Galveston County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Galveston, TX: Complete Guide

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Galveston

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Galveston, Texas can be a frightening and confusing experience. This guide is designed to provide you with immediate, practical information to help you understand what happens next and what steps you need to take to protect your rights. We'll cover everything from the initial arrest and booking process to important deadlines, license implications, and how to navigate the legal system in Galveston County. This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The hours following a DUI arrest are crucial. Here’s a timeline of what to expect:

• Initial Stop and Field Sobriety Tests: The officer will likely ask you to perform field sobriety tests (FSTs). You are not legally obligated to perform these tests, but refusing may lead to further suspicion and could result in an arrest.

• Breath or Blood Test: You will be asked to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). In Texas, the legal BAC limit is 0.08. Refusing to take a breath or blood test can result in an automatic driver's license suspension, even if you are not ultimately convicted of DUI.

• Arrest and Transport: If the officer believes you are intoxicated, you will be arrested and transported to the Galveston County Jail.

• Booking Process at Galveston Jail: Upon arrival at the jail, you will be processed. This involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording your personal information. Your personal belongings will be inventoried and stored.

• Phone Calls: You have the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls, typically to arrange for bail or contact an attorney. Use this opportunity wisely.

• Bail: Bail is the amount of money required to secure your release from jail. The bail amount in Galveston County will depend on the specific charges and your criminal history. You can either pay the full bail amount yourself (if you have the funds available), use a bail bondsman (who will charge a fee, typically 10-15% of the bail amount), or wait for an arraignment hearing where a judge will set bail.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have severe consequences in a DUI case. Here are the key dates to be aware of:

• ALR Hearing Deadline: This is arguably the most critical deadline. You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your driver's license will be suspended. Failing to request a hearing within the 15-day window results in automatic license suspension.

• Court Appearance Dates: You will receive a notice to appear in court for an arraignment. This is where you will formally be advised of the charges against you and enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). Missing your court date can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.

• License Suspension Timeline: If you fail to request an ALR hearing or if you lose the ALR hearing, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension varies depending on whether it's your first offense and other factors.

DUI Enforcement in Galveston

Galveston County law enforcement agencies actively enforce DUI laws. Be aware that:

• Galveston beaches and entertainment districts often see increased DUI patrols, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Sobriety checkpoints may be set up at various locations throughout the county.
• Officers are trained to identify signs of intoxication and administer field sobriety tests.

Local Resources

• Galveston Court Information: **
• Bail Bondsmen in the Area: ** Example: "Please note that dui.guide does not endorse any specific bail bondsman. It is your responsibility to conduct thorough research and choose a bondsman that meets your needs."
• DUI Attorneys: Finding a qualified DUI attorney is crucial. Resources like the State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Service can help you find attorneys in your area. Remember to research and interview potential attorneys before making a decision.

What Makes Galveston Different

While Texas DUI laws are consistent statewide, some county-specific factors can influence your case in Galveston:

• Unique Local Procedures: **. Without specific data, it's difficult to provide concrete examples.

• County-Specific Programs: **

• Typical Bail Amounts in this County: ** Example: "While bail amounts can vary, first-time DUI offenders in Galveston County often face bail amounts ranging from $500 to $2,000."

This guide is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal advice. If you have been arrested for DUI in Galveston, Texas, it is essential to consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible.