Pueblo County DUI Court Guide

Recent Colorado legislative reforms, specifically the Towing Bill of Rights, have introduced protections against predatory towing, but these largely apply to private property tows. For a DUI arrest in Pueblo County, the nuances of the "Drop Charge" are critical but often misunderstood.

Pueblo County DUI Court Procedures: A Local Guide

This guide provides Pueblo County residents facing DUI charges with an overview of local court procedures, potential friction points, and practical advice for navigating the legal process. It focuses on the specific nuances of the 10th Judicial District and Pueblo's unique logistical challenges.

Courthouse Location and Security

The 10th Judicial District is located at the Dennis Maes Judicial Building, 501 N. Elizabeth Street, Pueblo, CO 81003. Expect airport-style security screening upon entry, which can cause delays, especially at 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to clear security. A rigorous ban on electronic devices for non-attorneys is enforced in courtrooms. Cell phones must be set to vibrate and silent. You cannot use your phone to check your calendar, text, or look up phone numbers while in the courtroom.

Bond Hearings and Schedules

Bond hearings are held in Division 101 on Mondays at 11:30 AM, Tuesday through Friday at 2:30 PM, and Saturdays at 1:30 PM. If you are arrested on Friday night and miss the Saturday hearing, you may remain in custody until Monday morning. Pueblo County utilizes a standard bond schedule where a Felony DUI (Class 4) carries a reference bond of $10,000. Monitored abstinence (UA testing or ankle monitor), costing $10-$15 per day, is a mandatory condition of bond for Felony DUI, requiring immediate enrollment in a sobriety program.

Parking at the Courthouse

Parking at the Judicial Building is free. However, the main lot fills up quickly, especially on jury trial days. The "6th Street Mall" parking lot is the designated overflow. Be aware that parking is strictly enforced. Parking in "Fire Lanes" on 9th Street and 9th Avenue results in a $50.00 ticket. Parking in surrounding private business lots may result in immediate towing.

DMV Administrative Peril

Upon arrest, if you took a breath test (failed) or refused testing, the officer will serve you a "Notice of Revocation." This yellow paper acts as a temporary 7-day license. You have 7 days (including weekends) to request a hearing with the DMV. Missing this deadline results in automatic license revocation on the 8th day. Hearings are typically conducted remotely (Zoom/Phone).

The Pueblo Driver License Office is located at 827 W. 4th St, Pueblo, CO 81003. It is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Reinstatement involves a specific sequence of actions: Obtaining SR-22 insurance, installing an interlock device (if required), paying a $95 fee, and clearing any holds on your license. Appointments are strongly recommended due to high volume; schedule via mydmv.colorado.gov.

Transit Options to the Courthouse

The Pueblo Transit Center is located at 123 Court Street, within walking distance (5-6 blocks) of the Judicial Building. Most bus routes radiate from the Transit Center. Route 10 (Belmont) serves the university and northeast side, feeding into the transit center. The bus service operates Monday-Saturday, 6:00 AM - 5:30 PM. There is no service on Sundays.

Self-Help Resources

The Self-Help Center is located in the courthouse, open Monday-Friday 9am-4pm (Fri until 12pm). They assist with forms but cannot give legal advice. To pay fines, visit the collections window. Failure to pay court costs results in a bench warrant.

To schedule an interlock device, Intoxalock can be reached at Family Automotive located at 2124 B South Prairie Ave.