Williamson County DWI Bail Guide

Navigating Bail After a DUI Arrest in Williamson County, Texas

If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Williamson County, Texas, understanding the bail process is crucial. The Williamson County Jail is located at 306 W 4th Street, Georgetown, TX 78626. Knowing your rights and the procedures involved can significantly impact your immediate freedom and the trajectory of your case. Williamson County is known for its stringent enforcement of DWI laws, so acting quickly and strategically is essential.

Understanding the Booking and Magistration Process

Following a DWI arrest, you'll be taken to the Williamson County Jail for booking. Booking hours are 24/7, 365 days a year. During booking, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken, and your information will be entered into the system.

Next comes magistration. A magistrate will inform you of the charges against you and your rights, including the right to an attorney. They will also set your bail amount. The amount of bail for a DWI in Texas depends on several factors, including the severity of the offense, your criminal history, and your ties to the community.

Posting Bail in Williamson County

Once bail is set, you have a few options:

• Cash Bail: You can pay the full bail amount in cash to the court.
• Surety Bond: You can use a bail bondsman. A bail bondsman typically charges a percentage (usually 10-15%) of the total bail amount as a fee. This fee is non-refundable.
• Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond: In some cases, you may be eligible for a PR bond, which allows you to be released on your own recognizance without paying bail. Eligibility for a PR bond depends on several factors, including your criminal history, ties to the community, and the severity of the offense. Williamson County Pretrial Services evaluates individuals for PR bonds.

The "Cite and Release" Option

Williamson County utilizes a "Cite and Release" program for certain misdemeanor offenses, including some DWI charges. If you are released on a "Notice to Appear," it means you were given a citation at the scene and released instead of being taken to jail. However, don't mistake this for a dismissal. You must appear in court on the date specified on the citation. It is wise to treat this appearance date as a jail surrender. Arrive by 8:30 AM, dress in business casual attire, and leave all electronics at home.

Vehicle Impoundment and Associated Costs

A significant logistical and financial burden following a DWI arrest in Williamson County is the impoundment of your vehicle. Williamson County operates under a "Non-Consent Towing" framework, meaning the officer will call the next available towing company on the rotation list for that specific geographic zone. You cannot choose the towing company.

The fees associated with impoundment can add up quickly. As of 2024-2025, the maximum allowable towing fee is approximately $272.00. Storage fees are capped at $22.85 per day.

Key Tip: The "Drop Fee"

If you arrive at the scene before the tow truck leaves the property (i.e., it hasn't entered a public roadway), you have the right to request a "drop fee." The towing company must release your vehicle for a fee that cannot exceed 50% of the maximum towing fee (approximately $136.00). They must accept cash, credit, or debit cards.

Locating Your Vehicle

Williamson County uses the AutoReturn system to manage impounded vehicles. You can search for your vehicle on the AutoReturn website or the county’s "Find Vehicle" portal using your license plate or VIN.

Administrative License Revocation (ALR)

In addition to criminal charges, a DWI arrest triggers an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process. This is a separate civil proceeding that can result in the suspension of your driver's license.

Actionable Step: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing to challenge the suspension of your license. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic license suspension.

Important Contact Information

• Williamson County Jail: 306 W 4th Street, Georgetown, TX 78626
• Jail Information Phone: 512-943-1365
• Williamson County Courts: 405 Martin Luther King Street, Georgetown, TX 78626

Remember to verify your court date by checking the online docket weekly, as mail notifications can be unreliable.