Houston County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Houston, TN: Complete Guide

Being arrested for a DUI in Houston, Tennessee can be a frightening and confusing experience. This guide is designed to provide you with immediate, practical information about what to expect and the steps you need to take to protect your rights. We'll cover everything from the immediate aftermath of the arrest to navigating the legal system and getting your life back on track. Remember, this guide provides general information and is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The hours following a DUI arrest are crucial. Here's a breakdown of what typically happens:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: Following a traffic stop, the officer may administer field sobriety tests (FSTs). While you have the right to refuse these tests, refusing may lead to an immediate arrest based on other observations.
• Breathalyzer or Blood Test: You'll likely be asked to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). In Tennessee, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%. Refusing to take this test can result in automatic license suspension, regardless of whether you're ultimately convicted of DUI.
• Booking Process at Houston Jail: After the arrest, you'll be taken to the Houston County jail. The booking process involves:
• Photographing (mugshot)
• Fingerprinting
• Inventory of your belongings
• A search
• Health screening
• Phone Calls: You have the right to make phone calls, typically after the booking process is complete. Use one call to contact a family member or friend and another to contact a DUI attorney.
• Bail in Houston: Bail is a sum of money you pay to the court as a guarantee that you will appear for your court dates. The amount of bail in Houston County can vary, but typical DUI bail amounts are discussed below. You can pay bail yourself (if you have the funds), or you can use a bail bondsman. A bail bondsman typically charges a percentage (often 10-15%) of the total bail amount.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in a DUI case. Pay close attention to these critical dates:

• ALR Hearing Deadline (15 days): After a DUI arrest in Tennessee, the Department of Safety (DMV) will attempt to suspend your driver's license, especially if you refused a breathalyzer or your BAC was above the legal limit. You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge this suspension. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in the automatic suspension of your license.
• Court Appearance Dates: You will receive a citation with your court date. Mark this date clearly on your calendar. Missing your court date can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you lose your ALR hearing or are convicted of DUI, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension varies depending on the circumstances of your case and any prior DUI convictions.

DUI Enforcement in Houston

Houston County, Tennessee, like other areas, actively enforces DUI laws. Expect to see increased patrols during holidays and weekends. Law enforcement officers are trained to identify signs of impairment, and they may use sobriety checkpoints to detect drunk drivers. Given Houston County's rural nature, be aware that law enforcement may be patrolling back roads and highways.

Local Resources

• Houston Court Information: (No courthouse data available yet - Check back for updates on the Houston County Courthouse address, phone number, and website.)
• Bail Bondsmen in the Area: (No specific recommendations, but a quick online search for "bail bondsman Houston TN" will provide options.) Remember to research and choose a reputable bondsman.
• DUI Attorneys: While we cannot recommend specific attorneys, it is highly advisable to consult with a qualified DUI attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can review the details of your case, advise you on your legal options, and represent you in court. Look for attorneys specializing in DUI defense in Tennessee.

What Makes Houston Different

Houston County's small size and rural character may influence DUI procedures in the following ways:

• Unique Local Procedures: Due to the county's size, court proceedings might be less formal than in larger cities. Be prepared for a more personal atmosphere.
• County-Specific Programs: (No specific county-specific programs are known at this time. Check back for updates.)
• Typical Bail Amounts in this County: While bail amounts can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the arrest (e.g., BAC level, prior record, presence of an accident), typical bail amounts for first-time DUI offenses in rural Tennessee counties like Houston often range from $500 to $2,500. Contacting a local bail bondsman can provide a more accurate estimate for your specific situation.

Remember, being arrested for DUI is a serious matter. Taking immediate action and seeking legal advice is crucial to protecting your rights and navigating the legal process effectively. This guide provides a starting point, but consulting with a qualified DUI attorney is essential for personalized guidance.