When you or a loved one faces arrest in Dallas County, understanding what comes next can reduce fear and help you make informed decisions. The arrest process involves several critical stages, from booking through arraignment, each with specific timelines and legal protections. Knowing what happens after an arrest in Dallas County empowers you to protect your rights and take action quickly.
My Dallas Criminal Lawyer guides clients through every step of this process, ensuring you understand your options and have experienced legal representation when it matters most. Visit our homepage to learn more about our criminal defense services.
Why Choose My Dallas Criminal Lawyer for Your Dallas County Defense
My Dallas Criminal Lawyer has extensive experience navigating Dallas County’s criminal justice system. Our team understands local court procedures, knows the judges and prosecutors, and fights to protect your rights from the moment of arrest. When you call 214-949-4117, you reach attorneys who have handled hundreds of Dallas County cases and know how to challenge charges effectively at every stage. Our results page showcases successful case outcomes for clients facing serious charges. Learn more about our criminal defense attorneys and their experience defending Dallas County residents.
Step 1 – Arrest and Booking (First 2-4 Hours)
What Happens During Booking
After arrest, police transport you to the Dallas County Jail, located at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center in downtown Dallas. Booking is the administrative process that follows arrest and typically takes 2-4 hours. During booking, jail staff will fingerprint you, take a photograph (mug shot), and conduct a background check to review your criminal history. They will also inventory your personal property, conduct a medical screening, and ask intake questions about your health, medications, and emergency contacts. This process is governed by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, which protects your rights during custody.
This is not the time to answer questions about your case. You have the right to remain silent and should exercise it. Anything you say during booking can be used against you later. Request an attorney immediately and do not discuss the charges or circumstances of your arrest with anyone except your lawyer. Understanding your rights during arrest is critical to protecting your case. If you’re facing charges related to violent crimes, drug offenses, or other serious matters, having immediate legal counsel is essential.
Key items taken during booking include: wallet, phone, keys, jewelry, and any other personal belongings that will be stored and returned upon release. Understanding what to expect during booking procedures helps you prepare mentally for this critical stage.
Step 2 – Magistrate Warning & Bail Setting (Within 48 Hours)
Understanding Your Rights at Initial Appearance
Under Texas criminal law (Art. 15.17), you must be brought before a magistrate without unnecessary delay, usually within 24 to 48 hours, to be informed of your rights and have bail set. If you remain in jail because the District Attorney has not formally filed charges, you may be eligible for release after 15, 30, or 90 days (depending on the charge level) under Article 17.151. For more information on how this applies to specific charges, see our guide to violent crime defense and drug crime charges.
At your initial appearance, a judge will inform you of the charges against you, explain your rights, and determine whether you should be released on bail. You have the right to an attorney, the right to remain silent, and the right to know what you are accused of. If you cannot afford an attorney, you can request a court-appointed lawyer at this hearing. The State Bar of Texas provides resources on your rights during this critical stage.
Critical questions to ask at initial appearance include: What are the specific charges? What is the evidence against me? Can I be released without bail? What are my bail conditions? If you’re facing domestic violence charges, sex crime allegations, or other serious offenses, these questions become even more important.
Step 3 – Bail and Bond Hearing (Usually Within 48-72 Hours)
How Bail Is Set in Dallas County
The bail hearing determines whether you are released before trial and under what conditions. A judge considers several factors when setting bail: your criminal history, ties to the community, employment status, family connections, and whether you pose a flight risk. The severity of the charges also matters; more serious charges typically result in higher bail amounts. Understanding bail procedures can help you prepare for this hearing.
You have several options for release: release on your own recognizance (ROR), where you promise to return to court without paying money; cash bail, where you pay the full amount to the court; or a bail bond, where you pay a bail bondsman a percentage (typically 10-15%) of the bail amount, and the bondsman guarantees your appearance. Each option has different implications for your case and financial situation.
Factors judges consider when setting bail include: prior criminal convictions, history of failing to appear in court, ties to Dallas County, employment and income, family responsibilities, and the nature and severity of the charges. If you face charges related to domestic violence, weapons offenses, or other serious offenses, bail may be set higher. The Dallas County District Courts follow specific bail guidelines for different offense categories.
Getting Released From Jail
Once bail is set, you can be released if you or your family can pay it or arrange a bail bond. If released on bail or bond, you will receive conditions of release—rules you must follow to stay out of jail. Common conditions include: not contacting alleged victims or witnesses, maintaining employment, attending all court dates, not leaving Dallas County without permission, and submitting to drug testing if applicable. Violating these conditions can result in serious consequences.
If you cannot make bail, you remain in custody until trial. Your attorney can request a bail reduction hearing if circumstances change or if the bail amount is unreasonably high. In some cases, charges may be eligible for expungement or nondisclosure after resolution. If you’re facing probation revocation issues, bail conditions become even more critical.
Step 4 – Arraignment and Plea Entry (Within 10-14 Days)
Arraignment is your first appearance in district court (for felonies) or municipal court (for misdemeanors). At arraignment, the charges are formally read, and you enter a plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is a critical moment in your case. Do not enter any plea without consulting your attorney first. The Texas Rules of Criminal Procedure govern this process and protect your rights.
At arraignment, the court also sets discovery deadlines, schedules pretrial conferences, and may discuss plea offers. Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the charges, or request continuances. The judge will also confirm your bail conditions and may modify them if necessary. For detailed information on the complete criminal defense timeline and process, consult with our experienced team. If you’re facing theft charges, juvenile charges, or other matters, understanding arraignment procedures is essential.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After an Arrest
Several actions can seriously harm your case. Actions that can harm your case include: talking to police, posting on social media, missing court dates, violating bail conditions, and discussing your case with anyone except your attorney.
Speaking to police without an attorney present gives them statements they can use against you—even if you think you are innocent. Posting about your arrest on social media creates evidence prosecutors can use and may violate bail conditions. Missing court dates results in additional charges and a warrant for your arrest. Violating bail conditions—such as contacting a witness or leaving the county—can result in your bail being revoked and you being returned to jail.
If you face probation revocation charges, tampering with evidence allegations, or other complications, these mistakes become even more critical. The American Bar Association provides guidance on protecting your rights after arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can police hold me without charges in Dallas County?
Police can hold you for up to 72 hours without filing charges. After 72 hours, you must be released unless the district attorney has filed charges. This 72-hour window is a critical protection under Texas law and applies regardless of the severity of the alleged offense. For more information, consult the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 38.23. If you’re facing DWI charges or other specific offenses, this timeline may have additional nuances.
Can I get out of jail without posting bail?
Yes. Release on your own recognizance (ROR) means the judge releases you based on your promise to return to court. ROR is more likely if you have strong ties to Dallas County, stable employment, no criminal history, and are not accused of a violent crime. Your attorney can argue for ROR at the bail hearing. Understanding bail procedures helps you prepare for this discussion.
What should I do immediately after arrest?
Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions about your case. Request an attorney. Contact a family member or bail bondsman. Do not sign anything except documents required by jail staff. Do not discuss your case with other inmates or anyone except your lawyer. If you’re facing sex crime charges, weapons charges, or other serious matters, these steps are even more critical.
How much does bail cost in Dallas County?
Bail amounts vary based on the charge. Dallas County uses a bail schedule that sets standard amounts for common offenses, but judges can increase or decrease bail based on individual circumstances. Felony charges typically result in higher bail than misdemeanors. Your attorney can request a bail reduction if the amount is excessive. For specific information about bail for particular charges, see our practice areas. The Dallas County Courts maintain bail schedules for reference.
What happens if I miss my court date?
Missing a court date is a serious violation. The judge will issue a warrant for your arrest, and you will face additional criminal charges for failure to appear. If you are out on bail, your bail will be forfeited, and you will be arrested and returned to jail. Always mark court dates on your calendar and confirm them with your attorney. If you’re facing probation revocation or other complications, missing court becomes even more serious.
Take Action – Protect Your Rights Today
The hours and days following arrest are critical. Every decision you make—from whether you speak to police to whether you hire an attorney—affects your case. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer provides immediate legal assistance to clients arrested in Dallas County. We understand the local court system, know how to challenge charges, and fight for your rights at every stage. Our testimonials page shows how we’ve helped clients navigate similar situations and get the results they need.
Do not wait, contact us. Call 214-949-4117 today for a free consultation. The sooner you have legal representation, the sooner we can begin protecting your future. Visit our contact page or book a consultation to get started immediately.
