Weld County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Weld County, CO: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Weld County can be a disorienting experience. With a growing population and a hybrid environment of both suburban and rural areas, the county's judicial and law enforcement systems are under pressure. This guide provides immediate, practical information to help you navigate the process, understand your rights, and make informed decisions. With Weld County's population increasing by 40% between 2000 and 2015, significantly outpacing state averages, the system can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to clarify the specific procedures and resources available to you.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Weld County

After a DUI arrest in Weld County, you'll face a series of legal and administrative procedures. This guide is designed to help you understand each step, from the initial arrest and booking to court appearances and license suspension hearings. We'll cover the critical deadlines, local resources, and unique aspects of the Weld County legal landscape to help you navigate this challenging time.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

Here's a timeline of what typically happens within the first 24 hours after a DUI arrest in Weld County:

• Arrest and Initial Processing: You will be arrested by a law enforcement officer (likely from the Weld County Sheriff's Office or a municipal police department within the county).
• Transportation to Jail: You will be transported to the Weld County Jail.
• Booking: At the jail, you will be processed, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording your personal information.
• Phone Call: You will generally be allowed to make a phone call shortly after booking. Use this opportunity to contact a loved one or an attorney.
• Bail Hearing: Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to post bail and be released. The bail amount will vary depending on the severity of the charges and your prior criminal history.
• Release: Once bail is posted (if applicable), you will be released from jail with a court date.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in your DUI case. Here are some key dates to keep in mind:

• ALR Hearing Request: 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, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your driver's license will be suspended.
• First Court Appearance (Arraignment): You will be notified of your first court date, called an arraignment, upon your release. This is where you will be formally advised of the charges against you and enter a plea.
• License Suspension: If you do not request an ALR hearing or if you lose the hearing, your license will be suspended, typically 30 days after your arrest.

DUI Enforcement in Weld County

Due to Weld County's large geographic area and mix of urban and rural environments, DUI enforcement can vary depending on location and time of year. With energy extraction and agriculture being significant economic drivers, there is a high volume of commercial vehicle traffic, which can lead to increased traffic enforcement interactions. While specific DUI checkpoint locations aren't publicly advertised, increased patrols are common during holidays and weekends. Be especially aware of increased enforcement near Greeley and Evans, where population density is higher.

Local Resources

• Weld County Centennial Center (Courthouse): 915 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80631. This is the main courthouse for criminal arraignments and trials. Phone: (970) 475-2400.
• Weld County Courthouse: 901 9th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631. This building typically houses specialized dockets such as the Water Court (Division 1) and Probate matters.
• Plaza West: 910 10th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631. This building houses Probation Services and the Transcript Request department.
• Clerk of the Court: Located within the Weld County Centennial Center.
• Self-Help Center: Located within the Weld County Centennial Center.
• Bail Bondsmen: (General info, no specific recommendations - search online for "Bail Bonds Weld County CO")
• DUI Attorneys: (General info, no specific recommendations - search online for "DUI Attorney Weld County CO")

What Makes Weld County Different

Weld County's unique characteristics influence the DUI process. The county's sheer size (over 4,000 square miles) means that law enforcement response times can vary greatly, especially in rural areas. Given that approximately 32% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, ensure that you request a Spanish-language interpreter if needed to ensure due process. The 19th Judicial District strictly enforces security protocols, including a ban on recording inside the courthouse (Canon 3 rule) without written permission from Judicial Administration. Remember to arrive 10-15 minutes early to navigate the security checkpoint at the Weld County Centennial Center, as weapons, knives, and chemical agents are prohibited. The court facilities operate from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding state and federal holidays.

Next Step: Request your ALR hearing with the Colorado DMV within 10 days of your arrest. You can find the necessary forms and instructions on the Colorado DMV website.