About La Plata County

La Plata County is nestled in the southwestern corner of Colorado, where the rugged San Juan Mountains give way to high desert mesas and river valleys carved by the Animas, Florida, and Pine rivers. Spanning approximately 1,692 square miles, the county encompasses a dramatic range of landscapes, from alpine wilderness in the north to the arid terrain near the New Mexico border in the south. This geographic diversity shapes not only the natural character of the region but also its culture, drawing outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and longtime ranching families who have worked the land for generations.

Practice Areas in La Plata County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in La Plata County

The primary trial court serving La Plata County is the 6th Judicial District Court, located at the La Plata County Justice Center at 1060 E. 2nd Avenue in Durango. This court handles felony and misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters involving amounts over $15,000, domestic relations and family law cases including divorce and child custody, juvenile proceedings, and probate matters. The court also includes a magistrate division that handles certain domestic relations, juvenile, and small claims matters. Small claims cases involving disputes up to $7,500 are also filed at this location. Municipal violations within the City of Durango are handled by the Durango Municipal Court, located at Durango City Hall at 949 E. 2nd Avenue, which addresses city ordinance violations, traffic infractions, and local misdemeanors.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in La Plata County

In La Plata County, state law matters — including most criminal cases, family disputes, contract disagreements, and personal injury claims — are handled through the Colorado state court system at the 6th Judicial District Court. Federal matters, such as cases involving federal law, constitutional claims, disputes between citizens of different states exceeding $75,000, immigration proceedings, and federal criminal charges, are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado, which is headquartered in Denver. Residents of La Plata County who have federal cases will typically need to travel to Denver or coordinate with attorneys admitted to practice in the District of Colorado, making it important to understand which court system governs your particular legal situation before taking action.

Common Legal Situations in La Plata County

Residents of La Plata County frequently encounter legal matters shaped by the county's unique mix of rural living, outdoor recreation, tourism, and a growing population centered around Durango. Traffic offenses on major corridors like U.S. Highway 550 and U.S. Highway 160 are among the most common legal issues, particularly involving speeding, DUI charges, and accidents involving out-of-state visitors. Family law matters including divorce, property division, and child custody disputes arise regularly, especially as the county's population grows and demographics shift. Landlord-tenant disputes have increased alongside Durango's competitive rental market, and employment law issues affect workers in the tourism, healthcare, and construction industries. Property boundary disputes and water rights conflicts are also particularly common given the county's agricultural history and the critical importance of water access in southwestern Colorado.

Why Go To Court for La Plata County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers offers La Plata County residents dependable, accessible legal support whether they're dealing with a traffic matter in Durango or a complex family law case in the mountains. The firm's 24/7 free legal hotline means that residents can get answers at any hour without waiting days for a callback, which is especially valuable in a rural county where legal resources can feel distant. The experienced team understands the specific courts, judges, and legal landscape of southwestern Colorado, providing representation that is both knowledgeable and locally informed. With fixed-fee services coming soon, La Plata County clients will also benefit from transparent, predictable legal costs that make quality representation accessible to more families and individuals across the region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I fight a DUI charge in La Plata County?

A DUI charge in La Plata County is handled in either the 6th Judicial District Court or Durango Municipal Court depending on where the offense occurred and the nature of the charge. You have the right to challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer or blood test results with the help of an attorney. Acting quickly is important because you typically have only seven days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension of your driver's license.

What is the process for filing for divorce in La Plata County?

To file for divorce in La Plata County, you or your spouse must have been a resident of Colorado for at least 91 days before filing, and the petition is submitted to the 6th Judicial District Court in Durango. Colorado is a no-fault divorce state, meaning neither party needs to prove wrongdoing — only that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If the divorce involves children, property, or significant assets, working with an attorney can help ensure that agreements on custody, support, and division of assets are fair and legally sound.

Can I contest a property boundary dispute in La Plata County?

Property boundary disputes are relatively common in La Plata County given the county's mix of rural land, subdivisions, and historically informal property arrangements. These disputes are typically resolved through civil litigation in the 6th Judicial District Court, often relying on surveys, deeds, and historical records to establish the correct boundary. An attorney experienced in Colorado property law can help you gather the necessary documentation and represent your interests in negotiations or court proceedings.

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket on Highway 550 or Highway 160 in La Plata County?

If you receive a traffic citation on one of La Plata County's major highways, you generally have the option to pay the fine, which is an admission of guilt, or to contest the ticket in court. Contesting a ticket can sometimes result in a reduced charge or dismissal, particularly if there are procedural issues with how the stop was conducted. An attorney can review the details of your citation and advise whether it is worth challenging, especially if the ticket carries points that could affect your driving record or insurance rates.

How does water rights law affect property owners in La Plata County?

Water rights in Colorado, including La Plata County, are governed by the doctrine of prior appropriation, which means that water rights are allocated based on seniority — the oldest claims have priority during shortages. Property ownership in La Plata County does not automatically come with the right to use surface water or groundwater, and buyers should carefully review what water rights, if any, are conveyed with a property purchase. Disputes over water rights can be complex and are adjudicated through Colorado's specialized water court system, making it advisable to consult an attorney with experience in Colorado water law before purchasing land or initiating any water use.

Neighbouring Counties

La Plata County is bordered by San Juan County to the north, Hinsdale County to the northeast, Mineral County to the east, Archuleta County to the southeast, the state of New Mexico to the south, Montezuma County to the west, and San Juan County (New Mexico) along its southern boundary.