Houston County DUI Guide

The Houston County Sheriff's Office actively enforces DUI laws in the area, and this guide provides you with immediate, practical information about what to expect and the steps you need to take to protect your rights. We'll cover everything from the immediate aftermath of the arrest to navigating the legal system and getting your life back on track. Remember, this guide provides general information and is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Houston County

After a DUI arrest in Houston County, Tennessee, you'll face a series of immediate steps and longer-term legal processes. This guide is designed to help you navigate those steps, providing information on everything from posting bail to understanding your rights and potential defenses.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The first 24 hours after a DUI arrest are critical. Here's what typically happens:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: Following a traffic stop, the officer may administer field sobriety tests (FSTs). While you have the right to refuse these tests, refusing may lead to an immediate arrest based on other observations.
• Breathalyzer or Blood Test: You'll likely be asked to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). In Tennessee, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%. Refusing to take this test can result in automatic license suspension, regardless of whether you're ultimately convicted of DUI.
• Booking Process at Houston County Jail: After the arrest, you'll be taken to the Houston County Jail located at 3330 TN-149, Erin, TN 37061. The booking process involves:
• Photographing (mugshot)
• Fingerprinting
• Inventory of your belongings
• A search
• Health screening
• Phone Calls: You have the right to make phone calls, typically after the booking process is complete. Use one call to contact a family member or friend and another to contact a DUI attorney.
• Bail in Houston: Bail is a sum of money you pay to the court as a guarantee that you will appear for your court dates. The amount of bail in Houston County can vary. You can pay bail yourself (if you have the funds), or you can use a licensed bail bondsman. A bail bondsman typically charges a percentage (often 10-15%) of the total bail amount.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in a DUI case. Pay close attention to these critical dates:

• ALR Hearing Deadline (15 days): After a DUI arrest in Tennessee, the Department of Safety (DMV) will attempt to suspend your driver's license, especially if you refused a breathalyzer or your BAC was above the legal limit. You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge this suspension. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in the automatic suspension of your license.
• Court Appearance Dates: You will receive a citation with your court date. Mark this date clearly on your calendar. Missing your court date can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you lose your ALR hearing or are convicted of DUI, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension varies depending on the circumstances of your case and any prior DUI convictions.

DUI Enforcement in Houston County

Houston County, Tennessee, like other areas, actively enforces DUI laws. Expect to see increased patrols during holidays and weekends. Law enforcement officers, including the Houston County Sheriff, are trained to identify signs of impairment, and they may use sobriety checkpoints to detect drunk drivers. Given Houston County's rural nature, be aware that law enforcement may be patrolling back roads and highways.

Local Resources

• Houston County Courthouse: 4725 E Main St, Erin, TN 37061. Phone: (931) 289-3633. Open Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Houston County Jail: 3330 TN-149, Erin, TN 37061. Main phone: (931) 289-4613.
• Houston County Sheriff: 3330 TN-149, Erin, TN 37061. Phone: (931) 289-4614.
• Finding a Licensed Bail Bondsman: To find a licensed bail bondsman, begin by looking for licensed professionals in the Houston County area.

What Makes Houston County Different

Houston County's small size and rural character can influence DUI procedures. Typical bail amounts for first-time DUI offenses in rural Tennessee counties like Houston often range from $500 to $2,500. The Houston County Sheriff's Office is located at 3330 TN-149, Erin, TN 37061, and can be reached at (931) 289-4614.