Floyd County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Floyd, TX: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Floyd County, Texas can be a disorienting experience. Even though the Floyd County Sheriff's Office may show near-zero DWI arrests in official state reports (likely due to DPS troopers handling many traffic stops), arrests do happen, and you need to act quickly. This guide provides immediate, practical information to help you navigate the legal process in Floyd County, understand your rights, and protect your future.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Floyd

Following a DUI arrest in Floyd County, expect a whirlwind of activity. You'll be processed, potentially spend time in jail, and face crucial deadlines that impact your driving privileges and criminal record. This guide walks you through the immediate aftermath, outlines key deadlines, and details how the Floyd County legal system handles DUI cases, offering specific information to help you navigate this challenging time.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

• Initial Stop: A DPS Trooper or Floyd County Sheriff's Deputy likely initiated the traffic stop on highways like US-62 or US-70.
• Arrest and Booking: You will be taken to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office (125 E California Street, Floydada, TX) for booking. This involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording your personal information.
• Phone Calls: You have the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls, typically to arrange for bail and contact an attorney.
• Bail: Bail is set based on the offense and your criminal history. You can pay bail in cash or through a bail bondsman.
• Release: Once bail is posted, you will be released from custody with a court date.
• Vehicle Impound: Your vehicle may be impounded. Note: We are still gathering impound lot data for Floyd County.

Critical Deadlines

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Failing to do so results in an automatic suspension of your driver's license.
• Court Appearance: Your release paperwork will specify your initial court appearance date. Missing this date can lead to a warrant for your arrest. Remember, if your case is a felony, the 110th District Court rotates between counties, so missing your appearance could mean a significant delay.

DUI Enforcement in Floyd

While precise DUI checkpoint locations are not publicly advertised, keep in mind that DPS Troopers are heavily involved in traffic enforcement on U.S. Highways 62 and 70. DUI enforcement activity may increase during holidays or special events. The Floyd County Record often publishes police reports, which can offer insights into local enforcement patterns.

Local Resources

• Floyd County Court (Misdemeanors): 105 South Main Street, Room 105, Floydada, TX. Court Coordinator: Alyssa Bennett.
• 110th Judicial District Court (Felonies): 105 S. Main, Room 204, Floydada, TX. Court Coordinator: Nikki Seymour.
• County Clerk (Misdemeanor Records): KeeLee Rawls, Floyd County Courthouse, Floydada, TX. Filing Hours: Mon-Thu 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Fri 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
• District Clerk (Felony Records): MaryJane Cisneros, Floyd County Courthouse, Floydada, TX. E-filing is available.
• Floyd County Sheriff’s Office: 125 E California Street, Floydada, TX.
• Texas DPS Driver License Office: Floyd County Courthouse, 105 South Main Street #107, Floydada, TX. By appointment only.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Installer: Brian & Dilia's Service Center, 611 E Houston St, Floydada, TX 79235. Phone: (806) 589-6358 / (888) 786-7384. Authorized service center for Intoxalock and ADS. Open Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
• DUI Attorneys: Floyd County is considered a "legal desert," meaning you'll likely need to seek legal representation from attorneys in Plainview (Hale County) or Lubbock. Consider firms like Paul Holloway (Plainview), Laney Law Firm (Plainview), Dunham & Jones, or Texas Criminal Defense Group (Lubbock).

What Makes Floyd Different

Floyd County presents unique aspects that can impact your DUI case:

• Constitutional County Judge: Misdemeanor DWI cases are presided over by the County Judge, who is not required to be a licensed attorney. This can lead to a more informal court atmosphere, but also gives you the right to a Trial De Novo (a new trial) on appeal if you are unhappy with the outcome.
• Reliance on Regional Resources: Due to its rural location, Floyd County relies heavily on resources from neighboring counties. This includes attorneys, and possibly SCRAM (ankle monitor) providers in Lubbock/Plainview.
• Local IID Installer: Unlike many rural counties, Floyd County has a locally certified IID installer (Brian & Dilia's Service Center). Their Saturday hours provide a significant logistical advantage for maintaining compliance and avoiding lost wages.
• DPS Driver License Office: Floyd County has its own DPS Driver License office, which is much less crowded than the Lubbock "Mega Center." This can be a huge time-saver when applying for an Occupational Driver's License (ODL).
• E-Filing: The 110th District Court (felony cases) utilizes the Texas eFile system, allowing for electronic filing of court documents.
• ALR Hearings in Lubbock: While the arrest occurred in Floyd County, your ALR hearing will likely be administered out of the Lubbock region by the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH).

To start the process of reclaiming your driver's license after a DUI arrest, contact the Texas DPS Driver License Office in Floydada at 105 South Main Street #107 to schedule an appointment to apply for an Occupational Driver's License (ODL) after receiving the required court order.