Starr County DWI Court Guide
Everything you need to know about appearing in court for your DWI case in Starr County.
Last verified: January 6, 2026
Starr County Criminal Justice Center
About the Starr County Court System
The Starr County judicial system is bifurcated: County Criminal Courts at Law (16 courts) handle misdemeanor DWI cases (first/second offenses), while Criminal District Courts (20+ courts) handle felony charges (third offense, child passenger, injury, or death). The CJC houses both - misdemeanor courts on mid-rise floors, felony courts on high-rise floors.
Critical: Do NOT Do These Things
Warrant issued immediately
Anything you say can be used against you
Can be used as evidence
Additional criminal charges
Bail revoked, returned to jail
Others can be subpoenaed to testify
Security Screening & Prohibited Items
What to Expect
- Metal detector screening (remove belt, watch)
- Bag/purse X-ray scanning
- Allow 15-20 minutes for security
- Typical wait: 1-3 hours once inside
Do NOT Bring
- Weapons (including pocket knives)
- Pepper spray or mace
- Large bags or backpacks
- Food or drinks (water OK)
Court Day Checklist
Required Documents
Day-Of Reminders
Tip: Screenshot or print this checklist. Check items off as you prepare the night before.
How DWI Cases Move Through Court
1. Arraignment
First appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges
- Enter plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date scheduled
What to Know:
- Most plead Not Guilty initially
- Attorney will advise on plea
- Write down next court date
- Request public defender if needed
2. Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months. Your attorney handles most of this.
What Your Attorney Does:
3. Plea Bargain or Trial
Over 90% of cases resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain (Common)
- Reduced charges possible
- Lower penalties
- Faster resolution
- Known outcome
Trial (Rare ~5%)
- Jury decides guilt
- Higher risk/reward
- Takes 6-12+ months
- More expensive
4. Sentencing
Judge imposes penalties. First offense usually means probation.
Common Outcomes (1st Offense):
Related Starr County Guides
A first-time DWI offender in Starr County may face a standard $2,500 bond. To be released, they must typically pay a bondsman 10-15% of this amount (approx. $250-$375).
DWI Court Procedures in Starr County, Texas: A Local Guide
If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Starr County, Texas, understanding the local court procedures can help you navigate the legal process. This guide provides information specific to Starr County.
Socio-Economic Considerations
Keep in mind that Starr County is the second poorest county in Texas. Mandatory costs associated with a DWI, such as towing ($400+), bail bond premiums ($300–$500), state surcharges, interlock device fees ($100/month), and probation fees ($60/month), can be insurmountable barriers for many.
Law Enforcement Agencies
You may have been arrested by one of these agencies:
- Starr County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO): Primarily patrols unincorporated areas and rural Farm-to-Market (FM) roads.
- Rio Grande City Police Department (RGCPD): Focuses on the city of Rio Grande City, particularly Main Street and U.S. 83 within city limits. Their headquarters are at 650 FM 755.
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): Highly active on state highways, especially U.S. 83. DPS Troopers typically utilize dash-cam technology.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) / Border Patrol: While not primary traffic enforcers, they maintain a significant presence and may initiate stops that lead to DWI investigations by other agencies.
Initial Stop and Investigation
Given that Spanish is the dominant language for many residents, the administration of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) may present issues. If an officer provides instructions in broken Spanish, the validity of the test results may be challenged.
Detention Logistics
The central hub of the county’s criminal justice system is the Starr County Jail, located at 102 E. 6th Street, Rio Grande City, TX 78582.
Bail Bonds
Key local bail bond companies include:
- Castañeda Bail Bonds: 280 W. 2nd St, Rio Grande City.
- Rio Grande City Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds: 300 East Main St.
Vehicle Impoundment
When your vehicle is impounded, it is taken to a private towing company lot. The SCSO and RGCPD utilize a rotation list. Identified towing companies include Capital City Towing and R&R Towing and Wrecker.
Starr County Jail
The Starr County Jail is located at 102 E. 6th Street, Rio Grande City, TX 78582.
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