Prowers County Court Process

The Prowers County Combined Court in Lamar acts as the gravitational center of the 15th Judicial District. The legal culture is characterized by a "small bar" dynamic, where reputation and personal relationships between defense counsel, prosecutors, and the bench are paramount.

DWI Court Procedures in Prowers County, Colorado

Navigating a Driving While Impaired (DWI) charge in Prowers County requires understanding the local court system and procedures. This guide provides key information to help you navigate the Prowers County Combined Court and the 15th Judicial District.

The 15th Judicial District Architecture

Prowers County operates within the 15th Judicial District, which also includes Baca, Cheyenne, and Kiowa counties. The Prowers County Combined Court in Lamar serves as the central hub. Be aware that judicial resources are shared across these counties.

Judges in Prowers County

Your case will likely be heard by one of two judges:

• Judge Lane Porter: Presides over the County Court, where most misdemeanor DUIs are heard. He is a former Deputy District Attorney for the 15th Judicial District, bringing a deep understanding of prosecutorial strategies to the bench. Judge Porter is known for running an efficient and precise docket.
• Judge Mike Davidson: Serves as the District Court Judge.

Representation in a "Small Bar" Legal Community

The legal community in Lamar is a "Small Bar" environment, meaning there are a limited number of attorneys. This dynamic emphasizes the importance of reputation and relationships.

• Public Defenders: The Office of the State Public Defender provides representation to indigent clients. These attorneys possess significant knowledge of the local court.
• Private Counsel: Private attorneys are available. RiverHawk Fox LLC, located at 122 N. Main Street, is a local option. Be cautious about hiring attorneys from Denver or Colorado Springs, as their strategies may not align with local court procedures.

Vehicle Impound and Recovery

After a DWI arrest, your vehicle will likely be impounded. Here's how to navigate the process:

1. Identify the Tow Company: Contact the dispatch of the arresting agency (Lamar PD at 719-336-4341 or PCSO at 719-336-8050) to find out which company towed your vehicle.
2. Check for a "Law Enforcement Hold": Before going to the tow yard, ask the dispatch if there is a hold on your vehicle.
3. Obtain a Release Form: If there is a hold, visit the Lamar Police Department at 102 E Parmenter to obtain a hard-copy release form. The tow yard cannot release the vehicle without this form.
4. Bring a Licensed Driver: The tow operator will not release the car to an unlicensed driver. Bring someone with a valid driver's license.
5. Retrieve Life-Essential Property: You have the right to access your vehicle to retrieve identification, prescription medications, and child restraint systems without paying the tow bill.

Bond Administration

The Prowers County Jail, located at 103 East Oak Street in Lamar, is the detention facility. The 15th Judicial District uses a Bond Schedule for warrantless arrests, allowing many DUI defendants to bond out before seeing a judge. Be aware of potential "cash only" requirements or fees associated with kiosk payments. The jail enforces a Sober Release Policy. Release may be delayed until your Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) drops below a certain level or after an observation period.

For bond information or related matters, call the jail's main administrative line at 719-336-8050.