Maury County Bail Information

Navigating DUI Arrest and Release in Maury County: Bail, Vehicle Recovery, and Jail Protocols

If you've been arrested for DUI in Maury County, Tennessee, understanding the immediate steps for release and vehicle recovery is crucial. This guide provides a detailed overview of the processes involved, from initial arrest to reclaiming your vehicle and navigating jail protocols.

Understanding the Arrest and Impoundment Process

The DUI process in Maury County begins with the arrest, which triggers a series of logistical steps. A key element is the impoundment of your vehicle. Maury County utilizes a "Rotation Wrecker" system, meaning the towing company responding to your arrest depends on the arresting agency's jurisdiction: the Columbia Police Department (CPD) within city limits or the Maury County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD) for county areas.

If arrested by the CPD, the Support Services Division manages the towing rotation, segmented into "Light Tow" (passenger vehicles) and "Heavy Tow" (commercial vehicles). Towing companies on the CPD rotation must have a live operator available 24/7. The city is divided into zones, and if the assigned towing provider is unavailable, the call cascades to the adjacent zone.

For arrests by the MCSD, towing agencies must apply annually by January 31st to be on the rotation list. These agencies are vetted for insurance, storage security, and equipment capabilities. Importantly, these towing companies are independent contractors and cannot display markings implying they are agents of the Sheriff's Office.

Reclaiming Your Vehicle: Fees, Procedures, and Important Deadlines

Reclaiming your vehicle after a DUI arrest involves understanding the applicable fees and following a specific procedure. Several towing companies operate in Maury County, including D&D Towing & Recovery LLC (2643 Leah Drive, Columbia, TN), operating since 2007, and Die-Hard Towing & Recovery (122 Dyer St, Columbia).

Understanding the Costs:

• Towing Base Rate (City of Columbia): For non-consensual tows initiated by the CPD, the maximum charge is capped at $125.00 for standard tows. If the vehicle requires complex recovery (e.g., winching), the rate can increase to a maximum of $160.00.
• Storage Fees: Storage fees are capped at $25.00 per day, but these fees typically do not begin accruing until the vehicle has been held for 24 hours. This 24-hour window is crucial for minimizing costs.
• State-Level Caps (2025): State regulations for 2025 impose a maximum cap of approximately $210.00 for non-consent private property tows for vehicles under 7,000 lbs.

Release Procedure:

1. Obtain a Release Order: Before going to the tow yard, you must obtain a "Release Order" from the agency that ordered the tow (CPD or MCSD).
2. Check for Holds: Be aware that vehicles involved in DUI cases may be placed on a "DUI Hold" or "Evidence Hold," especially if the incident involved vehicular assault. During an evidence hold, storage fees generally do not accrue. Fees commence 24 hours after the release is authorized in the system.
3. Required Documentation: To secure the release form, you must present:

• Proof of Ownership: A valid title, current registration, or a Manufacturer Statement of Origin (MSO). A notarized bill of sale is required for recently purchased vehicles.
• Valid Driver: Since your license is likely seized, a second licensed driver must be present to operate the vehicle.

1. Vendor Contact and Payment: Identify the specific towing company used (information from the police desk) and pay all towing and storage fees directly to them.
2. Vehicle Inspection: Inspect the vehicle for damage before removing it from the lot, as proving liability afterward can be difficult.

Storage Facility Requirements:

Storage facilities must be located near the city limits and enclosed by a six-foot chain-link fence topped with barbed wire. They must also have an attendant on-call 24/7 to release vehicles.

Navigating the Maury County Jail: Detention and Release

Following the arrest, you will be taken to the Maury County Jail, located at 1300 Lawson White Drive, Columbia, TN 38401. The jail is state-certified for 386 inmates and utilizes a podular design. Upon arrival, you will undergo a medical screening and have your personal property inventoried.

The "Hold" Period and Bond:

In DUI cases, release is not immediate. A "sobering up" period is required. The length of this hold can vary, but it's typically around 12 hours.

Contact Information:

• Maury County Jail: 931-375-8600
• Columbia Police Department (Non-Emergency): 931-388-2727
• Maury County Sheriff's Department (Non-Emergency): 931-380-0200

After the hold period, you will typically be able to post bail. Contact the Maury County Jail at 931-375-8600 to inquire about the specific bail amount set in your case and acceptable methods of payment.