Just Got Arrested for DWI in San Antonio?

If you've been arrested for DWI in San Antonio, your case will be processed through one of two court systems depending on the circumstances of your arrest. Understanding this process is the first step toward protecting your rights and your future.

Bexar County Criminal District Courts handle most DWI cases in San Antonio. There are multiple criminal district courts, and your case will be randomly assigned to one of them. These courts handle misdemeanor and felony DWI cases, with experienced prosecutors who specialize in DWI prosecution.

San Antonio Municipal Court handles Class C misdemeanor traffic offenses within city limits. However, since DWI is typically a Class B misdemeanor or higher, your case will likely be heard in county court unless it involves a minor-related DUI charge.

Weekend and Holiday Arrests: If you're arrested on a weekend or holiday in San Antonio, you'll still go through the magistration process at the Bexar County Jail. Magistrates are available 24/7 to set bond and inform you of the charges. However, your first court appearance may be delayed until the next business day, which can affect your release timeline.

After a DWI arrest in San Antonio, you'll be transported to the Bexar County Adult Detention Center for booking and processing. Understanding what to expect can help reduce anxiety during an already stressful situation.

The Booking Process: After arrival at the detention center, you'll be photographed, fingerprinted, and your personal belongings will be inventoried. A magistrate will inform you of the charges and set your bond amount. The entire booking process typically takes 4-8 hours, though it can be longer during busy periods like holiday weekends.

Bexar County District Attorney's Approach: The Bexar County DA's office takes DWI cases seriously and has a dedicated team of prosecutors who handle these cases. They typically pursue first-time DWI offenders with standard plea offers that include probation, fines, alcohol education classes, and community service. However, cases involving high BAC, accidents, or injuries are prosecuted more aggressively.

BAC Testing Procedures: San Antonio Police Department typically offers breath testing at the station using the Intoxilyzer 9000. If you refuse the breath test, or if the officer believes drugs are involved, they may seek a warrant for a blood draw. During "no-refusal" periods (holidays, special events), judges are on-call to quickly sign warrants for blood draws.

The 15-day ALR deadline is one of the most critical deadlines you'll face after a DWI arrest in San Antonio. This administrative hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your license will be suspended before your case even goes to trial.

Suspension Periods: If you fail a breath or blood test (0.08% or higher), you face a 90-day suspension for a first offense. If you refused the test, the suspension period increases to 180 days for a first offense. These suspensions can be contested through the ALR hearing process.

SR-22 Insurance Requirements: After a DWI conviction or ALR suspension in Texas, you'll be required to file an SR-22 certificate of insurance for two years. This proves you carry the minimum liability coverage required by law. Expect your insurance rates to increase significantly—often 200-400% above your previous rates.

Occupational Driver's License (ODL): If your license is suspended, you may be eligible for an Occupational Driver's License that allows you to drive to work, school, and for essential household duties. San Antonio residents can apply through the Bexar County courts.

Texas DWI penalties are the same statewide, but Bexar County judges and prosecutors have discretion in how they handle cases. Understanding the potential consequences can help you make informed decisions about your case.

Enhanced Penalties: Certain factors can increase the severity of your DWI charge. A BAC of 0.15% or higher elevates a first DWI to a Class A misdemeanor. Having a child passenger under 15 adds a separate felony charge. DWI with serious bodily injury (intoxication assault) is a third-degree felony, while DWI causing death (intoxication manslaughter) is a second-degree felony.

Bexar County Ignition Interlock Requirements: Many Bexar County judges require installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) as a condition of bond or probation. An IID requires you to provide a breath sample before starting your vehicle. The device must be installed for at least one year for most first-time offenders, and you're responsible for the installation and monthly monitoring costs ($75-150/month).

Beyond Fines and Jail: The total cost of a DWI in San Antonio typically ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 when you factor in attorney fees, court costs, surcharges, insurance increases, alcohol education programs, and interlock device costs. Many people also face professional consequences, including job loss and difficulty finding future employment.

DWI enforcement in the San Antonio metropolitan area involves multiple law enforcement agencies. Where you're arrested determines which court handles your case and which jail you'll be booked into.

Note: New Braunfels is in Comal County, not Bexar County. If you're arrested in New Braunfels, your case will be handled by Comal County courts, with different judges and prosecutors. Similarly, arrests in Boerne go through Kendall County courts.