Wood County Bail Information

Navigating a DUI Arrest in Wood County, Texas: A Guide to Bail, Towing, and Release

If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Wood County, Texas, time is of the essence. Understanding the local procedures for vehicle impoundment, bail, and release can save you significant time and money. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the process, focusing on key logistical hurdles and practical solutions specific to Wood County.

Phase 1: Retrieving Your Vehicle from Wyatt's Towing

Immediately after a DWI arrest, your vehicle is likely impounded. In Quitman and Mineola, Wyatt’s Towing Service is the primary provider used by the Wood County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments. Their deep ties to the law enforcement community make them the go-to choice for tows in the area.

Actionable Steps:

1. Contact Wyatt's Towing: Find out where your vehicle is located (Quitman or Mineola lot). Don’t delay!
2. Understand the Costs: Towing fees can quickly add up. As of 2024/2025, the maximum light-duty tow fee (vehicles under 10,000 lbs) is $272.00. Daily storage is capped at $22.85 per day, plus a one-time $22.85 impoundment fee. A notification fee of up to $50.00 can also be charged if your vehicle remains unclaimed for more than 24-48 hours and a registered letter has to be sent to the registered owner.
3. Beware the Midnight Cutoff: Texas law allows storage facilities to charge for only one day if the vehicle is on the lot for less than 12 hours. However, the "day" begins at midnight. If your vehicle was towed late Friday night, picking it up early Saturday might still result in two-day's worth of charges.
4. Gather Required Documents: To retrieve your vehicle, you'll need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or state ID), proof of ownership (current registration, title, or notarized bill of sale), and proof of valid insurance. If you are not the registered owner, you need a notarized Power of Attorney or a TDLR Form VSF011 (Authorization to Remove a Vehicle). Without these documents, Wyatt’s is legally obligated to refuse release.
5. The Tow Hearing Option: If you believe your vehicle was towed without probable cause (e.g., towed from a private lot or due to an officer’s error), you have 14 days to request a "Tow Hearing" with any Justice of the Peace in Wood County. This requires a standard civil filing fee (approximately $46-$54).
6. "Gold Dust" Insider Tip: Wyatt’s can be sparsely staffed during the lunch hour (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM). Call ahead to confirm that a release officer is on-site. While Wyatt’s accepts cash and credit cards, reported system issues are common. Bring exact cash for the tow and the first two days of storage (approximately $320).

Phase 2: Securing Bail and Jail Release from the Wood County Justice Center

Following arrest and vehicle impoundment, you'll be taken to the Wood County Justice Center, the central booking hub for the county.

Actionable Steps:

1. Arraignment: Within 24 to 48 hours of booking, you'll be arraigned by a Justice of the Peace (JP). The judge will inform you of the charges and set your bail amount. Bail amounts for DWI typically align with East Texas regional standards but can vary based on your record and aggravating factors (high BAC, accident).
2. Contact a Bondsman: Several bail bondsmen operate in Quitman, some within walking distance of the Justice Center.
3. Avoid Shift Change Delays: Shift changes at the Wood County Jail (typically around 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM) halt all release processing, including the "count" of inmates. Aim to have your bond paperwork finalized by 4:00 PM to avoid the evening shift change blackout, which can delay release by 2-3 hours.

Phase 3: Understanding "No Refusal" Weekends

Wood County actively participates in "No Refusal" weekends, particularly during holidays like New Year's Eve, Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. During these periods, the process for obtaining blood search warrants is streamlined.

What to Know:

• If you refuse a breath or blood test, law enforcement can quickly obtain a warrant from an on-call magistrate.
• Mobile phlebotomists may be on-site to collect blood samples rapidly.
• Saturation patrols are increased, especially near Lake Fork and the intersections of US-69 and US-80.

This underscores the importance of consulting with an attorney if you face a DWI charge in Wood County.

Phase 4: Wood County's Unique Alcohol Laws

Unlike much of Texas, Wood County remains "partially wet." In Justice Precinct One, including Quitman, alcohol sales are restricted, leading to confusion among tourists and visitors. This can contribute to increased enforcement as individuals travel between "dry" and "wet" jurisdictions within the county. Be aware of these local alcohol laws to avoid unintentional violations.

Key Contacts and Information:

• Wyatt’s Towing Service: Contact them to determine the location of your impounded vehicle and associated fees.
• Wood County Justice Center: Located in Quitman, this is where individuals arrested for DWI are processed and detained.
• Justice of the Peace Courts: File a tow hearing appeal here within 14 days of the tow. Fees are typically $46-54.
• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR): Regulates towing and storage fees. Review TDLR regulations to understand your rights and ensure you are not overcharged.

Taking proactive steps to understand the logistical complexities after a DWI arrest in Wood County can ease the stress and financial burden. Don't delay, start with contacting Wyatt’s Towing to start the process of getting your vehicle back.