The courthouse handling Richmond DUI cases
Richmond DUI cases are filed at the Contra Costa County Superior Court, 725 Court Street, Martinez. Richmond is in Contra Costa County. The court handles all Richmond DUI arraignments and proceedings. Arraignment occurs within 3 court days for in-custody defendants. For an overview of Contra Costa County’s court system, see the Contra Costa County DUI defense guide.
The DMV Driver Safety Office
The Oakland Driver Safety Office handles APS hearing requests for DUI arrests near Richmond. The 10-day deadline to request a DMV APS hearing runs from the date of arrest. Confirm the specific DSO from the pink Notice of Suspension issued at arrest.
You have 10 calendar days from your arrest date to request an APS hearing. Missing this deadline means automatic license suspension beginning 30 days after arrest. Contact the applicable Driver Safety Office immediately or have an attorney request the hearing on your behalf.
Law enforcement and DUI enforcement patterns
The Richmond Police Department enforces DUI throughout the city. The California Highway Patrol has significant presence on I-80 through Richmond — a major freight and commuter corridor — and on I-580 and the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge toll plaza approaches. Holiday Maximum Enforcement Periods generate elevated arrest numbers on these corridors.
How local prosecutors handle DUI cases
Richmond DUI cases are prosecuted by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s office. The office applies consistent charging guidelines county-wide. Wet reckless reductions under VC 23103.5 are available for favorable fact patterns. Cases are assigned to Martinez courthouse departments.
After a Richmond DUI arrest: your immediate priorities
Request the DMV APS hearing within 10 days. Your arraignment will be at the Contra Costa County Superior Court in Martinez. Richmond is one of the farther cities from its courthouse in the East Bay — retaining counsel who can handle Martinez appearances on your behalf is practical.