If you have been charged with DWI/DUI in Texas, you were likely taken to jail and need some type of bail or bond to get out. Understanding how all of this works, how it can be paid, and the consequences for failing to follow the conditions of the bond are important to know. The bond can play an important part in your criminal case.
If you are charged with a DWI in Texas, contact Texas DWI lawyer Jason S. English to fight for your rights and help you get on with your life. You are not alone, and you can fight this.
Experienced, Aggressive Austin, Texas DWI Attorney
Texas DWI defense lawyer Jason S. English has more than 15 years of experience as a prosecutor and will use that experience to represent you after a drunk driving arrest. He understands how the prosecutors approach a DWI case and will fight for your constitutional rights to keep your license and avoid a criminal record. You do not have to plead guilty just because the police arrested you on suspicion of a crime.
How Much Will Bond Cost in Austin TX?
The bond can be set at varying amounts, depending on the nature of your case and your criminal history. Factors that can affect the amount of your bail for a DWI include:
- any previous DWI convictions on your record;
- whether you refused to take a mandatory chemical test to determine BAC level or presence of drugs;
- Whether you are considered dangerous, violent, or likely to leave the county or state (based on prior criminal history); and
- whether you are accused of committing intoxication assault or intoxication manslaughter.
How Can I Pay My Bond in Austin TX?
The bond can be paid in cash by yourself, or it can be done through a bail bondsman service. A bail bondsman will pay the entire bond and in return, you will be expected to pay a portion of the bond, typically 10%. For example, if your bond is $5,000, you will have to pay the bondsman $500. Most jails will provide a list of local bail bondsmen.
Property bonds are another alternative. This allows defendants to use the equity in a person's home as collateral for the bail. The use of this type of bail is rare but can be used in certain circumstances.
What is "Release Without Bail?"?
A person can be released on his or her own "personal recognizance," which is also referred to as "release without bail." This means you or your family will not have to put up money to get out but the Travis County Pretrial Services will charge a fee for personal bonds.
To be released, you must promise to attend all court hearings and other required events. Failure to do so can result in the revocation of your bond. This is usually granted only to those with no criminal history.
Bond Violations in Austin TX
A person is "free on bond" when he or she is out of jail but under the requirements of the bond. Failure to follow all the rules can result in forfeiture of the bail or bond, meaning that any money put in can be confiscated and a warrant may be issued for your arrest. You may also be hunted by your bondsman – if you have one. You could also face additional charges for violating the conditions of your bond.
Consult an Experienced DWI/DUI Attorney in Austin, Texas
If you have been charged with a DWI in Texas, it is important to speak to a criminal defense attorney right away. Contact Texas DWI lawyer Jason S. English online or call our office at (512) 454-7548. With his many years of experience, Jason S. English is prepared to fight against the charges and uphold your constitutional rights.
Jason S. English has been recognized as one of the top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Austin.
If you have recently been arrested in Austin for a DWI, you need the right lawyer to help you and protect your future. No one calls us because they have been arrested, they call us because of what the arrest can do to their future. Jason S English Law, PLLC handles misdemeanor and felony DWI cases as a part of its practice - we know how to prepare your case to meet your goals. Call now at 512-454-7548 to get the help you need for you and your future.
