Mesa County Bail Information

Mesa County Bail Process After DUI Arrest

(dui.guide - Your Guide to DUI in Mesa County, CO)

Being arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Mesa County, Colorado, can be a frightening experience. Your immediate concern is likely getting out of jail. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step explanation of the bail process in Mesa County, helping you understand your options and what to expect. We're here to provide practical guidance during this stressful time.

Understanding Bail in Mesa County

Bail is essentially a financial guarantee that you will appear in court as required. It's a way for the court to ensure you don't flee while your case is pending. In Mesa County, as in most of Colorado, the amount of bail is set by a judge or according to a pre-determined bail schedule. The specific amount depends on the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and other factors. Once bail is posted, you are released from custody with the understanding that you must adhere to certain conditions and appear in court when summoned. If you fail to appear, the bail money is forfeited, and a warrant may be issued for your arrest.

Typical Bail Amounts for DUI

While the exact bail amount is determined on a case-by-case basis, here's a general idea of what you might expect for a DUI arrest in Mesa County. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary:

• First Offense: $500 - $2,500
• With Injury: $2,500 - $10,000 (or higher, depending on the severity of the injuries)
• With Prior Offenses: $2,000 - $5,000 (or higher, depending on the number and nature of prior offenses)

It is important to consult with an attorney as quickly as possible, as they can advise you on the specifics of your case and advocate for a lower bail amount.

How to Post Bail in Mesa County

You have several options for posting bail in Mesa County:

Option 1: Cash Bail

• How it Works: You pay the full bail amount directly to the Mesa County jail. This is the most straightforward method.
• Getting Your Money Back: After your case concludes (whether through a plea agreement, dismissal, or trial), typically around 90% of the bail money is returned to you, minus any court fees or fines.
• Where to Pay: You can pay cash bail at the Mesa County Detention Facility, located at .
• Payment Methods Accepted: Typically, the jail accepts cash, certified checks, and money orders. Credit cards are generally not accepted. Contact the Detention Facility directly to confirm acceptable payment methods.

Option 2: Bail Bondsman

• How it Works: You pay a non-refundable fee (usually 10-15% of the total bail amount) to a bail bondsman. The bondsman then guarantees the full bail amount to the court.
• Benefits: This is a good option if you don't have the cash to pay the full bail amount yourself.
• What You'll Need: To secure a bond, you'll typically need:
• Valid Photo ID (driver's license, passport)
• Information about the arrest (charges, booking number)
• Collateral (may be required, depending on the amount and your credit) - this could be a car title, jewelry, or other valuable assets.
• Co-signer (may be required, particularly if you have limited credit or employment history).
• Local Bail Bondsmen near Mesa County Jail: Search online for "bail bonds Mesa County CO" to find reputable and licensed bondsmen. It's always a good idea to call a few and compare their fees and requirements.

Option 3: Property Bond

• How it Works: You use real estate (property) as collateral to secure your release.
• Requirements: The property's value must typically be 150-200% of the bail amount. You'll need to provide documentation proving ownership and value (e.g., a recent appraisal).
• Drawbacks: This process is generally more time-consuming than cash bail or using a bail bondsman. It requires the court to assess the property's value and place a lien on it.
• Considerations: Property bonds are less common than other methods and may not be accepted in all cases.

Option 4: Personal Recognizance (PR Bond)

• How it Works: You are released on your promise to appear in court. No money is required upfront.
• Eligibility: PR bonds are more common for first-time offenders with strong ties to the community (e.g., stable employment, family in the area). The judge will consider your criminal history, the severity of the charges, and your risk of flight.
• Mesa County Specifics: [Research and add information about Mesa County's specific criteria for granting PR bonds. Does the county have a pre-trial services program that assesses eligibility?] Discuss this option with your attorney, who can advocate for a PR bond on your behalf.

Timeline: How Long Until Release?

• Typical Processing Time at Mesa County Jail: After bail is posted, it can take several hours for processing and release. Expect anywhere from 2-6 hours.
• Best Times to Post Bail: Weekday mornings are generally the best time to post bail, as court staff and jail personnel are typically readily available. Weekends and holidays can result in longer processing times.
• What Can Delay Release: Delays can occur due to:
• High volume of arrestees
• Staff shortages
• Computer system issues
• Outstanding warrants

What Happens After Posting Bail

• Conditions of Release: You will likely be subject to certain conditions of release, such as:
• Abstaining from alcohol and drugs
• Attending all court hearings
• Avoiding contact with the alleged victim (if applicable)
• Staying within Mesa County (or Colorado) unless permitted otherwise.
• When You Must Appear in Court: You will be given a court date for your arraignment (your first court appearance). This date is crucial.
• What Happens if You Miss Court: If you fail to appear in court as required, a warrant will be issued for your arrest, and your bail money will be forfeited.

Special Considerations in Mesa County

[Research and add any county-specific bail procedures, programs, or policies relevant to Mesa County DUI arrests. For example: Does Mesa County have a pre-trial services program that assesses defendants for risk and recommends release conditions? Are there any specific local court rules related to bail in DUI cases?]

• Example (Needs Verification): "Mesa County utilizes a pre-trial services program that evaluates individuals arrested for DUI to determine their risk of re-offending or failing to appear in court. This assessment can influence the judge's decision regarding bail and release conditions."

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified DUI attorney in Mesa County as soon as possible after your arrest. An attorney can advise you on your rights, help you navigate the legal process, and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case. They can also help you understand the specific bail requirements and conditions that apply to your situation.