Winkler County License Hearing Guide

Winkler County, Texas DUI & DMV Guide: Navigating License Suspensions

If you've been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Winkler County, Texas, you're likely concerned about the potential consequences, including the suspension of your driver's license. Understanding the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) processes and your rights is crucial. This guide provides information specific to Winkler County residents to help you navigate this challenging situation.

Immediate Steps After a DUI Arrest in Winkler County

Upon arrest for DUI in Winkler County, your driver's license will likely be confiscated. The arresting officer will issue a Notice of Suspension, which serves as a temporary driving permit for a limited time, generally 40 days from the date of arrest. This notice also informs you of your right to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. You MUST request this hearing within 15 days of receiving the notice to contest the license suspension. Failure to do so will result in an automatic suspension of your driving privileges.

Requesting an ALR Hearing

To request an ALR hearing in Winkler County, you or your attorney must submit a written request to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The address to send this request is on the suspension notice. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and focuses solely on whether your license should be suspended.

During the ALR hearing, DPS must prove the following:

• You were lawfully stopped or arrested.
• There was probable cause to believe you were driving while intoxicated.
• You had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher, or refused to take a breath or blood test.

Winkler County DPS & Driver's License Reinstatement

After a license suspension, you will need to take steps to reinstate your driving privileges. Winkler County residents generally interact with the regional DPS office. Driver's license services are increasingly regionalized. Check the Texas DPS website for the nearest Driver's License office.

To reinstate your license after a DUI suspension in Winkler County, you'll need to:

1. Complete the suspension period: The length of the suspension depends on the circumstances of your case, including prior offenses.
2. Pay a reinstatement fee: The fee is typically $125.00. You can pay this fee online through the Texas DPS website or by mail.
3. Provide proof of SR-22 insurance: SR-22 insurance is a certificate of financial responsibility required by the state for high-risk drivers, including those convicted of DUI. You must maintain SR-22 insurance for two years from the date of conviction.
4. Complete a DUI education program: If ordered by the court, you must complete a state-approved DUI education program.
5. Install an ignition interlock device (IID): In some cases, especially for repeat offenders or those with high BAC levels, the court may order you to install an IID on your vehicle.

Understanding Winkler County Courts & Your DUI Case

While this guide focuses on DMV matters, remember that your DUI case will be handled in the Winkler County court system. The County Court handles misdemeanor DUI cases. The County Judge, Charles M. Wolf, presides over the Commissioners Court and has judicial duties involving certain misdemeanor criminal cases. The Winkler County Courthouse is located at 100 East Winkler Street, Kermit, TX 79745.

Given Winkler County's unique economic conditions, influenced by the Permian Basin oil industry, the court system handles various cases related to this industry.

Contacting Winkler County Officials

Here's key contact information for Winkler County officials who may be relevant to your DUI case:

• County Judge Charles M. Wolf: 100 East Winkler Street, First Floor Courthouse, Kermit, TX 79745; Phone: 432-586-6658. Administrative Assistant: Pearl Ramirez.
• County Clerk Pam Greene: 100 East Winkler Street, 1st Floor, Kermit. Chief Deputy: Tammie Lujan. Deputy: Julie Oxedine. This office maintains County Court records.

Proactive Steps: Obtaining a Copy of Your Driving Record

Before your ALR hearing or interacting with the DMV, obtain a copy of your Texas driving record. This allows you to verify its accuracy and understand any prior offenses that could impact your license suspension. You can request your driving record online through the Texas DPS website or by mail.

Resources

• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): https://www.dps.texas.gov/

Remember to request your ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest. Failure to do so will result in automatic license suspension.