Bosque County DWI Court Guide
Everything you need to know about appearing in court for your DWI case in Bosque County.
Last verified: January 6, 2026
Bosque County Criminal Justice Center
About the Bosque County Court System
The Bosque 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 Bosque County Guides
The operational landscape of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) enforcement in Bosque County, Texas, represents a distinct subset of the state’s criminal justice system, characterized by what legal analysts term the "rural penalty."
DWI Court Procedures in Bosque County, Texas
If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Bosque County, Texas, understanding the local court procedures is crucial. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, Bosque County's rural setting presents unique logistical challenges that can impact your case. This guide provides specific information about navigating the DWI court system in Bosque County.
Law Enforcement Agencies and Their Impact
The arresting agency significantly influences the process. A DPS trooper arrest differs from a Sheriff's arrest. DPS troopers typically have video systems that automatically upload to cloud-based evidence servers. Sheriff's deputies, operating under local policy, may exercise more discretion regarding releasing a vehicle to a passenger, though this is increasingly rare.
Vehicle Impoundment After a DWI Arrest
After a DWI arrest in Bosque County, your vehicle will likely be impounded. Bosque County relies entirely on private Vehicle Storage Facilities (VSFs). There is no municipal impound lot. If a driver is arrested at Mile Marker 50 on Highway 6, the responding tow truck is determined not by proximity, but by whose turn it is on the rotation list. If the arrest is made by Meridian PD, the vehicle is almost certainly at Charlie’s Wrecker Service. If the arrest is by DPS, it could be with Cowboys Wrecker Service, ProTow, or another rotational operator.
Retrieving Your Vehicle
Retrieving your vehicle requires specific documentation. A Government-Issued Photo ID is necessary, which can be problematic as the officer usually confiscates the driver's license to issue a temporary driving permit (DIC-25). If the VSF refuses to accept the paper DIC-25 as valid identification without a photo backing it up (e.g., a passport), the defendant cannot retrieve their own car. Also needed is Proof of Ownership: Current registration or title.
Court Structure and Jurisdiction
DWI cases in Bosque County are handled in two courts:
- County Court at Law: Handles first and second offense DWIs (Class B and Class A Misdemeanors). The Presiding Judge is Hon. Cindy Vanlandingham (County Judge). The Bosque County Courthouse is located at 110 S. Main St., Meridian.
- 220th Judicial District Court: Handles felony DWIs (3rd offense+, DWI w/ Child Passenger, Intoxication Assault). The Presiding Judge is Hon. Shaun Carpenter. The 220th District serves Bosque, Comanche, and Hamilton Counties.
Court Decorum
Rural courts in Texas enforce decorum strictly. The 220th District enforces a "Professional Attire Policy". Shorts, tank tops, sandals, and hats are prohibited. Defendants appearing in inappropriate attire may be barred from the courtroom and issued a "Failure to Appear" warrant.
The Bosque County Law Enforcement Center is located at 266 FM 2840, Meridian, TX 76665.
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