Young County DWI Guide

DUI Arrest in Young County, TX: Complete Guide

Being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Young County can be a confusing and stressful experience. In 2024, law enforcement agencies in Young County made 73 DWI arrests, an increase from 67 in 2023. This guide provides immediate, practical information about what to expect after a DUI arrest in Young County, from navigating the legal process to understanding your rights and available resources.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Young County

After being pulled over and arrested for suspicion of DWI, you will likely be taken into custody by one of the primary arresting agencies in Young County: the Graham Police Department, the Young County Sheriff’s Office, or the Olney Police Department. The Graham Police Department is typically the most active in DWI enforcement due to its location in the county seat. This guide will walk you through the crucial steps you need to take, focusing on Young County's specific procedures and resources.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

• Arrest and Initial Processing: Following the arrest, you'll be transported to the Young County Jail, located at 315 N Cliff Dr, Graham, TX 76450.
• Booking: The booking process includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information. You'll also be required to surrender your personal belongings, which will be returned upon release.
• Phone Calls: After booking, you will be allowed to make phone calls. It's crucial to use this opportunity to contact a licensed bail bondsman or a DUI attorney.
• Magistration: You will appear before a magistrate who will inform you of the charges against you and your rights. The magistrate will also set your bail amount.
• Bail Posting: Bail allows you to be released from jail while your case is pending. A licensed bail bondsman can assist with posting bail. While a "Standard Bail Schedule" is unavailable, typical bail for a first-time DWI offense in Young County falls around 5.

Critical Deadlines

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Failure to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic suspension of your driver's license 40 days after your arrest. Request via fax at 512-424-2650, or call 800-394-9913.
• First Court Appearance: The date for your first court appearance will be set soon after your arrest. Missing this date can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest. Criminal Docket Days at Young County Court are typically held on Wednesdays.
• License Suspension: If you do not request an ALR hearing, your license will be suspended 40 days after your arrest. The length of the suspension depends on the specific circumstances of your case.

DUI Enforcement in Young County

DUI enforcement in Young County is a coordinated effort between the Graham Police Department, the Young County Sheriff's Office, and the Olney Police Department. The data indicates an increase in total DWI enforcement activity at the county level between 2023 and 2024, driven primarily by an increase in municipal arrests in Graham. A key aspect of DUI enforcement in Young County is the implementation of "No-Refusal" weekends and holidays. These periods, strategically timed around high-traffic events and holidays, allow law enforcement to obtain warrants for blood draws if a driver refuses a breathalyzer test. Common holidays for No-Refusal events include New Year's Eve/Day, St. Patrick's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the Christmas Season.

Local Resources

• Young County Court: 516 Fourth Street, Graham, TX 76450. Phone: 940-549-2030. The County Court handles misdemeanor DWI cases. Criminal Docket Days are typically held on Wednesdays. Contact Court Administrator Timi Hall at ccadmin@youngcounty.org.
• 90th District Court: 516 Fourth Street, Graham, TX 76450. The 90th District Court handles felony DWI cases. Communicate with the court via email at districtjudge@youngcounty.org.
• Young County Jail: 315 N Cliff Dr, Graham, TX 76450. Phone: 940-549-1555. Use the NetData system for public inmate verification.
• Finding a Licensed Bail Bondsman: To secure your release from jail, you'll need to work with a licensed bail bondsman. They will post a bond on your behalf, ensuring your appearance in court.
• Finding a DUI Attorney: A DUI attorney can provide legal representation and guide you through the court process. Look for experienced attorneys familiar with the Young County court system.
• Texas DPS Driver License Office: 516 Fourth Street, Graham, TX 76450. Appointment only, schedule online. Residents frequently travel to nearby offices in Abilene, Mineral Wells (600 FM 1821 North), or Wichita Falls (5505 North Central Expressway) where appointment slots may open sooner.
• Skidmore’s Graham Auto Rebuilders (Skids): Graham, TX. Phone: 940-549-2357. After-Hours Number: 940-550-4124. This is the primary impound and storage facility for vehicles towed by the Graham Police Department and the Young County Sheriff.
• Helen Farabee Centers Young County Behavioral Health Ctr: 1720 4th Street, Graham, TX 76450. Phone: 940-549-4896. This facility is the primary provider for court-ordered outpatient treatment and education in Graham.

What Makes Young County Different

Young County's approach to DUI enforcement and prosecution has several distinctive features. The Young County Sheriff’s Department has an arrest rate for low-level offenses that is higher than of other departments in Texas. This aggressive approach to low-level enforcement often intersects with DUI stops. Bail amounts for DWI offenses in Young County typically fall within the 5 range. For defendants on bond, Young County is particularly rigorous regarding conditions. Defendants are strictly prohibited from using or possessing marijuana, THC, or any unprescribed controlled substances, with compliance verified through random drug testing conducted at the Bond Supervision office. The cost of each test is , plus any applicable lab fees.