Criminal Defense in Aurora
By Find Local Law Editorial Team · Last reviewed: May 26, 2026
Researched and drafted with AI assistance and verified against primary sources (statutes, Judicial Council forms, and official court websites). This is general information, not legal advice.
Criminal cases in Aurora are handled in the 18th Judicial District: felonies in the Arapahoe County District Court and misdemeanors, traffic, and petty offenses in the County Court. Although Aurora spans several counties, it is primarily in Arapahoe County (county seat Littleton).
The local court decides where your case is heard; the substantive law lives in our statewide guides. Start with the Colorado criminal defense hub, then read about the criminal process, DUI charges, and record sealing.
Early decisions in a criminal case shape everything that follows. To get matched with a local attorney, connect with a lawyer.
Local criminal courts
Court: Arapahoe County District and County Courts (18th Judicial District) — felonies are heard in the District Court and misdemeanors and traffic in the County Court.
Criminal cases for Aurora are handled in the 18th Judicial District: felonies in the Arapahoe County District Court and misdemeanors, traffic, and petty offenses in the County Court. Aurora spans counties but is primarily in Arapahoe County. Verify the current courthouse location, hours, and filing procedures on the Colorado Judicial Branch website before you appear.
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Start your free intakeFrequently asked questions
- Which court handles my criminal case in Aurora?
- It depends on the charge. Felonies are heard in the Arapahoe County District Court (18th Judicial District), while misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and petty offenses are handled in the County Court.
- Where is a DUI case heard in Aurora?
- A misdemeanor DUI is generally handled in the Arapahoe County Court, while a felony DUI (such as a fourth offense) is heard in the District Court. Aurora is primarily in Arapahoe County.