Howard County DWI Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Howard County can be overwhelming. You're likely facing immediate questions about your license, your car, and your freedom. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of what happens after a DUI arrest in Howard County, Texas, and outlines the critical steps you need to take to protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Howard County

After being arrested for DUI in Howard County, you'll be taken into custody by law enforcement. The Howard County Sheriff's Office is the primary agency handling DUI enforcement. You will then be transported to either the Howard County Detention Center located at 3611 W Hwy 80, Big Spring, TX 79720, or the Howard County Jail at I-20BL, Big Spring, TX 79720.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

Here's a timeline of what to expect in the first 24 hours after a DUI arrest:

• Arrest and Initial Processing: You will be arrested by a law enforcement officer (typically from the Howard County Sheriff). The officer will read you your Miranda rights and transport you to the Howard County Jail or Detention Center.
• Booking: At the jail, you'll undergo the booking process. This includes:
• Providing your name, address, date of birth, and other identifying information.
• Having your photograph taken (mugshot).
• Having your fingerprints taken.
• A search of your person and belongings.
• Inventory of your personal property, which will be stored securely until your release.
• Phone Calls: You'll be allowed to make a limited number of phone calls. Use one to contact a loved one and another to contact a licensed bail bondsman to start the bail process.
• Bail Setting: A judge or magistrate will review your case and set a bail amount. This amount will depend on the specific charges, your criminal history, and other factors.
• Posting Bail: You can post bail in one of two ways:
• Cash Bail: Paying the full bail amount in cash.
• Surety Bond: Hiring a licensed bail bondsman who will post a bond on your behalf, typically for a percentage of the total bail amount (usually 10-15%).
• Release: Once bail is posted, you will be released from jail with instructions on your upcoming court dates.

Critical Deadlines

Missing these deadlines can have serious consequences:

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This hearing is crucial to challenge the suspension of your driver's license.
• Arraignment: Your first court appearance (arraignment) will be scheduled shortly after your arrest. The date and time will be on your release paperwork or sent to you by mail.
• License Suspension: If you fail to request an ALR hearing within 15 days, or if you lose the ALR hearing, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension depends on whether you took a breath or blood test and, if so, the results, or if you refused testing.

DUI Enforcement in Howard County

The Howard County Sheriff's Office is primarily responsible for DUI enforcement within the county.

Local Resources

• Howard County Sheriff: Big Spring, TX 79720. Phone: (432) 264-2231. Howard County Sheriff Website
• Howard County Detention Center: 3611 W Hwy 80, Big Spring, TX 79720. Main phone: (432) 264-2244. Howard County Detention Center Website
• Howard County Jail: I-20BL, Big Spring, TX 79720. Main phone: (432) 264-2244. Howard County Jail Website

To find a licensed bail bondsman, you can (this is a generic instruction, not a specific recommendation).

What Makes Howard County Different

Howard County, with its location and size, may have unique aspects to its DUI enforcement and court processes. Securing a court-appointed attorney can take time. Be prepared for a delay.