Floyd County Court Process

Navigating a DWI charge in Floyd County, Texas, requires understanding its unique legal landscape. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, Floyd County operates as a "hybrid" legal environment, balancing local constitutional authority with regional resources. If you've been arrested, knowing the specific procedures and key players can significantly impact your defense.

Understanding Law Enforcement & Initial Steps

If stopped for suspicion of DWI, remember that both the Floyd County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) patrol the area. DPS troopers are frequently the primary enforcers on Highways 62 and 70, the major corridors bisecting the county. Even if arrested by DPS, the FCSO, located at 125 E California Street in Floydada, serves as the central intake facility.

Immediately following an arrest, the vehicle is typically impounded. In Floyd County, expect your vehicle to be towed by local or regional providers. Floydada Towing (806-616-2076) is likely the first call for the Floydada Police Department. Determine where your vehicle was towed, as impound fees accumulate daily.

Navigating the Courts: Misdemeanors vs. Felonies

Your case will be heard in one of two courts, depending on the severity of the charge:

• Class A and Class B Misdemeanor DWI: These cases are handled by the Floyd County Court, presided over by County Judge Marty Lucke. The court is located at 105 South Main Street, Room 105, Floydada, TX, and the Court Coordinator is Alyssa Bennett. Because Judge Lucke's background is in administration rather than law, you have the right to a Trial De Novo (a new trial) in the appellate court if you disagree with the outcome.

• Felony DWI (3rd offense, DWI w/ Child Passenger): Felony cases fall under the jurisdiction of the 110th Judicial District Court, which also covers Briscoe and Dickens Counties. Judge William P. (Bill) Smith, a licensed attorney, presides over this court. Court Coordinator Nikki Seymour is located at 105 S. Main, Room 204. Given the multi-county nature of the district court, missing a court date can lead to significant delays.

Keep in mind that filings for Misdemeanor court are handled by County Clerk KeeLee Rawls, with office hours Mon-Thu 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Fri 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Felony court filings are managed by District Clerk MaryJane Cisneros; the 110th District Court utilizes the Texas eFile system for electronic submissions.

The 15-Day Deadline & Your Driver's License

Alongside the criminal case, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) initiates an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process. You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing to contest the suspension of your driver's license. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe results in an automatic license suspension (90 days for refusal to take a breath or blood test, 180 days for failing a test). ALR hearings for Floyd County are administered by the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) out of the Lubbock region and are often conducted remotely.

If eligible for an Occupational Driver’s License (ODL) after a suspension, take advantage of the local Texas DPS Driver License office at 105 South Main Street #107 in the Floyd County Courthouse. The office operates by appointment through the statewide DPS scheduling system, and the wait times are typically shorter than in larger cities like Lubbock.

Securing Legal Representation in a "Legal Desert"

Floyd County is considered a "legal desert," meaning there are few local criminal defense attorneys. Plan to seek counsel from Plainview (Hale County) or Lubbock. Consider these options:

• Paul Holloway (Plainview): (Address provided in research, explicitly lists Floyd County as a primary practice area.)
• Laney Law Firm (Plainview): (Serves the Hale/Floyd corridor since 1977.)
• Dunham & Jones: (Major firm with a heavy marketing presence in the region, offering payment plans.)
• Texas Criminal Defense Group: (Lubbock-based, providing high-level specialized DWI defense.)

If you cannot afford an attorney, the court uses a "Court Appointed Attorney List" managed by the District Clerk. There is no Public Defender's Office.

Meeting Compliance Requirements: Ignition Interlock

One advantage in Floyd County is the presence of a local certified Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installer. This alleviates a common burden, as many rural counties require travel to larger cities for IID installation and maintenance.

To start your defense, immediately contact a criminal defense attorney experienced in Floyd County DWI cases. Do not miss the 15-day deadline for requesting an ALR hearing, or your license will be automatically suspended.