Williamson County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Williamson County, TX: Complete Guide

Being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Williamson County, Texas, can feel overwhelming. Known for its "law and order" judicial philosophy, Williamson County enforces DWI laws strictly. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to navigate the legal system, understand your rights, and protect your future. We'll cover everything from getting out of jail to understanding the nuances of vehicle impoundment in Wilco.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Williamson County

After being pulled over and arrested for suspicion of DWI, you'll face a series of immediate procedures. This guide will help you navigate the process. From understanding the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process to dealing with the financial shock of non-consent towing fees, we’ll walk you through what to expect. Williamson County has a reputation for stringent enforcement and a "law and order" judicial philosophy. Unlike neighboring Travis County, which may be perceived as having a more permissive judicial culture, Williamson County maintains a reputation for stringent enforcement.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

• Arrest and Initial Processing: After the arrest, you will be taken to the Williamson County Jail for booking. The jail is located at 306 W 4th Street, Georgetown, TX 78626.
• Booking: The booking process includes fingerprinting, photographing, and gathering personal information. Booking is conducted seven days a week, 365 days a year.
• Magistration: You will appear before a magistrate judge, who will inform you of the charges against you and set bail. Be aware that rigid magistration schedules can sometimes extend detention times.
• Phone Calls: You will typically be allowed to make a phone call shortly after booking. Use this call to contact a loved one or an attorney.
• Bail: Bail allows you to be released from jail while awaiting trial. The amount of bail varies depending on the specifics of your case.

Critical Deadlines

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to contest the suspension of your driver's license. Missing this deadline results in automatic license suspension.
• Court Appearance Date: A court date will be assigned. Check the online docket weekly as mail notifications are unreliable. If released on "Cite and Release," treat the appearance date as a jail surrender – arrive by 8:30 AM, dressed in business casual, and bring no electronics.

DUI Enforcement in Williamson County

Williamson County is known for its aggressive DWI enforcement. The county utilizes "No Refusal" weekends, obtaining blood warrants to test drivers suspected of intoxication who refuse breathalyzer tests. This is a common practice, so be aware of your rights and the potential for a blood draw.

Local Resources

• Williamson County Jail: 306 W 4th Street, Georgetown, TX 78626
• Williamson County Jail Information Phone: 512-943-1365
• Williamson County Court Address: 405 Martin Luther King Street, Georgetown, TX 78626
• DWI Drug Court: Williamson County offers a DWI Drug Court program. Check the Williamson County website for more information.
• Locating Your Vehicle (AutoReturn): Use the AutoReturn website or the county’s "Find Vehicle" portal using the License Plate or VIN.

What Makes Williamson County Different

Williamson County operates under a strict legal ecosystem characterized by rigid procedural adherence and aggressive enforcement of statutory timelines. The county aggressively uses "No Refusal" blood warrants.

• Vehicle Impoundment: In Williamson County, a tow initiated by law enforcement during a traffic stop or arrest is classified as an Incident Management (IM) Tow. The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Non-Consent Towing Rotation List governs these tows. You cannot choose the towing company. The officer requests the next available company on the rotation list for that specific zone.
• Towing Fees: Williamson County adheres to the maximum fee schedules authorized by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Storage fees generally accrue at midnight. If a vehicle is towed at 11:30 PM and released at 12:30 AM, the facility could theoretically charge for two days. However, state law provides a specific protection: If a vehicle is stored for parts of two calendar days but the total duration is less than 12 hours, the facility may only charge for one day of storage.
• The "Drop Fee": If the vehicle owner arrives at the scene after the tow truck has hooked up the vehicle but before the truck has entered a public roadway, the owner has an absolute right to halt the tow. The operator must release the vehicle for a "Drop Fee" which cannot exceed 50% of the maximum tow fee (approx. $136.00 for a light-duty car). The operator is legally required to accept cash, credit, or debit cards on the spot. If the vehicle is not fully hooked up (e.g., safety chains not attached, tow lights not connected), the operator must release the vehicle free of charge.

Remember to request your ALR hearing immediately. Use the fax number to ensure timely submission.