Facing a DWI charge in Fort Bend County can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure what will happen at your first court appearance. For many people, the fear of the unknown causes more stress than the court date itself.
AtSegura Kiatta Criminal Defense, attorney Anthony Segura has been handling DWI cases in Fort Bend County for over 30 years. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect at your first DWI court date, how to prepare, and why this initial appearance is usually far less intimidating than most people imagine.
Is the First DWI Court Date Something to Worry About?
The short answer: usually, no.
In approximately 95% of DWI cases, the first court date is purely procedural. That means there is typically no testimony, no arguments, and little to no time spent in front of a judge.
In many cases, you may not even step inside the courtroom.
The purpose of this first setting is primarily administrative—to:
Get your case officially entered into the court system
Confirm that you are represented by an attorney
Schedule the next court date
It is not a trial, and it is not a negotiation.
When Is Your First Court Date Scheduled?
Your first court appearance depends on whether your DWI charge is a misdemeanor or a felony:
Misdemeanor DWI cases:
Friday mornings at 8:30 a.m.
Felony DWI cases:
Monday afternoons at 1:00 p.m.
Because these settings are scheduled during less busy court hours, the courthouse is often relatively quiet, and the atmosphere is generally calm and informal.
What Will You Actually Need to Do?
If you are represented by an experienced DWI attorney, your role is very simple:
Show up on time
Be respectful
Follow your bond conditions
That’s it.
There’s no need to rehearse anything. There’s no need to arrive an hour early. In most cases, your attorney will handle all communication with the court on your behalf.
At Segura Kiatta, we believe your focus should be on staying compliant and minimizing stress—while we handle the legal process.
What Happens During the First DWI Court Setting?
In the vast majority of cases:
You will not be asked any questions
The judge will not hear evidence
The case may not yet be fully processed
Often, the court is still waiting on:
Police reports
Breath or blood test results
Filing documentation
Once those items are pending, the court will typically reset the case for another date—usually about 30 days later.
Situations Where the Court May Take Action
While most first court dates are uneventful, there are a few situations where something meaningful can happen:
Bond Condition ViolationsIf you have violated your bond conditions—such as drinking alcohol, using drugs, or picking up new charges—the court may:
Modify your bond conditions
Increase restrictions
Or, in serious cases, consider revoking your bond
High Alcohol Concentration ResultsIf your breath or blood test shows an alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher, the court may consider adding an ignition interlock device as a condition of bond or probation.
These situations are the exception—not the rule.
How to Make Your First Court Date Quick and Stress-Free
The best way to ensure a smooth first appearance is to:
Follow all bond conditions
Avoid alcohol and drugs
Stay out of trouble
Work with an experienced DWI defense attorney
If you’ve been compliant, most first court dates last 15 minutes or less.
Many clients leave thinking: “Why was I even nervous about that?”
You Don’t Have to Navigate a DWI Alone
If you’re facing a DWI charge in Fort Bend County, knowing what to expect can significantly reduce anxiety and help you feel more in control.
Attorney Anthony Segura has spent over three decades helping people through this exact process—and guiding them toward the best possible outcome.
Managing Attorney of Segura & Kiatta, Criminal Defense
Anthony R. Segura is the Managing Attorney of Segura & Kiatta LLP in Sugar Land, Texas. He focuses his practice on criminal defense and DWI defense. Licensed by the State Bar of Texas since 1994, Mr. Segura brings decades of courtroom experience to the firm and has led Segura & Kiatta LLP since 2006. He earned his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law and represents clients across the Sugar Land area with practical, straightforward legal guidance.
