Weld County DUI Court Guide
Everything you need to know about appearing in court for your DUI case in Weld County (Greeley).
Last verified: January 2026
Weld County Court
About Weld County Court
Weld County Court handles misdemeanor DUI and DWAI cases, while Weld District Court handles felony DUI charges (vehicular assault, 4th+ offense). Most first and second offense DUI cases are heard in County Court in Greeley.
Critical: Do NOT Do These Things
Warrant issued immediately
Anything you say can be used against you
Can be used as evidence
Additional criminal charges
Bail revoked, returned to jail
Others can be subpoenaed to testify
Security Screening & Prohibited Items
What to Expect
- Metal detector screening (remove belt, watch)
- Bag/purse X-ray scanning
- Allow 15-20 minutes for security
- Typical wait: 1-3 hours once inside
Do NOT Bring
- Weapons (including pocket knives)
- Pepper spray or mace
- Large bags or backpacks
- Food or drinks (water OK)
Court Day Checklist
Required Documents
Day-Of Reminders
Tip: Screenshot or print this checklist. Check items off as you prepare the night before.
How DUI Cases Move Through Court
1. Arraignment
First appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest or per your citation.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges
- Enter plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date scheduled
What to Know:
- Most plead Not Guilty initially
- Attorney will advise on plea
- Write down next court date
- Request public defender if needed
2. Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months. Your attorney handles most of this.
What Your Attorney Does:
3. Plea Bargain or Trial
Over 90% of cases resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain (Common)
- Reduced charges (DUI to DWAI)
- Lower penalties
- Faster resolution
- Known outcome
Trial (Rare ~5%)
- Jury decides guilt
- Higher risk/reward
- Takes 6-12+ months
- More expensive
4. Sentencing
Judge imposes penalties. First offense usually means probation with conditions.
Common Outcomes (1st Offense):
Related Weld County Guides
The Weld County Centennial Center, located at 915 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80631, acts as the nerve center of the 19th Judicial District. It houses the majority of active courtrooms, the Clerk of Court’s office, the Jury Commissioner, and the Self-Help Center. It is the primary destination for criminal arraignments, trials, and jury service.
Courthouse Location
The Weld County Centennial Center's address is 915 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80631. The Weld County Courthouse, handling specialized dockets, is located separately at 901 9th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631. Plaza West, at 910 10th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631, houses Probation Services.
Security/Prohibited Items
Expect airport-style security screening. Weapons of any kind, knives, chemical agents, and tools are prohibited. While cell phones, PDAs, and tablets are permitted, they must be muted. Recording (audio or video) or taking photographs is strictly prohibited without written approval from Judicial Administration.
Logistics
The main operational hours for court facilities are 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding state and federal holidays. Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to clear security. Parking in downtown Greeley is heavily regulated. The designated juror parking lot is off 11th Street between 8th and 9th Avenue, and jurors do not need to display a permit here. Street parking around the courthouse has a two-hour limit, often resulting in parking tickets. Alternative free parking is available at the Train Depot (South end) at 7th Avenue and 10th Street.
Local Programs
Weld County offers a DUI Court, a post-sentence, voluntary program for offenders with multiple DUI convictions. It requires a minimum commitment of 18 months. Participants sign a contract agreeing to intensive supervision, random testing, and association only with sober networks. It is coordinated by Heather Nakamura.
Impound Release Procedures
If your vehicle is impounded, and has a police hold in relation to your DUI, first contact the impounding agency (e.g., Greeley PD or WCSO) to have the hold lifted. The tow company (Superior Towing at (970) 330-2440) cannot release the car until this digital flag is removed. You may need to pay an administrative fee to the police department; Kersey charges $25.00 and Keenesburg charges $36.00. Bring proof of ownership (vehicle title or current registration) and a valid driver’s license.
The contact number for the main court information center is (970) 475-2400.
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