Wood County License Hearing Guide

Navigating a DWI Arrest in Wood County, Texas: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Wood County, Texas, knowing the specific local procedures can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Unlike urban areas, Wood County's rural setting and distinct judicial culture present unique challenges. This guide will walk you through key logistical hurdles, from vehicle impoundment to jail release, focusing on the specifics of Wood County.

Phase 1: Vehicle Impoundment and Wyatt's Towing

Your immediate concern after a DWI arrest is likely getting your vehicle back. In Wood County, Wyatt’s Towing Service is a primary provider for both the Sheriff’s Office and local police departments in Quitman and Mineola. This means understanding their procedures is crucial.

What to Do:

1. Contact Wyatt's Towing: Immediately determine where your vehicle was towed. Wyatt’s operates in both Quitman and Mineola. Calling ahead is essential, as they can be sparsely staffed, especially during lunch (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM).
2. Minimize Storage Fees: Texas law allows storage facilities to charge for a full day if the vehicle is on the lot for over 12 hours. A "day" ends at midnight. If your car was towed at 11:30 PM, retrieving it before midnight the next day can save you a day’s storage fee ($22.85). Aim to retrieve your vehicle as early as possible on the next business day.
3. Gather Required Documents: Wyatt's requires specific documentation before releasing your vehicle. This includes:

• Government-Issued Photo ID (Driver’s License or State ID)
• Proof of Ownership (Current registration, title, or notarized bill of sale)
• Proof of Valid Insurance

If you are not the registered owner, you'll need a Notarized Power of Attorney or TDLR Form VSF011 (Authorization to Remove a Vehicle). 4. Know the Fees: Be prepared for the following potential charges:

• Light Duty Tow (<10,000 lbs): Up to $272.00
• Daily Storage Fee (Vehicle <25 ft): Up to $22.85 per day
• Impoundment Fee: Up to $22.85
• Notification Fee: Up to $50.00 (if the vehicle remains unclaimed after 24-48 hours)
• After-Hours Release Fee: $50-$100 (outside standard 8 AM - 5 PM business hours)

1. Have Cash Ready: While Wyatt's accepts credit cards, systems outages are common in rural areas. Having approximately $320 in cash (covering the tow and two days of storage) is a safe bet.
2. Consider a Tow Hearing: If you believe the tow was unlawful (e.g., towed from a private lot during the arrest), you have 14 days to request a Tow Hearing with a Justice of the Peace (JP) in Wood County. This involves paying a civil filing fee (approximately $46 - $54).

Phase 2: Jail Release from the Wood County Justice Center

After the arrest, you'll be taken to the Wood County Justice Center for booking. Understanding the jail release process can help expedite your release and reduce anxiety.

What to Do:

1. Arraignment and Bail: Within 24-48 hours, you'll be arraigned by a Justice of the Peace (JP), informed of the charges, and have bail set. Bail amounts vary based on factors like your history and the specifics of your arrest.
2. Contact a Bail Bondsman: Several bail bondsmen operate near the Wood County Justice Center in Quitman. Having a bondsman lined up can speed up the release process.
3. Avoid Shift Change Delays: Release processing halts during shift changes (around 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM) and during inmate counts. Aim to finalize bond paperwork by 4:00 PM to avoid the evening shift change delay.
4. Understand Cash Bond Fees: If a family member attempts to post a cash bond directly, be aware that the full amount is required.
5. Coordinate: Coordinate with your lawyer and the bail bondsman to ensure a smooth release from the Wood County Jail.

Gold Dust: Wood County's Unique Challenges

Wood County's "partially wet" status creates confusion, particularly for tourists. In Justice Precinct One (Quitman), alcohol sales are restricted, leading to increased enforcement as people travel between "dry" and "wet" areas. The Wood County Courthouse in Quitman enforces strict procedural adherence. The "No Refusal" culture, led by Criminal District Attorney Angela Albers, means a dedicated and aggressive approach to DWI prosecution.

By knowing these specific details about Wood County, Texas, you can navigate the DWI arrest process more effectively. This includes everything from retrieving your vehicle from Wyatt's Towing to securing your release from the Wood County Justice Center.

For immediate assistance, contact Wyatt's Towing to determine the location of your vehicle and associated fees. Knowing these practicalities will make a stressful situation more manageable.