What types of cases does Durango Justice Advocates handle?

Durango Justice Advocates focuses on criminal defense and family law matters, including DUI, drug charges, domestic violence defense, divorce, child custody, and adoption.

Do I need an attorney if I have not been formally charged?

Yes. Speaking with a lawyer early can protect your rights, guide your next steps, and help prevent mistakes before formal charges are filed.

Do you offer confidential consultations?

Yes. All consultations with Durango Justice Advocates are confidential and designed to help you understand your options before deciding how to proceed.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer after an arrest?

You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest. Early legal guidance can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

What should I do after being arrested in Durango?

After an arrest, you should exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights.

Should I talk to the police without a lawyer?

No. Anything you say can be used against you. It is best to speak with an attorney before answering questions from law enforcement.

Can criminal charges be reduced or dismissed?

Depending on the facts of the case, criminal charges may be reduced or dismissed through legal motions, negotiations, or lack of evidence.

Will my case go to trial?

Many cases are resolved before trial, but we prepare every case as if it will go to court to ensure the strongest possible defense.

What happens after a DUI arrest in Colorado?

A DUI arrest may involve criminal charges, license suspension, and court proceedings. An attorney can explain deadlines and legal options.

Can I challenge a DUI breath or blood test?

Yes. Breath and blood tests can be challenged based on accuracy, handling, and whether proper procedures were followed.

Will I lose my driver's license after a DUI?

A DUI can result in a license suspension, but there are legal options to challenge the suspension or request limited driving privileges.

How soon should I hire a DUI attorney?

You should hire a DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your driving privileges and build a strong defense.

Do I need a lawyer for a divorce in Colorado?

While it is possible to divorce without a lawyer, legal representation can help protect your rights, assets, and parental interests.

How is child custody determined?

Child custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as stability, caregiving, and parental involvement.

Can custody agreements be modified?

Yes. Custody arrangements can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances affecting the child.

How long does a divorce typically take?

The timeline for a divorce varies depending on complexity, cooperation between parties, and court schedules.

What types of adoption do you handle?

We assist with various adoption and guardianship matters, guiding families through each legal step with care and clarity.

How long does the adoption process take?

The timeline depends on the type of adoption and legal requirements, but an attorney can help ensure the process moves efficiently.

What to Do After an Arrest in Durango, CO: A Step-by-Step Guide With a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Durango Justice Advocates • October 9, 2026

Getting arrested in Durango, CO, is a frightening experience, and knowing your next steps can make a real difference in how your case unfolds. If you or someone you care about has been taken into custody, contacting our criminal defense lawyers as early as possible is one of the most important moves you can make. Contact us today at (970) 259-4422 to speak with our team and get the guidance you need right away.

Step One: Understand What Happens During the Booking Process

Booking is the first formal step after an arrest. When law enforcement takes you into custody in Durango, CO, you will typically be transported to the La Plata County Detention Center on East Second Avenue, where staff will record your personal information, document the charges against you, take fingerprints and photographs, and inventory your belongings.

During this stage, you have the right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions beyond providing basic identifying information. Anything you say during booking can be used against you later, so it is generally best to say as little as possible and wait for our criminal defense lawyers to guide you through the process.

Step Two: Know Your Rights After an Arrest

Every person arrested in the United States has constitutional rights that apply from the moment of custody. These rights include:

The right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself.
The right to be informed of the charges against you.
The right to an attorney, even if you cannot afford one.
The right to a reasonable bond hearing in most cases.

Understanding these rights can help you avoid common mistakes that may hurt your case. Invoking your right to counsel clearly and calmly is always the right call.

Step Three: The Bond Hearing in La Plata County

After booking, most people are entitled to a bond hearing. In La Plata County, a judge will review the charges and decide whether to set bond, how much bond to require, or whether to release you on your own recognizance. Factors the court may consider include the seriousness of the charges, your prior criminal history, and your ties to the community.

Our skilled criminal defense lawyers can advocate for you at this early stage. Having us represent you at your bond hearing may result in a lower bond amount or more favorable release conditions.

Step Four: Your Arraignment at the 6th Judicial District Court

Arraignment is your first formal court appearance before a judge at the 6th Judicial District Court in Durango. This is where the charges are formally read and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. In most cases, entering a not guilty plea at arraignment is the strategic choice, as it preserves your ability to negotiate or build a defense.

Colorado law requires that arraignment happen within a reasonable time after arrest. The timeline can vary depending on whether you are held in custody or released on bond.

Why Calling a Defense Attorney Early Matters

Getting a criminal defense lawyer in Durango, CO, involved early in your case can significantly shape how things unfold. Our team can begin gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and identifying procedural issues before they become harder to address.

Early representation also means someone is in your corner at the bond hearing, which can affect whether you stay in custody or return home while your case is pending. The earlier you call, the more options we may have to work with.

What Happens if You Cannot Afford an Attorney?

If you cannot afford a private attorney, the court will appoint a public defender at your request. However, public defenders often carry heavy caseloads. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer from our team, when possible, may allow for more personalized attention to your case. We encourage you to explore your options and make the choice that serves your best interests.

What Should You Avoid Saying After an Arrest?

After an arrest, avoid discussing your case with cellmates, friends, or family over jail phone lines, which are typically recorded. Do not post about your situation on social media. Speak only with your attorney about the details of what happened. What you say, even casually, can find its way into the courtroom.

How Long Does the Criminal Process Take in Durango, CO?

The length of a criminal case in Durango depends on the severity of the charges and court scheduling at the 6th Judicial District. Misdemeanor cases may resolve in a few months, while felony cases can take considerably longer. Consulting with our criminal defense lawyers early gives you a clearer picture of what to expect once we review the specifics of your situation.

Take the Right Steps With Our Team on Your Side

An arrest does not have to define your future. The steps you take in the hours and days after being taken into custody can have a lasting impact on your case outcome. Our criminal defense attorneys are ready to walk beside you through every stage of the process, from the booking room to the courtroom at the 6th Judicial District.

At Durango Justice Advocates, we are committed to protecting your rights and building the strongest possible defense from day one. You can learn more about our reputation and read client feedback by visiting our Google Business Profile, where you can see why people facing criminal charges in La Plata County trust us with their defense. Call us now at (970) 259-4422 or send us a message to schedule a confidential consultation and get the experienced defense team you deserve.

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