Blanco County DWI Court Guide
Everything you need to know about appearing in court for your DWI case in Blanco County.
Last verified: January 6, 2026
Blanco County Court; 33rd and 424th Judicial District Courts
About the Blanco County Court System
The Blanco County judicial system is bifurcated: County Criminal Courts at Law (16 courts) handle misdemeanor DWI cases (first/second offenses), while Criminal District Courts (20+ courts) handle felony charges (third offense, child passenger, injury, or death). The CJC houses both - misdemeanor courts on mid-rise floors, felony courts on high-rise floors.
Critical: Do NOT Do These Things
Warrant issued immediately
Anything you say can be used against you
Can be used as evidence
Additional criminal charges
Bail revoked, returned to jail
Others can be subpoenaed to testify
Security Screening & Prohibited Items
What to Expect
- Metal detector screening (remove belt, watch)
- Bag/purse X-ray scanning
- Allow 15-20 minutes for security
- Typical wait: 1-3 hours once inside
Do NOT Bring
- Weapons (including pocket knives)
- Pepper spray or mace
- Large bags or backpacks
- Food or drinks (water OK)
Court Day Checklist
Required Documents
Day-Of Reminders
Tip: Screenshot or print this checklist. Check items off as you prepare the night before.
How DWI Cases Move Through Court
1. Arraignment
First appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges
- Enter plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date scheduled
What to Know:
- Most plead Not Guilty initially
- Attorney will advise on plea
- Write down next court date
- Request public defender if needed
2. Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months. Your attorney handles most of this.
What Your Attorney Does:
3. Plea Bargain or Trial
Over 90% of cases resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain (Common)
- Reduced charges possible
- Lower penalties
- Faster resolution
- Known outcome
Trial (Rare ~5%)
- Jury decides guilt
- Higher risk/reward
- Takes 6-12+ months
- More expensive
4. Sentencing
Judge imposes penalties. First offense usually means probation.
Common Outcomes (1st Offense):
Related Blanco County Guides
The judicial administration in Blanco County is bifurcated: misdemeanor offenses are handled by the Blanco County Court, presided over by the County Judge, while felony offenses fall under the 33rd and 424th Judicial District Courts.
Blanco County DWI Court Procedures
If you've been arrested for DWI in Blanco County, Texas, it's essential to understand the local court procedures and logistical challenges you may face. Blanco County's rural nature presents unique hurdles compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Court Structure & Jurisdiction
DWI cases in Blanco County are divided based on the severity of the charge.
- Misdemeanor DWI (1st and 2nd Offenses): These cases are handled by the Blanco County Court, presided over by the County Judge, Hon. Brett Bray.
- Felony DWI (3rd Offense or More): Felony DWI charges, Intoxication Assault, and Intoxication Manslaughter are handled by the 33rd and 424th Judicial District Courts. These courts have concurrent jurisdiction over Blanco, Burnet, Llano, and San Saba counties. Because of this multi-county setup, the judges are "traveling judges," meaning they are not always physically present in Blanco County. Celia Doyle serves as the District Clerk, handling all filings for felony cases.
Judges
- Hon. Brett Bray: County Judge presiding over Blanco County Court, handling misdemeanor DWI cases. With over 30 years of experience and Board Certification in Administrative Law, Judge Bray is likely to adhere strictly to legal procedures.
- Hon. J. Allan Garrett: Judge of the 33rd District Court.
- Hon. Evan Stubbs: Judge of the 424th District Court. These judges rotate through Blanco, Burnet, Llano, and San Saba counties. This system means that court appearances might be compressed into specific days when the judge is physically in Johnson City.
Bail Bonds
Elk Bail Bonds is the dominant bail bond provider in Blanco County. Their familiarity with local procedures may expedite the release process. Other bail bond providers exist, including AA Best Bail Bonds, and Texas Low Cost Bail Bonds.
Vehicle Impoundment
After a DWI arrest, your vehicle will likely be impounded. Blanco County utilizes a "Rotation List" system for non-consent tows. Depending on where you were arrested, your vehicle could be towed to a facility in a neighboring county, such as New Braunfels, which presents significant logistical challenges for retrieval. Wimberley Towing is a prominent provider, with a facility located at 174 Koch Road, Blanco, TX 78606. Hill Country Customs services the area and may tow vehicles to locations in New Braunfels (e.g., 5505 W. State Hwy 46; 153 E. Nacogdoches) or Spring Branch (1052 Rainbow Dr.). Hill Country Customs requires 1-hour notice prior to vehicle pick-up.
The Blanco County Jail is located at 400 US Hwy 281 South, Johnson City, Texas.
24/7 Legal Support
Need a DUI Attorney in Blanco County?
Get connected with experienced DUI attorneys who know Blanco County courts and can fight for the best outcome.