Lamar County Court Process

Navigating a DUI Arrest in Lamar County, Georgia: A Local Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Lamar County, Georgia, understanding the local procedures is crucial. The initial hours and days following your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. This guide provides specific information about Lamar County's DUI process, from arrest to court appearances.

Initial Arrest and Booking: Roberta Drive is Your Starting Point

A DUI arrest in Lamar County typically begins with a traffic stop by either the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) or the Barnesville Police Department (BPD). Deputies, often patrolling U.S. Highway 41 or State Route 36, may initiate a stop for violations like speeding, weaving (Failure to Maintain Lane), or an equipment malfunction. If the officer suspects impairment, they will likely administer Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs).

Following an arrest, you will be transported to the Lamar County Detention Center, located at 121 Roberta Drive, Barnesville, GA 30204. This is where the booking process occurs: your photograph and fingerprints are taken, and your personal belongings are inventoried. Jail Operations, commanded by Captain Melton, manages this process. The speed of this process can vary, so contacting a bondsman quickly is essential.

Securing Your Release: Bond and Towing Fees

One of the first priorities after a DUI arrest is securing your release from the Detention Center. Lamar County utilizes a cash or property bond system. The amount of the bond will depend on the severity of the charges and your prior criminal history. Be prepared for additional charges beyond the DUI itself. It's common for DUI arrests to be "stacked" with charges like "Open Container" or "Failure to Maintain Lane," increasing the total bond amount.

Expect to pay approximately 12-15% of the total bond amount to a bonding company. Keep in mind that Lamar County's poverty rate of 10.5% means that securing bond can be a significant financial burden for many residents.

Your vehicle will likely be impounded and towed. Towing and storage fees can quickly accumulate, often exceeding $200 initially. Contact the arresting agency (LCSO or BPD) to determine where your vehicle was towed and the procedures for its release.

Law Enforcement Agencies: LCSO and BPD

The Lamar County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) and the Barnesville Police Department (BPD) are the primary law enforcement agencies responsible for DUI enforcement in the county.

• Lamar County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO): The LCSO has jurisdiction over all unincorporated areas of Lamar County. Lieutenants Shane Moore and Michael Newman command the Uniform Patrol Division, the primary unit responsible for traffic enforcement. If your DUI involved a serious accident, the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), led by Captain Jake Sutton, may be involved.

• Barnesville Police Department (BPD): The BPD enforces the law within the city limits of Barnesville. They often apprehend impaired drivers in "stop-and-go" environments or at roadblocks within the city.

Court Appearances and the Towaliga Judicial Circuit

Your DUI case will be adjudicated within the Towaliga Judicial Circuit, which includes Lamar County. The court system in Lamar County is bifurcated, meaning it has both Probate and Superior Courts. Felony DUI cases, particularly those involving serious injury or death, are handled in Superior Court.

Demographic Considerations: Jury Selection

Lamar County's demographic makeup is predominantly White (Non-Hispanic) and Black or African American. White residents account for approximately 66.5% of the population, while Black or African American residents make up roughly 27-28%. This demographic reality is important to consider during jury selection in Superior Court, as the jury pool will likely reflect these proportions.

Next Steps: Contact Information

Following a DUI arrest in Lamar County, it's crucial to understand the local procedures and potential consequences. Contacting a qualified attorney experienced in Lamar County DUI cases is highly recommended.

Lamar County Detention Center: 121 Roberta Drive, Barnesville, GA 30204 Lamar County Sheriff’s Office (Non-Emergency): (770) 358-5159 Barnesville Police Department (Non-Emergency): (770) 358-1222