A DWI arrest is stressful for everyone involved. This article gives a general, plain-language overview of what can happen next. It is not legal advice, and the details of each case differ.
What can happen following a DWI arrest
After an arrest, the person is typically taken into custody and goes through a booking and jail processing sequence. Charges are recorded, and a judge or magistrate becomes involved in the next steps. What follows depends on the facts of the case and the court’s procedures.
Booking and jail processing
Booking generally involves recording identifying information, the charge and property. It can take time, and records may not show up online immediately. If you are trying to find the person, start with the official Tarrant County inmate search and check back if they don’t appear right away.
Who decides bail eligibility and conditions
Bail eligibility and any conditions are decided by the court, through a judge or magistrate, not by a bail bond company. The timing depends on the circumstances of the case and applicable jail and court procedures, and weekend or holiday processing may affect release timing.
What families should know before posting bond
Before posting any bond, confirm the bond amount, the charge and the facility, and understand who is signing and what they are agreeing to. Ask about the premium, any collateral and the cosigner’s responsibilities. Do not rely on anyone who promises a particular result or a specific release time.
When a bail bond company may assist
If the court has set a bond and the family chooses a surety bond, a licensed bail bond company may help by posting the bond for a premium under a written agreement. We can explain how the process works and what is needed. Once the bond is delivered, the jail handles the release, and release times vary.
Additional DWI-related restrictions that may apply
Depending on the case, the court may set conditions as part of release. Examples that are sometimes discussed include alcohol-related restrictions, testing or monitoring, or a device on a vehicle. We can’t say which conditions will apply to a particular person, so review the court’s paperwork and ask the defense attorney. Separate consequences, such as those involving a driver’s license, may also come up, and an attorney is the right person to explain them.
What happens after release
Being released is not the end of the case. The person will usually have court dates and must follow any release conditions. Keep a record of dates, instructions and documents, and stay in contact with the attorney and the bail bond company if one was used.
Importance of appearing in court
Appearing at every court date matters. Missing court can lead to serious consequences, including a possible warrant and effects on the bond. If a date is missed or there is a conflict, contact an attorney and the bail bond company right away.
When to consult a qualified criminal defense lawyer
A DWI charge can have long-lasting effects, so consider speaking with a qualified criminal defense lawyer as early as possible. An attorney can explain the charge, the options and the likely next steps for your situation. A bail bond company can help with the bond, but it does not provide legal advice.
How David Gallagher Bail Bonds may assist
Our role is to explain the bail bond process and help families with the bond after the court has set bail. We can walk you through the information needed, the agreement, and what to expect, around the clock.
If a family member has been arrested for DWI in Fort Worth or Tarrant County, contact David Gallagher Bail Bonds at 817-831-8881 to discuss available bail bond assistance.
