DWI Attorneys in Dallas & San Antonio, Texas

Driving under the influence (DUI), referred to as driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, is a serious offense with severe legal consequences. If you've been charged with a DWI in Texas, it's essential to work with a criminal defense attorney who understands Texas DWI laws and can provide strong legal representation.

At Texas Defenders, we are dedicated to giving you the support and advocacy you need for your DWI defense. Whether it's your first offense or a repeat charge, the penalties for a DWI can be harsh with long-term impacts on your record, including hefty fines, potential jail time, and even a loss of driving privileges.

With offices in Dallas and San Antonio, Texas, our experienced attorneys have in-depth knowledge of Texas DWI laws and proven defense strategies that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. We serve clients throughout the Dallas Fort Worth area and San Antonio, offering personalized guidance and aggressive representation to protect your rights.

What Is a DWI?

In Texas, a DWI is a criminal offense that occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Texas is 0.08%, and drivers who exceed this limit can be charged with a DWI.

It's important to note that you don't have to be "drunk" to be charged with a DWI. Any level of alcohol or drugs in your system while operating a vehicle can result in a charge. You can be arrested for DWI if an officer believes you are impaired due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both—even if your BAC is below the legal limit.

Additionally, individuals under the age of 21 can face charges for driving after consuming any amount of alcohol, and higher penalties can apply if your BAC level is over 0.15% or if you have multiple previous DWI offenses.

Texas Implied Consent Law

Texas has specific laws aimed at reducing impaired driving and ensuring road safety. Under Texas' Implied Consent Law, any driver operating a vehicle in the state automatically agrees to submit to chemical testing if stopped by law enforcement to determine the presence of alcohol or controlled substances in their system.

Refusing to take such a test when requested by law enforcement can result in immediate administrative penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license.

Potential Consequences of DWI in Texas

If a DWI charge results in a conviction, you may face considerable strict penalties under Texas law. However, the severity of the penalties can vary based on certain factors such as your BAC level and whether this was your first, second, or third or more conviction in a specified period.

Penalties for a First DWI Offense

In Texas, a first DWI offense is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor. However, if your BAC was 0.15% or higher, a first DWI offense is considered a Class A misdemeanor. The penalties for a first DWI offense typically include:

• Fines and court costs: Up to $2,000

• Driver's license suspension: 90 days to 1 year

• Jail time: 3 to 180 days

• Community service: 24 to 100 hours

• Probation: May be ordered by the court

• Ignition interlock device: May be required at the judge’s discretion

• Additional consequences: Alcohol education classes, increased insurance premiums, and a permanent criminal record.

Penalties for a Second DWI Offense

If you are convicted of a second DWI offense in Texas, you may face more severe penalties such as longer jail time and higher fines. The penalties for repeat DWI offenses typically include:

• Fines and court costs: Up to $4,000

• Driver's license suspension: 180 days to 2 years

• Jail time: 30 days to 1 year

• Community service: 80 to 200 hours

• Probation: Likely required with stricter conditions

• Ignition interlock device: Mandatory

• Additional consequences: Higher insurance rates, potential issues with professional licenses, and lasting effects on employment opportunities.

Penalties for a Third or More DWI Offense

If you have had three or more previous DWI convictions within the past five years, you may be charged with a felony rather than a misdemeanor. This means even harsher penalties, including:

• Fines and court costs: Up to $10,000

• Driver's license suspension: 180 days to 2 years

• Jail time: 2 to 10 years in prison

• Community service: Up to 600 hours

• Probation: Likely required with more stringent terms

• Ignition interlock device: Mandatory for two years after release from prison

• Additional consequences: Felony record, loss of voting rights, restrictions on gun ownership, and difficulty finding employment.

How Can a DWI Defense Attorney Help?

A skilled DWI defense attorney can make a considerable difference in the outcome of your case. At Texas Defenders, we understand that every DWI case is unique and requires a personalized approach to achieve the best possible outcome. Some ways our experienced attorneys can help with your DWI defense include:

• Explaining your rights: We will make sure you understand your legal rights and any potential consequences of a conviction.

• Examining evidence: Our attorneys will thoroughly review all evidence in your case, including police reports, breathalyzer results, and witness statements.

• Building a strong defense: We will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to the specific factors of your case to minimize or dismiss charges.

• Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, we may be able to negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing options for first-time offenders.

• Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, our attorneys will provide aggressive representation and fight for your rights in the courtroom.