Have A Question? Search This Site:
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Colorado, one of the first questions that may come to mind is: How long will this take? The answer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, whether you plead guilty or go to trial, and how both the court and DMV processes unfold. While some cases move quickly, others may take several months to fully resolve.
In Colorado, DUI cases follow a structured timeline, but that timeline can shift based on things like court availability, legal motions, evidence challenges, or plea negotiations. Both criminal proceedings and administrative license hearings may occur at the same time, each with its own steps and schedule.
This blog post provides a clear, step-by-step overview of how long a DUI case typically takes in Colorado. We’ll break down the timeline into key phases, explain what affects the duration, and answer common questions about the overall process. This is not legal advice — just an informational guide to understanding what to expect after a DUI arrest in the Centennial State.
Phase 1: The First Week After Arrest
The timeline of a DUI case begins immediately upon arrest. In Colorado, several things happen within the first seven days that can affect how the rest of the case unfolds.
Key events during this period include:
- The officer usually issues a Notice of Revocation and a temporary license valid for 7 days
- You have 7 days to request a DMV hearing to challenge the automatic license suspension
- Your first court date (arraignment) may be scheduled, typically within a few weeks
Acting quickly is important. If you don’t request a DMV hearing in time, the license suspension begins automatically. Even if your court case takes months, the administrative license suspension can go into effect almost immediately unless contested.
This first week sets the tone for both the criminal and administrative sides of your case.
Phase 2: Arraignment and Early Court Dates (Weeks 2–6)
The first official court appearance — called the arraignment — typically happens within two to six weeks of the DUI arrest, depending on the court’s calendar. This appearance serves to:
- Formally present the charges
- Allow the defendant to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
- Set conditions for release (if applicable)
This phase also includes:
- Reviewing evidence provided by the prosecution (discovery)
- Initial plea discussions, especially for first-time offenders
Some DUI cases in Colorado may resolve during this stage, particularly if the evidence is straightforward and both sides agree on a plea deal. If so, the case may be resolved within 30 to 60 days from the date of arrest.
If the case continues, the timeline extends into the next phase.
Phase 3: Pre-Trial Motions and Negotiations (1–3 Months)
If the case isn’t resolved at the arraignment, it typically moves into the pre-trial phase. This stage often lasts between 1 to 3 months and includes:
- Filing of motions to suppress evidence or challenge procedures
- Further negotiations between the prosecution and defense
- Scheduling of a trial, if no plea deal is reached
This phase may involve multiple court dates, especially if legal motions need to be heard. Pre-trial discussions may result in:
- A plea agreement with reduced charges (e.g., from DUI to DWAI)
- A decision to move forward with trial preparation
Cases that are more complex — such as those involving high BAC levels, accidents, or prior offenses — may require longer timelines. However, the majority of misdemeanor DUI cases are resolved during the pre-trial stage, often within 90 days of arrest.
Phase 4: Trial and Sentencing (3–6+ Months)
If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. In Colorado, this could be a jury trial or a bench trial (where a judge decides the outcome). Scheduling a trial often adds significant time to the case — due to:
- Court calendar availability
- Witness preparation
- Additional legal motions
The trial itself may only last a day or two, but getting to that point can take several months. After the trial concludes:
- A verdict is issued (guilty or not guilty)
- If found guilty, the court moves to sentencing, which may happen the same day or at a separate hearing
In total, DUI cases that go to trial in Colorado often take 3 to 6 months or more, depending on the complexity and scheduling delays.
Phase 5: Administrative License Process (Parallel Timeline)
While the court case unfolds, the Colorado DMV conducts its own separate process related to your driver’s license. This includes:
- The 7-day window to request a hearing
- A DMV hearing, typically scheduled within 60 days
- A ruling that can lead to license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, or reinstatement conditions
This administrative process usually wraps up faster than the criminal case — often within 1 to 2 months. However, the results are independent. You can win your DMV hearing and still face penalties in court, or vice versa.
Managing both timelines — court and DMV — is a key part of handling a DUI case in Colorado.
Factors That Affect the Length of a DUI Case
While many Colorado DUI cases are resolved within a few months, several factors can cause the timeline to vary:
- Plea vs. trial: Plea deals are usually faster than contested trials
- First offense vs. repeat offense: Prior history may lead to longer cases
- Evidence disputes: Challenges to test results or arrest procedures add time
- Court scheduling: Delays due to backlog or limited availability
- Attorney representation: Experienced legal counsel may speed up or slow down the case based on strategy
Cases involving accidents, injuries, minors in the vehicle, or multiple charges may take longer to resolve due to their complexity.
Ultimately, each case is unique — but the general range for most DUI cases in Colorado is 2 to 6 months from arrest to resolution.
FAQ: How Long Does a DUI Case Take in Colorado?
How soon after a DUI arrest will I go to court?
Usually within 2 to 6 weeks for the first appearance (arraignment).
Can a DUI case be resolved in under a month?
Yes, especially for first-time offenders who accept a plea deal quickly.
What if I want to fight the DUI charges?
Cases that go to trial usually take 3 to 6 months or more, depending on court scheduling and case complexity.
Do I have to deal with the DMV separately?
Yes. The DMV process is separate from the court and must be initiated within 7 days of arrest.
Can I keep driving during the case?
You may receive a temporary license, but restrictions vary. Some drivers qualify for restricted licenses with ignition interlock devices.
Does hiring a lawyer speed up the process?
It can. Attorneys may help resolve cases more efficiently or delay proceedings for strategic reasons.
What happens if I delay the case?
Delays can extend your uncertainty and may affect DMV outcomes, but some delays are granted for case preparation.
Conclusion
The length of a DUI case in Colorado depends on the path it takes — whether it’s resolved quickly with a plea deal or extended through trial. Most cases are completed in 2 to 6 months, though some may move faster or slower based on individual circumstances, court availability, and case complexity.
Understanding the key phases — from arrest and arraignment to trial and DMV hearings — helps prepare you for what’s ahead. While the timeline may vary, the process follows a predictable structure, allowing you to plan accordingly.
To learn more about how DUI timelines unfold, read our full guide on How Long a DUI Case Typically Takes. For a broader look at each stage of the case, check out our comprehensive DUI Process And Timeline overview.