Lee County DWI Guide

DUI Arrest in Lee County, TX: Complete Guide

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Lee County, Texas, can be a frightening and confusing experience. You're likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. This guide provides a clear roadmap of what to expect, the immediate steps you need to take, and the resources available to help you navigate the legal process. We'll cover everything from understanding the booking process to protecting your driving privileges. Remember, this information is for guidance only and is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Lee County

After being stopped by law enforcement, potentially the Lee County Sheriff's Office, and suspected of driving under the influence, several things will happen. This guide is designed to walk you through each step, from the initial arrest to understanding your legal options.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The first 24 hours after a DUI arrest are crucial. Here's a timeline of what typically happens:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): The officer will likely administer Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) to assess your impairment. Refusal to take these tests can have consequences, but you should understand your rights before consenting.
• Breath or Blood Test: You will be asked to submit to a breath or blood test to determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). In Texas, the legal BAC limit is 0.08. Refusing these tests can lead to an automatic license suspension.
• Transportation to Lee County Jail: After the arrest, you will be transported to the Lee County Jail, located at 2122 FM448, Giddings, TX 78942.
• Booking Process: At the jail, you will undergo the booking process, which includes:
• Photographing (mugshot).
• Fingerprinting.
• Inventory of your personal belongings.
• A medical screening.
• Phone Calls: You will generally be allowed to make a phone call to contact a family member, friend, or attorney. It's crucial to use this call wisely.
• Bail: Bail will be set either according to a predetermined bail schedule or by a magistrate judge. The amount will depend on the specifics of your case and your criminal history. See our guide on
  Lee Bail Process After DUI Arrest for a detailed explanation.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in your DUI case. Here are some important dates to keep in mind:

• ALR Hearing Deadline: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your driver's license will be suspended. Contact the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles at 4000 Jackson Ave, Austin, TX 78731, or call (512) 465-3000.
• Court Appearance Dates: Your initial court date (arraignment) will be listed on the paperwork you received at the time of your arrest. It's crucial to appear in court on this date. Contact the Lee County Courthouse at 200 S Main St, Giddings, TX 78942 if you've misplaced your paperwork.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you do not request an ALR hearing, your license will be automatically suspended 40 days after your arrest.

DUI Enforcement in Lee County

While specific DUI checkpoint locations for Lee County are not documented in the provided research, it is important to note that the Lee County Sheriff's Office actively enforces DUI laws.

Local Resources

• Lee County Courthouse: 200 S Main St, Giddings, TX 78942
• Lee County Sheriff's Office: 2122 FM448, Giddings, TX 78942. Phone: (979) 542-2800.
• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles: 4000 Jackson Ave, Austin, TX 78731. Phone: (512) 465-3000.
• Finding a Licensed Bail Bondsman: Since specific bail bondsmen cannot be listed, you can find licensed bail bondsmen serving Lee County through online directories or by asking a family member or friend for recommendations. Ensure they are properly licensed and check their reviews.
• Finding a DUI Attorney: Similarly, you can find qualified DUI attorneys through online directories, referrals from friends or family, or by contacting the State Bar of Texas.

What Makes Lee County Different

Lee County is a smaller, Tier 3 county, which means that resources and services may be more limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. This can impact the DUI process in several ways:

• Court Structure: The court structure in Lee County may be less complex, potentially leading to a more streamlined process.
• Resource Availability: Access to resources like public transportation and specialized treatment programs may be limited.
• Personalized Attention: The smaller size of the community may result in more personalized attention from court staff and local agencies.

After a DUI arrest, you may need to contact the Lee County Sheriff's Office at (979) 542-2800 to inquire about the location of your impounded vehicle.