Facing any type of criminal charge in Texas can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially if this is your first experience with the criminal justice system. Like most states, Texas takes criminal offenses like driving while intoxicated (DWI) very seriously. If convicted of a DWI offense, you could face a mandatory license suspension, costly fines, and even jail time. While it may be tempting to attempt to explain your way out of a DWI charge, trying to do so often ends up strengthening the case against you. Now is not the time to leave your future and freedom up to chance—enlisting the support of an experienced DWI defense attorney is the best way to ensure you obtain the most favorable outcome possible, given the specifics of your case. Below is a brief overview of DWI charges in Texas and some important benefits of working with a skilled and trusted criminal defense lawyer to keep your future bright.
Defining DWI Offenses in Texas
According to Title 10, Section 49.04 of the Texas Penal Code, “A person commits an offense [driving while intoxicated] if the person is intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle in a public place.” The legal definition of intoxicated is “not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties by reason of the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance into the body,” or having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher. The majority of DWI offenses are considered Class B misdemeanors, with a minimum confinement of 72 hours and a maximum of 180 days in jail. However, other DWI offenses like driving while intoxicated with a child passenger or intoxication assault are considered felonies and can carry much more severe penalties.
Dealing With a First-Time DWI Charge in Texas
Those facing a first-time DWI charge may wonder whether they really need to work with an attorney to navigate the criminal justice process. While some believe they can represent themselves and explain their way out of the situation, this decision nearly always works against them. Even if you have no previous DWI charges or convictions on your record, you may still end up serving jail or prison time—especially if the offense involved extensive property damage, injuries, or the death of another. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was higher than 0.15 at the time of your arrest, you might face steeper penalties. In many cases, those who refuse to submit to a blood or breath test at time of the arrest also face an automatic license suspension. Due to the wide range of consequences and challenges you may face, you should strongly consider enlisting the services of a knowledgeable Pearland DWI defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Navigating Enhanced DWI Offenses and Penalties
Although all DWI charges are serious, those with previous DWI convictions may find themselves facing a felony charge on a subsequent DWI offense. Felony convictions carry significant and lasting penalties, including prison time, steep fines, and limited housing or employment options after they’ve completed the terms of their sentences. Additionally, having a felony DWI conviction on your criminal record can affect your ability to provide for your family, maintain custody of your children, obtain a loan, vote, find employment in a sector that requires a professional license, or own and use a firearm. It’s crucial to note that a DWI conviction impacts multiple aspects of your life, so it’s essential to work with a trusted criminal defense attorney to protect your freedom and future.
Defending Your Life and Reputation
Those facing DWI charges may feel as if it’s futile to fight these charges, as the results from a blood or breath test may seem indisputable. However, the U.S. Constitution guarantees that defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty, so you have the right to fight for your freedom and future. DWIs can happen to anyone, causing significant damage to our professional reputation and standing within the community. Every DWI case is unique, and your attorney will examine the specific details of your situation to determine the most appropriate course of action. There are numerous strategies to fight your DWI case, such as challenging field sobriety tests, questioning the validity or accuracy of breath or blood test results, identifying constitutional rights violations, challenging witness testimony, or using police reports to challenge the circumstances or procedures during your arrest. Before you lose all hope, contact an experienced Texas DWI defense attorney to learn more about your available legal options.
Contact a Trusted Brazoria County DWI Defense Lawyer Today
Facing a criminal charge can feel isolating and overwhelming. However, you must recognize that you are never alone during this process. Working with a dedicated Pearland area DWI defense lawyer is the best way to ensure your rights and freedoms remain protected at every turn. Your attorney will answer your questions, address your concerns, and support you at every step of the criminal justice process. It’s time to keep your future as bright as possible, so reach out to a trusted criminal defense lawyer right away to get started.
If you are facing DWI charges in Pearland or Brazoria County, call the Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC, today at (832) 230-0075 to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated attorney.
