Morgan County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Morgan County, CO: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Morgan County, Colorado can feel overwhelming, especially given the county's rural character. The loss of driving privileges can have a significant impact on your daily life and livelihood. This guide provides immediate, practical information to help you navigate the legal process, understand your rights, and take the necessary steps to protect your future. Unlike metropolitan areas, Morgan County's vast geography presents unique challenges, making it crucial to act quickly and strategically. This guide will help you understand those challenges and how to address them.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Morgan County

After a DUI arrest in Morgan County, you'll face a complex legal and administrative process. The immediate aftermath involves booking, potential jail time, and the impoundment of your vehicle. Understanding the specific procedures in Morgan County is critical. The economic realities also play a key role. With a median household income around $36,546, the financial burden of a DUI – towing fees, bail, court costs, and interlock device expenses – can be substantial. This guide will walk you through each step, providing clarity and resources to help you manage this challenging situation.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

• Traffic Stop and Arrest: The process begins with a traffic stop, typically conducted by the Fort Morgan Police Department (FMPD) within city limits, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) in unincorporated areas, or the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), particularly along the I-76 corridor and Highway 34.
• Booking: After the arrest, you'll be taken to the Morgan County jail, located within the Detention Division. The exact location is available on the Morgan County website.
• Processing: Expect to be processed, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and a health screening.
• Phone Calls: You have the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls. Use these calls to contact family, a bail bondsman, or an attorney.
• Bail: A judge will determine your bail amount. According to the 13th Judicial District's procedures, bail schedules have been rescinded, so the bail amount will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Keep in mind that even a seemingly modest cash bond of $1,000-$2,000 can represent a significant financial burden, potentially requiring the involvement of a surety agent.
• Release: Once bail is posted, you'll be released with a court date. Remember to keep all paperwork provided to you.

Critical Deadlines

• ALR Hearing (Express Consent): You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Colorado Department of Revenue. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your driver's license will be suspended. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic license suspension. Information about Express Consent cases can be found on the Colorado Department of Revenue website.
• First Court Appearance (Arraignment): Your first court appearance, or arraignment, will be scheduled shortly after your arrest. This is where you'll be formally charged with DUI. The date, time, and location (Morgan Combined Court) will be on your release paperwork.
• License Suspension: If you don't request an ALR hearing, or if you lose the hearing, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension depends on the specifics of your case and prior offenses.

DUI Enforcement in Morgan County

The Colorado State Patrol maintains a strong presence on I-76 and Highway 34, making these areas prime locations for DUI enforcement. While specific DUI checkpoint locations are not publicly advertised, increased enforcement is common during holidays and weekends. Be especially cautious during these times. While specific numbers of DUI arrests were not available in the provided data, the emphasis on traffic enforcement by multiple agencies suggests that DUI enforcement is a priority in Morgan County.

Local Resources

• Morgan Combined Court: 400 Warner St, Fort Morgan, CO 80701. Phone number available on the Colorado Judicial Branch website.
• Morgan County Sheriff's Office (Detention Division): Information available on the Morgan County website.
• Wiggins Junction Towing & Roadside: Multiple locations including Wiggins, Sterling, Byers, and Brighton. Find contact information on their website.
• Ignition Interlock Providers:
• Smart Start: 1128 E Burlington Ave, Fort Morgan, CO 80701. Phone number available on their website.
• LifeSafer Ignition Interlock: Cyclone Diesel, Ft. Morgan, CO 80701. Phone number available on their website.
• DUI Attorneys: (General information – consult the Colorado Bar Association for referrals)

What Makes Morgan County Different

Morgan County presents unique challenges due to its rural nature and demographic composition. Here's what sets it apart:

• Geographic Displacement: The "rotation list" system for towing services, with vendors like Wiggins Junction Towing & Roadside serving a wide area, means your vehicle could be impounded miles away from the arrest site in towns like Wiggins or Sterling. This adds a significant logistical hurdle to retrieving your car.
• Economic Vulnerability: With a median household income of approximately $36,546, the financial burden of a DUI can be particularly challenging. The costs associated with bail, court fees, and interlock devices can quickly strain household finances.
• Linguistic Considerations: A significant portion of the population speaks a language other than English at home. While court interpreters are available, it's important to ensure you understand all instructions and paperwork related to your case, from impound release forms to interlock device operation. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or assistance.
• Transportation Challenges: Due to the rural nature of Morgan County, public transportation options are limited. The loss of driving privileges can severely impact your ability to get to work, court appointments, and other essential activities.

Remember, the ALR hearing deadline is 10 days from your arrest. Contact the Colorado Department of Revenue immediately to schedule your hearing and protect your driving privileges.