The Arrest Process in San Antonio
An arrest usually occurs when:
- A police officer witnesses a crime
- A warrant has been issued
- Probable cause exists (e.g., suspicion of DWI or assault)
You may be:
- Handcuffed and searched
- Read your Miranda rights
- Taken to the Bexar County Jail for booking
🔎 See also: What Type of Lawyer Do I Need?
👉 Criminal Defense Attorneys in San Antonio
Booking and Processing at Bexar County Jail
After arrest, you’ll be taken to:
📍 Bexar County Adult Detention Center
200 N. Comal St., San Antonio, TX
You’ll go through:
- Fingerprinting and mugshots
- Health screening
- Entry into the county’s inmate system
You’ll remain in custody until:
- You post bond
- A magistrate releases you
- You’re transferred for arraignment
Families can use the inmate locator on the Bexar County Sheriff’s website to find someone in custody.
Your Right to an Attorney
Under the 6th Amendment, you have the right to:
- Remain silent
- Ask for an attorney before answering questions
🛑 Do not talk to police without legal representation. Even casual statements can be used against you.
If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may qualify for a court-appointed public defender.
However, if possible, it’s recommended to contact a private Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Antonio as soon as possible. They can act quickly and often provide more personalized defense strategies.
Bail, Bond, and Pre-Trial Release
Once booked, you’ll typically go before a magistrate judge within 48 hours.
The judge may:
- Set a bond amount
- Deny bail (in severe cases)
- Offer a personal recognizance (PR) bond
You can pay:
- Cash bond
- Surety bond via a bail bondsman
- PR bond, if approved, which doesn’t require payment
An experienced lawyer can often help you:
- Get your bond reduced
- Qualify for a PR bond
- Speed up release time
Your First Court Appearance (Arraignment)
The arraignment is your first formal court appearance. You’ll hear the charges against you and enter a plea.
Typical options:
- Guilty
- Not guilty
- No contest
You will also receive your next court date for hearings, motions, or trial.
👉 Learn more: Bexar County Courthouse Guide
What Happens After That?
Depending on your charges and plea, the legal process can include:
- Pre-trial hearings
- Plea negotiations
- Trial
- Sentencing (if convicted)
Criminal cases in Texas can move slowly — sometimes taking months or even a year to resolve. A lawyer helps manage this timeline and build your defense.
What If You’re Falsely Accused or Unlawfully Arrested?
Mistakes happen. If you believe you were:
- Arrested without cause
- Mistreated by law enforcement
- Wrongfully charged
Then you may have legal options beyond just defending the charge — including filing civil rights complaints or suppression motions. A criminal defense attorney can help you take the right next steps.
Legal Help in San Antonio: Your Options
If you or a loved one has been arrested, don’t wait. Immediate legal representation can help:
- Protect your rights
- Speed up release
- Prevent serious long-term consequences
📍 Use our Lawyer Directory to find a criminal defense attorney
📌 Read more: What Happens When You’re Arrested in Bexar County
💸 Need help affording legal services? See Legal Aid & Free Clinics
FAQs About Getting Arrested in San Antonio
Can I bail someone out immediately after arrest?
You usually have to wait until the judge sets bond — often within 24–48 hours.
Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?
Yes. A lawyer may negotiate a better deal or help you avoid unnecessary penalties.
What happens if I miss a court date?
A warrant may be issued for your arrest. Contact an attorney immediately.
Final Word
An arrest doesn’t define your future — but how you respond to it can. Knowing your rights, understanding the process, and hiring the right legal help are your best tools for navigating the system.