Summit County Criminal Courts: What You Need to Know

Posted on May 11, 2026

Learn What to Expect if You Are Facing Criminal Charges in Summit County Court

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in Breckenridge, Colorado, your case will most likely be tried in the Summit County Criminal Court. As you prepare to fight the allegations against you, it will be critical to know what to expect as your case moves forward.

It will also be critical for you to seek assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney. Defendants who do not hire attorneys to represent them are far more likely to face unnecessary consequences in court. While all court cases are complex, criminal cases present unique risks—and, once you have been arrested, it is up to you to fight for your freedom and your future.

The Criminal Case Process in Summit County, Colorado

Once you get arrested for a crime in Summit County, the criminal justice process moves swiftly—at least in the beginning. Following your arrest, your case will generally proceed through the following steps on the way to trial:

Advisement – An advisement is your first appearance in court. During your advisement, the judge will inform you of your legal rights and the charges against you. The judge may also set bail.
Arraignment – Unlike other jurisdictions, an arraignment typically does not happen until after you have exhausted pretrial negotiations; however, at an arraignment, you will be advised of your charges and asked to tender a not guilty plea to the court. If you reach an agreement with the District Attorney’s office for a plea arrangement, you will not have a formal arraignment but rather a plea hearing. Pre–Trial Practice – If you plead “Not guilty,” your case will be set for trial. At this stage, your defense attorney will engage in various pre-trial procedures. These include taking discovery (finding out what evidence prosecutors have in their possession) and filing pre-trial motions focused on resolving discovery disputes, limiting the scope of your trial, or having your charges dismissed.
Plea Bargaining – In some cases, seeking a plea bargain may be the best option under the circumstances at hand. If it makes sense for you to seek a plea bargain, your defense attorney can negotiate for a favorable deal on your behalf.
Pre–Trial Conference – Pre-trial conferences can be used to resolve discovery-related disputes, seek approval for plea bargains, or address logistical issues to get ready for trial. If the parties have not agreed to deal, the judge may encourage the parties to consider a plea bargain if the defendant does not have grounds for a pre-trial dismissal.

If you have not negotiated a plea bargain or succeeded in having your charges dismissed before your trial date arrives, when it arrives, the prosecution will present its case first. After prosecutors present their evidence, you will have the opportunity to file a motion or judgment of acquittal. If the judge denies your motion, you will then have an opportunity to present your defense.

After considering the evidence from both sides, the judge or jury will then render a verdict of “Guilty” or “Not guilty.” If you are found guilty, you will be sentenced in accordance with Colorado law. If you are found not guilty, your case will be over. In either scenario, the outcome of your trial may be subject to appeal on various grounds.

Summit County Criminal Court Information

The Summit County Justice Center is located at 501 N. Park Avenue in Breckenridge, CO. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can click here to visit the court’s web page for more information.

FAQs: Facing Criminal Charges in Summit County, Colorado

Do I need to hire a defense lawyer if I am facing criminal charges in Summit County, CO?

While you have the right to represent yourself in court after an arrest in Summit County, there are several important reasons to put an experienced defense lawyer on your side. Whether you have grounds to fight your charge (or charges) or your best option is to seek a plea bargain, an experienced defense lawyer will be able to take several steps to help minimize the consequences of your arrest.

Should I plead “Guilty,” “Not guilty” or “No contest” at my arraignment in Summit County Criminal Court?

Pleading “Not guilty” at your arraignment is essential for protecting your right to defend against your charges at trial. If you plead “Guilty” or “No contest,” you will be convicted, and your case will proceed directly to sentencing.

Does Summit County, Colorado have a Common Pleas Court or a Criminal Division?

No, if you see references to a Common Pleas Court or the Criminal Division of the Summit County Court online, these are references to the courts in Akron, OH—not Breckenridge, CO. If you are facing criminal charges in Summit County, Colorado, you need to ensure that you have an accurate understanding of the laws and procedures that apply under Colorado law.

Request a Free Consultation with Summit County Criminal Defense Lawyer J.B. Katz

If you are facing criminal charges in Summit County, we encourage you to contact us promptly. To schedule a free consultation as soon as possible, call 970-485-2261 or send us your contact information online now.