Grimes County License Hearing Guide

Navigating a Grimes County DUI: What You Need to Know

If you've been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Grimes County, Texas, understanding the local legal landscape is crucial. This guide provides practical information on the processes involved, from the initial arrest to vehicle recovery and court appearances. A DUI arrest in Grimes County necessitates transport to the Grimes County Jail in Anderson, the administrative center.

The Arrest: Who's Pulling You Over?

Your initial interaction with law enforcement will dictate the subsequent steps. Key agencies operating in Grimes County include:

• Grimes County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO): Primarily patrols unincorporated areas and Farm-to-Market (FM) roads. In 2023, the GCSO reported 32 DWI charges. Headquartered in Anderson, they are the dominant force in rural interdiction.
• Navasota Police Department (NPD): Focuses on traffic enforcement within Navasota city limits, particularly around Highway 6 and Highway 105. The NPD reported 11 DWI charges in 2023.
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): Highway Patrol on State Highways 6 and 105, specializing in impaired driving enforcement. Expect rigorous Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) protocols and potentially more comprehensive video evidence.
• Todd Mission Police Department: Heavily involved during the Texas Renaissance Festival (October-November) on FM 1774.

Understanding which agency initiated the arrest helps predict the flow of evidence and potential prosecutorial nuances.

Posting Bail: Securing Your Release

After an arrest, posting bail is a priority. Several bail bond options are available:

• Gage Gandy Bail Bonds: (936) 206-7064. Active in Grimes County with ties to the Brazos Valley/College Station area. Useful if you reside closer to College Station.
• Sonny Ellen Bail Bonds: 7479 CR 401, Anderson, TX. (936) 825-2118. Offers local familiarity and experience in Anderson.
• Wells, Wells, Wells Bail Bonding: 1102 Foster Street, Navasota, TX. (936) 825-0445. Convenient for those in Navasota, although paperwork still goes to Anderson.

Expect to pay a premium of 10-15% of the total bond amount. For a standard $500 DWI bond, a minimum fee (e.g., $150 or $200) is likely. Bondsmen may require collateral or a local co-signer, especially for felony charges or out-of-county residents.

Vehicle Impound: Getting Your Car Back

When arrested, your vehicle is subject to a "Non-Consent Tow" by a company on a rotation list used by GCSO and NPD. You have no say in the towing company. Key points to remember:

• Navasota Municipal Ordinance Towing Fees: $250 maximum for Non-Consent Rotation Tows, $150 maximum for Abandoned Vehicles within city limits.
• Statewide Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) Fees: $22.85 per day for vehicles under 25 feet (starting 24 hours after arrival), $21.03 impoundment fee, and $50 notification fee if unclaimed after 24 hours.

Verified local towing providers include:

• Frank's Towing and Repair: 303 Teague St, Navasota, TX 77868. (936) 825-7692. Offers 24/7 towing, but impound release is often "By Appointment."
• Texans Crown Towing: Serves Navasota and Grimes County with rapid response.
• ResQ Rangers: 3898 County Road 324, Navasota, TX 77868. (833) 737-7869.

The "Valid Driver" requirement is a significant hurdle. Because your license is likely confiscated, a second licensed driver is needed to drive the vehicle off the lot. Alternatively, the registered owner can sign an "Affidavit of Right of Possession," potentially requiring notarization, to allow a third party to retrieve the car.

Grimes County Jail Information

• Grimes County Jail Division Contact: (936) 873-9996.

Moving Forward

Begin by identifying the arresting agency. Knowing who made the arrest will assist with identifying the next steps that need to be taken. Your next step should be contacting a qualified Texas attorney.