1. What should I expect during a DUI/DWI arrest in Fort Worth?
A DUI or DWI arrest in Fort Worth usually begins with a traffic stop by Fort Worth Police, Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, or Texas DPS. Officers may conduct field sobriety tests, request a breath or blood sample, and place you under arrest if impairment is suspected. You will then be transported for booking and processing. Everything said or done during the stop may be used as evidence, making it critical to contact a DUI attorney immediately.
2. How can I find out where someone is being held after a DUI arrest in Fort Worth?
Most Fort Worth DUI arrests result in booking at:
- Tarrant County Corrections Center (Belknap Street Jail)
- Occasionally, Fort Worth City Jail is used for municipal cases
Inmate information can be found through Tarrant County’s online inmate search. A DUI lawyer can confirm custody, help arrange bond, and begin working on your defense right away.
3. What courts handle DUI/DWI cases in Fort Worth?
Depending on the charge, cases may be handled in:
- Tarrant County Criminal Courts (County Courts at Law) for misdemeanor DWIs
- Tarrant County District Courts for felony DWIs (repeat offenses, intoxication assault, intoxication manslaughter)
- Fort Worth Municipal Court for related citations or Class C offenses
Missing a court date can result in a warrant. An attorney ensures deadlines are met and your case proceeds correctly.
4. How does the administrative license suspension (ALR) process work after a Fort Worth DWI arrest?
After a DWI arrest, the Texas DPS will attempt to suspend your driver’s license automatically unless you request an ALR hearing within 15 days.
A DUI attorney can:
- Request the ALR hearing on your behalf
- Challenge the legality of the stop and arrest
- Contest breath or blood test procedures
- Fight to preserve your driving privileges
- Use ALR evidence to strengthen your criminal defense
Failing to request the hearing almost always results in a license suspension.
5. What transportation options are available if my license is suspended in Fort Worth?
Even with a suspension, you may have options such as:
- Occupational Driver’s License (ODL)
- Restricted driving with an ignition interlock
- Trinity Metro buses and TEXRail
- Paratransit services for eligible individuals
- Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft)
- Assistance from family or employers
An attorney can help you obtain an occupational license quickly so you can continue working and meeting obligations.
6. What alcohol education or treatment programs might Fort Worth courts require?
Fort Worth courts often require:
- DWI Education Program (first offenses)
- DWI Intervention Program (repeat offenses)
- Victim Impact Panel (MADD)
- Substance use evaluations
- Outpatient or inpatient treatment programs
- Ignition interlock compliance
Completing programs early may help reduce penalties or improve negotiations.
7. Can enrolling in treatment early help my DUI/DWI case in Fort Worth?
Yes. Early participation can:
- Demonstrate responsibility to the court
- Strengthen negotiations with prosecutors
- Improve eligibility for diversion or reduced sentencing
- Support requests for alternative resolutions
- Reduce the risk of future alcohol-related offenses
Your lawyer can guide you to court-approved Fort Worth programs.
8. What community support resources are available in Fort Worth for people facing DUI charges?
Fort Worth offers supportive resources such as:
- Local AA and recovery groups
- SMART Recovery programs
- Mental health counseling centers
- Tarrant County community assistance programs
- Employment and financial-support resources
- Substance abuse and behavioral health services
These resources help individuals stay stable while navigating the legal process.
9. How can the Law Office of Bryan Fagan help with a DUI/DWI charge in Fort Worth?
Our Fort Worth DUI Defense Team provides:
- Immediate protection of your driver’s license
- Representation at ALR hearings
- Detailed review of police reports, dashcam, and bodycam footage
- Challenges to breath and blood test accuracy
- Negotiation for dismissal, reduction, or alternative sentencing
- Guidance through court-ordered education and treatment
- Help secure occupational licenses
We fight aggressively to protect your rights, your record, and your future.
10. What should I do immediately after a DUI/DWI arrest in Fort Worth?
You should:
- Contact a DUI attorney immediately
- Request your ALR hearing within 15 days
- Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer
- Collect all arrest, bond, and citation paperwork
- Follow all court or bond conditions
- Begin education or treatment programs if advised
Quick action can make a major difference in your case outcome.