Being charged with a crime in Jourdanton, Texas can be a frightening and confusing experience. The system can be complex and difficult to navigate, and the consequences of a criminal conviction can be severe, ranging from fines and probation to serious jail time and a permanent criminal record. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the different agencies and departments involved in the criminal justice process, as well as the resources available to help you mount an effective defense.
As a board-certified criminal defense attorney with years of experience as the Chief Prosecutor of Atascosa County, I have seen firsthand the challenges that individuals facing criminal charges in Jourdanton can encounter. In this blog post, I will provide a complete guide to the primary law enforcement agencies, jail location, courts of jurisdiction, and probation departments in Jourdanton, Texas. By understanding the roles and responsibilities of each of these entities, you can better prepare for your case and work towards a successful resolution.
Primary Law Enforcement Agencies
The primary law enforcement agency in Jourdanton, Texas is the Jourdanton Police Department. The department is responsible for maintaining public safety, responding to emergency calls, and enforcing the law within the city limits of Jourdanton. The Jourdanton Police Department is staffed by dedicated and experienced officers.
Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office
In addition to the Jourdanton Police Department, Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office also plays a vital role in law enforcement in Jourdanton. The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for enforcing the law in unincorporated areas of the county, as well as providing support to other law enforcement agencies within the county. The Sheriff’s Office has a team of experienced deputies who work diligently to investigate crimes and keep the community safe.
Texas Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol and Texas Rangers
The Texas Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol and Texas Rangers are also involved in law enforcement in Jourdanton. The Highway Patrol is responsible for patrolling Texas highways, enforcing traffic laws, and investigating accidents. The Texas Rangers are an elite investigative agency within the Texas Department of Public Safety and are often called upon to investigate high-profile or complex cases. They have jurisdiction statewide and are responsible for conducting criminal investigations at the request of other law enforcement agencies, including the Jourdanton Police Department and Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office.
Location:
1108 Campbell Avenue
Jourdanton, TX 78026
Phone: 830-769-3434
If you are arrested in Jourdanton, Texas, you will most likely be taken to the Atascosa County Jail, which is responsible for housing both pre-trial and sentenced inmates. The Atascosa County Jail has one of the largest capacities in the entire region and is staffed by experienced corrections officers who are committed to maintaining the safety and security of the facility.
If you or a loved one is being held at the Atascosa County Jail, it’s important to understand the process for posting bail. Bail is a payment made to the court that allows a defendant to be released from jail before their trial. In most cases, bail is set by a judge and can be paid in cash, by check or money order, or through a bail bondsman. If you choose to use a bail bondsman, they will typically charge a fee of 10-15% of the total bail amount.
If you are trying to get to the Atascosa County Jail from San Antonio, you can take I-37 South towards Corpus Christi. Take the Jourdanton/Christine exit (Exit 104) and turn onto TX-97 East towards Jourdanton. After about 2 miles, turn right onto TX-16 South, then left onto Campbell Ave. The Atascosa County Jail will be on your left.
The drive from San Antonio to Jourdanton is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. If you or a loved one is being held at the Atascosa County Jail and you are traveling from San Antonio, it’s important to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to the jail for visitation or other purposes.
Visitation at the Jail is available during the following hours:
Males – Thursdays and Sundays: 8:00a-11:00a; 12:00p-4:00p; and 5:00p-7:00p
Females – Tuesdays and Saturdays: 8:00a-11:00a; 12:00p-4:00p; and 5:00p-7:00p.
Visitors are required to show a valid photo ID and must comply with the jail’s dress code and other visitation rules.
Prosecuting Agencies
The prosecuting agencies in Atascosa County are responsible for representing the state in criminal cases and ensuring that justice is served. In Atascosa County, there are two primary prosecuting agencies: the 81st District Attorney’s Office and the County Attorney’s Office.
81st District Attorney’s Office
1105 A St.
Floresville, TX 78114
(830) 393-2200
The 81st District Attorney’s Office is responsible for all felony prosecutions in Atascosa County. The District Attorney and their team of prosecutors work closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute serious crimes, including homicide, drug offenses, and white-collar crimes. Additionally, the 81st District Attorney’s Office is responsible for public integrity investigations, which involve allegations of corruption or misconduct by public officials. The office is committed to upholding the law and ensuring that those who violate it are held accountable.
County Attorney’s Office
1405 Campbell Ave
Suite 103
Jourdanton, TX 78026
830-769-3573
The County Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting misdemeanors in Atascosa County. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses than felonies, but they can still carry significant penalties, including fines and jail time. The County Attorney and their team of prosecutors handle a wide range of misdemeanor cases, including traffic offenses, theft, and assault. In addition to prosecuting misdemeanors, the County Attorney’s Office also provides legal advice and representation to the county government and its officials.
Courts of Jurisdiction
In Jourdanton, the courts that handle criminal cases are divided into various categories based on the severity of the crime, with the 81st and 218th District Courts handling felonies, the County Court at Law handling class A and B misdemeanors, and the Jourdanton Municipal Court handling class C misdemeanors.
81st and 218th District Courts
1405 Campbell Avenue
Jourdanton, Texas 78026
Phone: 830-769-3750
Fax: 830-769-2841
The 81st and 218th District Courts are both located in Atascosa County, Texas, and have jurisdiction over felony cases. A felony is a serious crime that is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death. Some examples of felonies include murder, rape, robbery, and burglary.
County Court at Law
1405 Campbell Ave.
Jourdanton, Texas 78026
Phone: 830-769-4232
The County Court at Law has jurisdiction over class A and B misdemeanors. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes than felonies and are typically punishable by imprisonment for up to one year or by a fine. Class A misdemeanors include offenses such as assault causing bodily injury, driving while intoxicated, and theft of property valued between $750 and $2,500. Class B misdemeanors include offenses such as driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content between 0.08% and 0.15%, criminal trespass, and possession of marijuana in an amount less than two ounces.
Jourdanton Municipal Court
1604 SH 97 East, Suite B
Jourdanton, TX 78026
Phone (830) 769 – 2124
The Jourdanton Municipal Court has jurisdiction over class C misdemeanors, which are the least serious criminal offenses. Class C misdemeanors include offenses such as traffic violations, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. The Jourdanton Municipal Court is located at 1604 State Highway 97 East, Jourdanton, TX 78026, and can be reached at (830) 769-3585.
Adult Probation Department
1405 Campbell Ave
Suite 102(North Entrance)
Jourdanton, TX 78026
Phone: 830-769-3724
The 81st and 218th Adult Probation Department is the agency in Jourdanton, Texas responsible for monitoring adults who have been placed on probation as part of their sentence for misdemeanor or felony offenses. The department’s main role is to ensure that these individuals comply with the conditions of their probation and to help them successfully complete their probation period.
When an adult is placed on probation, they are required to meet certain conditions as part of their sentence. These conditions may include regularly reporting to their probation officer, attending counseling or treatment sessions, submitting to drug or alcohol tests, and refraining from criminal activity. The probation officer assigned to the case is responsible for ensuring that the probationer complies with all the conditions set by the court.
The Adult Probation Department uses various methods to monitor probationers, such as home visits, drug and alcohol testing, and electronic monitoring. Home visits are used to ensure that the probationer is living at the address they provided and to assess their living conditions. Drug and alcohol testing is used to detect substance abuse and ensure that the probationer is complying with any treatment requirements. Electronic monitoring, such as ankle bracelets, is used to track the probationer’s movements and ensure that they are staying within the boundaries set by the court.
The probation officer’s role is to not only monitor the probationer’s compliance but also to provide guidance and support to help them successfully complete their probation period. This may involve connecting them with community resources, such as job training or housing assistance, and working with them to develop a plan for addressing any underlying issues that may have contributed to their criminal behavior.
Jourdanton Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton
If you have been charged with a crime in Atascosa County, it is essential to have an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to represent you. Brad Thornton is the only board-certified criminal defense attorney with an office in Atascosa County, making him an excellent choice for anyone facing criminal charges in the area. Additionally, his past role as the Chief Prosecutor for Atascosa County has given him valuable insight into the criminal justice system, which can be invaluable in building a strong defense for his clients.
As a criminal defense attorney, Brad Thornton is committed to providing his clients with the highest level of legal representation. He understands the
stress and uncertainty that come with being charged with a crime and will work tirelessly to defend his clients’ rights and interests. Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, Brad Thornton has the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
If you need the services of a board-certified criminal defense attorney in Atascosa County, contact Brad Thornton today at (210) 439-5627 to schedule a consultation. With his experience and expertise, he can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights and freedom.