Richmond County DUI Court Guide

The logistical landscape for a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) defendant in Richmond County, Georgia, constitutes a complex, multi-layered ecosystem. Success in this environment is contingent upon managing the specific protocols of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO), the Charles B. Webster Detention Center (CBWDC), and the privatized probation entity, CSRA Probation Services.

Initial Vehicle Impoundment and Towing

When arrested for DUI in Richmond County, your vehicle will likely be seized and towed. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) uses a "wrecker rotation" list of private towing companies. The officer on the scene contacts dispatch, which assigns the tow to the next company on the list. You have no say in which company tows your vehicle. Your vehicle may be towed anywhere within Richmond County – from Hephzibah to West Augusta. You likely won't receive a tow slip at the time of arrest. To find out where your vehicle was towed, you'll need to query the Sheriff’s Records Bureau or review the incident report.

Towing costs are governed by the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) Maximum Rate Tariff No. 5. Expect to pay a minimum of $200-$250 due to storage fees accruing while you are detained.

A key distinction is whether your vehicle is under a "Standard Impound" or an "Investigative Hold." If the DUI involved an accident, vehicular homicide, or is part of a broader felony investigation, the vehicle is placed on "Hold." If on hold, RCSO policy explicitly states: "Under no circumstances will the vehicle be released to the owner from the station". You'll need a release order from the investigating deputy or detective, processed through the Records Bureau at 400 Walton Way. Often, the vehicle is towed again to a private lot after the hold is lifted, incurring a second towing fee.

Charles B. Webster Detention Center (CBWDC) and Bail

After arrest, you'll be taken to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center (CBWDC) located at 1941 Phinizy Road, Augusta, GA 30906. The Booking Desk can be reached at (706) 821-1101 / 821-1110. Note that the jail is geographically separated from the Sheriff's Administration building at 400 Walton Way, so don't go there to post bond.

Be aware of "Shift Change," typically around 6:00 AM/PM or 7:00 AM/PM. During this time, all inmate movement ceases, and processing releases can be delayed by 2-4 hours.

You can post bond via cash, money order, cashier's check, or online through the "Cash Bond Online" system. However, refunds aren't automatic and require contacting the Clerk’s Office after your case concludes. Alternatively, you can use a professional bonding company, such as "Anytime Bail Bonding" at 3435 Peach Orchard Road, operating near the jail. They charge a premium (12-15% of the total bond amount) but offer speed and liquidity.

DDS License Suspension and Appeals

Upon arrest, if you refused the breath/blood test or tested over 0.08, the officer issues a DDS Form 1205, which serves as a temporary 30-day permit and a notice of intent to suspend your license. To prevent suspension, you must file an appeal or apply for an ignition interlock permit within 30 days of the arrest.

Local Augusta DDS offices cannot accept these appeals. They must be mailed to: Georgia Department of Driver Services, Records Management – Hearing Requests, P.O. Box 80447, Conyers, GA 30013. The appeal requires a $150.00 filing fee paid by check or money order. Certified Mail with Return Receipt is recommended.

For reinstatements and ID cards, visit the Augusta Customer Service Center at 3423 Mike Padgett Hwy, Augusta, GA 30906. Operating hours are Tuesday - Friday: 08:00 AM - 06:00 PM, and Saturday: 08:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Ignition Interlock Devices (IID)

If ordered by the court or if you choose to obtain an IILDP, you'll need an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Dominant providers in Augusta include Intoxalock and SmartStart. Intoxalock uses local mechanic shops for installations, such as Auto Repairs LLC on Gordon Hwy.

Probation

Misdemeanor probation in Richmond County is handled by CSRA Probation Services, a for-profit entity. Their headquarters is located at 802-D Oakhurst Drive, Evans, GA.