorney can help you identify available options.
• Typical Bail Amounts: As mentioned earlier, bail amounts for first-time DUI offenses in Colorado generally range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. The specific amount in your case will depend on the details of your arrest and your prior criminal history.

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified DUI attorney to discuss the specific circumstances of your case and protect your rights.