What Happens After an Arrest in Georgetown, TX?

Finding out that a loved one has been arrested in Georgetown can be a frightening and confusing experience. Navigating the Williamson County legal system requires quick action and reliable information to ensure a fast release. This guide breaks down exactly what happens after an arrest and how Lipstick Bail Bonds can help you bring your family member home today.

The Immediate Custody Phase: The Williamson County Jail

When someone is arrested in Georgetown, they are typically transported to the Williamson County Jail, located at 306 W. 4th Street. This is the central intake point for all law enforcement agencies in the county, including the Georgetown Police Department and the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

Transport and Booking

Upon arrival, the “booking” process begins. Jail staff will take the individual’s photograph (mugshot) and fingerprints. They will also conduct a background check for any outstanding warrants and inventory all personal property. This process can take several hours depending on how busy the facility is.

The 5-Minute Inmate Search

One of the most stressful parts of an arrest is not knowing where your loved one is or what their charges are. Lipstick Bail Bonds provides a rapid locator service that can find an inmate’s status in just five minutes. Instead of calling multiple departments, you can rely on our team to get the booking number and charge details immediately.

The “Cite and Release” Alternative

In some cases involving non-violent Class A or B misdemeanors, an officer may choose “Cite and Release.” This means the individual is given a summons to appear in court later rather than being taken to jail. However, if they are transported to 4th Street, they must go through the formal magistration process before they can be released.

The Magistrate Hearing: The 48-Hour Window

Under Texas law, every person arrested must be taken before a judge—known as a magistrate—within 48 hours. In Williamson County, this usually happens much faster, often within 12 to 24 hours.

Article 15.17 Rights

During the hearing, the judge reads the formal charges and informs the defendant of their constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. The judge then sets the bail amount.

Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs)

In cases involving domestic violence or certain assault charges, the magistrate may issue an Emergency Protective Order (EPO). This is a “stay-away” order that is effective immediately upon release. Violating an EPO can lead to a new arrest and a “No Bond” status. It is crucial to understand these conditions before leaving the jail.

Securing Release: Bonding Out in Williamson County

Once bail is set, you have several options for securing a release. Understanding the differences is key to saving money and time.

Cash Bonds vs. Surety Bonds

A Cash Bond requires you to pay the full amount of the bail to the court in cash. While this is refunded at the end of the case (minus court fees), most families cannot afford to tie up thousands of dollars for months or years.

A Surety Bond is provided by a professional bondsman like Lipstick Bail Bonds. You pay a small percentage of the total bail, and the bondsman guarantees the full amount to the court.

Secure Release with Lipstick Bail Bonds

We specialize in making the bail process as painless as possible. Our unique advantages include:

  • Mobile Bail Bond Service: We are a mobile service—we come to you. Whether you are at home, work, or the jail lobby, we handle the paperwork wherever it is most convenient for you.
  • 1%, 2%, and 3% Bonds: We offer some of the most competitive rates in Texas. On approved credit (OAC), you may qualify for a bond as low as 1% of the total bail amount.
  • Interest-Free Financing: We believe financial status shouldn’t dictate freedom. We offer flexible, interest-free payment plans to ensure you can afford the help you need without added stress.

Personal Recognizance (PR) Bonds & The 3% Fee

A PR Bond allows a defendant to be released based on their promise to return to court. However, in Williamson County, a PR Bond is not “free.” There is a mandatory 3% administrative fee (or $20, whichever is greater) that must be paid to the county. Additionally, PR bonds often come with much stricter monitoring requirements than surety bonds.

The Early Stages of Your Criminal Case

Release from jail is only the beginning. The “Georgetown Legal Process” then moves into the court system.

Arraignment

The first formal court appearance is the Arraignment. This is where the defendant enters a plea of Guilty, Not Guilty, or No Contest. Most attorneys advise pleading “Not Guilty” at this stage to allow time to review the evidence.

County Attorney vs. District Attorney

In Williamson County, the County Attorney handles misdemeanors (like first-time DWIs or petty theft), while the District Attorney prosecutes felonies (like aggravated assault or drug possession). Knowing which office is handling the case helps your legal team prepare the right defense strategy.

Resolving the Case: Pleas, Trials, and Programs

Williamson County is known for being “tough on crime,” but it also offers several pathways for rehabilitation.

Specialty Courts & Diversion Programs

If the defendant qualifies, they may be eligible for programs that lead to an eventual dismissal of charges:

  • Veterans Treatment Court: For those who served and are struggling with PTSD or substance issues.
  • DWI/Drug Court: A rigorous program focused on recovery rather than incarceration.
  • Pretrial Intervention (PTI): Often available for first-time, non-violent offenders. Completing PTI usually results in the case being dismissed and becoming eligible for expunction.

Life After the Case

Even if a case is dismissed, the record of the arrest still exists. To truly move on, you may need an Expunction (to erase the record) or an Order of Non-Disclosure (to seal the record from public view). Lipstick Bail Bonds can recommend local Georgetown attorneys who specialize in clearing these records so an arrest doesn’t haunt your future employment or housing opportunities.

FAQ: People Also Ask

1. How long does it take to get someone out of the Williamson County Jail? Once the bond is posted by Lipstick Bail Bonds, the release process typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on jail staffing and the number of inmates being processed.

2. Do I get my bail money back? If you pay a cash bond to the court, you get it back minus fees once the case is closed. If you use a bondsman, the fee you pay is for the service of the bond and is non-refundable.

3. What happens if I miss a court date? Missing court results in a “Bond Forfeiture.” A warrant will be issued for your arrest, and your bondsman will be required to bring you in. If you have an emergency, contact Lipstick Bail Bonds and your attorney immediately to resolve the issue before a warrant is issued.

4. Can I leave the state while on bond? Standard bond conditions usually require you to stay in Texas unless you get written permission from the court. Always check your specific paperwork before traveling.

5. What is a “3% Bond”? At Lipstick Bail Bonds, a 3% bond means you pay only 3% of the total bail amount as your fee (OAC). This is significantly lower than the industry standard of 10%, making it the most affordable way to secure freedom.

Contact Lipstick Bail Bonds Today

Don’t let a loved one sit in jail a moment longer than necessary. Lipstick Bail Bonds is your fast, compassionate, and affordable solution in Georgetown, TX. With our mobile service, interest-free financing, and rates as low as 1%, we make the impossible affordable.

Call us 24/7 at (512) 689-1197 or visit us online at lipstickbailbondstexas.com to start the release process now.



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