Author: Danielle Ward

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The Burden of Proof in Sex Crimes: What to Know

The burden of proof in sex crimes cases is an essential factor in how a lawyer builds their defense. When you face a charge, claim, or allegation for a sexual offense in Texas, it’s common to wonder how the evidence works. If you need concise advice, consult a Houston criminal lawyer for guidance on your specific case. 

For now, our firm is here to offer a general overview that shows that standards courts follow in most Texas cases. 

Burden of Proof in Sex Crimes: “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”

In a Texas sex crime case, the standard of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt.” For defendants, this means that the prosecution bears the legal burden of proof. It is on them to establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

When they do so, they have to show that there is no room within the facts for another explanation. The sole resolution must be that the defendant committed the offense. This level of proof must apply to each element of the offense. 

However, “beyond a reasonable doubt” does not equate to absolute proof. Instead, it is as close to absolute certainty as possible. Generally speaking, this is the highest legal standard. 

As such, this is not solely the burden of proof in sex crimes. In fact, it is the standard of proof across criminal cases throughout the country. It’s part of the “due process” clause in the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution. 

Additionally, when the trial begins, it is essential that the jury starts with a presumption of innocence. Then, prosecutors must establish the evidence to show that there is no reasonable doubt of the defendant’s guilt. 

As such, it falls to the prosecutors, not a sex crime defense attorney, to shoulder the burden of proof. 

Elements of Burden of Proof

When it comes to the burden of proof in sex crimes, the courts have established two aspects of the reasonable doubt standard. 

  • Burden of production means that the prosecution produced enough evidence to establish every element of an offense as fact. 
  • Burden of persuasion requires the prosecution to persuade jurors that they applied the standard to every aspect of the offense. 

Do Other Standards of Proof Apply?

In Texas sex crimes trials, the prosecution cannot prove guilt by any other standard of proof. Typically, these standards apply solely to civil cases. For example, the standard of “a preponderance of evidence” still allows room for doubt. Additionally, “clear and convincing evidence” only shows that something is probably or likely. 

Instead, the burden of proof in sex crimes is for the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

While other standards leave room for interpretation, this remains the highest legal standard for proof. Generally, it applies to criminal trials specifically because the stakes are so high. In some cases, a defendant might face up to 99 years when found guilty of a sex crime. 

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Texas Sex Crimes?

In addition to the burden of proof in sex crimes cases, prosecutors who hope to charge someone with a crime have to abide by the Texas statute of limitations for the crimes. These statutes set limits as to how much time may pass before it’s no longer possible to charge someone. 

Generally, this varies depending on the severity of the crime. 

In Texas, some crimes have no limit on how much time passes. For example, there is no statute of limitations on the following charges. 

  • Sexual assault of a child 
  • Indecency with a child 
  • Aggravated sexual assault of a child
  • Continuous sexual abuse of a child
  • Sexual assault of an adult (when there is DNA evidence available)

Then, the statute drops to 20 years for the following crimes. 

  • Burglary with the intent to commit a sex crime
  • Aggravated kidnapping with the intent to commit a sex crime 
  • Sexual performance by a child 

From there, the statute lowers to 10 years for the following crimes. 

  • Sexual assault of an adult (with no DNA evidence) 
  • Aggravated sexual assault of an adult

So, what does this all mean? The prosecution has to prove the defendant committed the crime within the period of the statute of limitations. However, as mentioned, some crimes have no limitations at all. 

Note: It’s important to recognize that “rape” is not a legal term in Texas. Instead, it falls under various forms of “sexual assault.”

A Difficult Standard to Prove

When it comes to rape and sexual assault cases, it is often difficult to prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt. Often, the prosecution cites the definition under the Texas Penal Code as part of the problem. It places an emphasis on the use of coercion, violence, or physical force. 

As such, it’s not enough for a potential victim to say “no.” Instead, the burden of proof requires that they show the refusal was overcome by force. 

Defenses Against Sex Crime Allegations

With the high burden of proof in sex crimes cases, there are several defenses that offer potential against sexual assault charges. 

One option is an “affirmative defense.” In this method, the criminal lawyer proves facts through a preponderance of evidence that shows innocence. Still, the prosecution has to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. However, if the defense lawyer convinces the jury that the facts of the affirmative defense are true, they may find the client not guilty. 

Do You or a Loved One Need Legal Representation?

If you face allegations of sex crimes in the Greater Houston Area, you need an experienced Houston criminal lawyer to protect your rights and your future. 

Contact our criminal defense law firm for a free, confidential consultation. Our legal team is ready to offer guidance and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

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Probation Violation Hearing: What to Do

probation-violation-hearing

A probation violation hearing might sound simple and straightforward. In many cases, a person makes a simple mistake and faces an accusation that they are in violation of their probation. That should be easy to sort out, right?

Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Being on probation is not a simple matter. Moreover, the consequences of a violation are often hefty. 

Below, we take a closer look at probation violation hearings. 

What Is a Probation Violation Hearing?

When the court finds a defendant guilty after a trial or the defendant resolves their case through negotiations, one possible outcome is probation. In many cases, people prefer this over incarceration – for obvious reasons. 

However, probation is rarely easy to follow. First, there are many different types of probation, all of which require you to follow certain terms and conditions. Second, you sign a contract for probation, which means you enter into a legally binding agreement. 

Oftentimes, these conditions are time-consuming and difficult. Examples include the following. 

  • Treatment for addiction or substance abuse
  • Completion of a program (such as anger management
  • Obtaining a GED or high school degree
  • Abstaining from alcohol or drug use
  • Maintaining or attaining employment 

Additionally, you have to report to your probation officer as well as pay an array of court fees. Often, people have a hard time meeting the terms laid out in their agreement. When a person fails to meet these requirements, they risk violating their probation. 

If this happens, their probation officer might seek a probation violation hearing. Through this, they allege that you violated the terms of your probation and seek some form of punishment. 

Potential Accusations

There are many bases for an accusation of probation violation. Some common examples include the following. 

  • Facing charges for another criminal offense while on probation 
  • Failing to meet the conditions of your probation 
  • Failure to complete a court-ordered program
  • Failing to report to the probation officer, pay fees, or appear in court

When a probation officer accuses you of violating the terms of your agreement, they might request a warrant for your arrest. If you are arrested, you are brought before the court. 

Alternatively, you might receive a notice in the mail telling you to present yourself in court. 

Consequences of Violating Probation

When you violate your probation in Texas, the severity of your violation dictates the outcome. In some cases, you simply have to appear in court. If this is the case, your probation officer is likely to request some type of penalty. 

This might add another condition or limitation on your probation contract. For instance, you might perform community service or attend a rehabilitation program. In more severe cases, it might result in a large fine or jail time. 

Even with a first-time violation, your probation officer can file a report to have the court issue a warrant for your arrest. If this happens, you might spend some time in the county jail. Then, they schedule a hearing to review your case. 

What to Expect at Your Hearing

During your probation violation hearing, the prosecution has to prove that a violation occurred by the standard of a “preponderance of evidence.” This means that the evidence shows there’s over 50% likelihood that you violated your parole. 

During the hearing, the judge weighs the type, nature, and severity of the violation. Additionally, they look over any mitigating circumstances and history of prior violations. 

Then, your lawyer has the opportunity to argue against the evidence. Often, a criminal lawyer stresses how minor the violation was or counters with evidence that there was a mistake. Additionally, they fight against the revocation of your probation. 

If the court finds you guilty of violating probation, they then sentence you. This might result in an extension of the probation period, time spent in jail, or an addition of new terms and conditions. 

The worst-case scenario is the revocation of your probation altogether. This results in you serving out the remainder of your original sentence. 

Partner with an Experienced Attorney

When you face a probation violation hearing, you need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your attorney helps you understand your rights and your options. Additionally, they guide you through the process and advocate for you. 

In Texas, there are no juries in these hearings. However, an experienced criminal lawyer knows how to navigate the process, address your needs, and provide expert legal representation in court. 

At The Martinez Law Firm, our legal team has in-depth experience with DWI matters and a range of other criminal cases. When you need an advocate on your side, our team is ready to fight for the best possible outcome in your case. 

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Texas DWI Process: How to Handle DWI Charges

texas-dwi-process

The Texas DWI process is not always a simple as people assume. After an arrest for a DWI (driving while intoxicated), you appear before a judge at an arraignment. Typically, this is your first court date. 

Generally speaking, when this occurs depends on the circumstances of your case. For some, it happens within a day or so of the arrest. In other cases, it happens weeks or months later. 

For most criminal cases, there’s not much for you to do before an arraignment. This is where the Texas DWI process differs. After a DWI arrest, you have to take quick action to contest an administrative suspension of your license. 

This suspension is imposed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. If you fail to contest it, it goes into effect automatically. When you partner with a local DWI lawyer, you have someone to walk you through this process. 

Moreover, you have someone to fight to protect your rights and freedom. 

Below, we cover some basic information about the DWI process in Texas. If you need expert representation, schedule a free consultation as soon as possible. 

What to Do Before Your Arraignment

In Texas, implied consent laws allow the DMV to suspend the license of any driver lawfully arrested for a DWI. Additionally, this applies to drivers who refuse or fail a blood or breath test for their BAC.

Still, you have the power to fight this suspension. However, to do so, you have to request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest. When you request the hearing, it puts the suspension on hold. 

This means the suspension is pending based on the outcome of your hiring. When you fail to request an ALR hearing, the DMV automatically imposes the suspension. Typically, this takes effect about 30 days after your arrest. 

What Happens at Your Arraignment

At your arraignment, the judge informs you of your charges and your rights. However, arraignments are more than a legal formality. If you were sent to jail after your arrest, the judge sets your bail amount or releases you without bail. 

Additionally, the judge will ask what you plan to do about representation. If you do not hire your own DWI lawyer, the judge appoints a public defender to your case. Oftentimes, these public defenders are inexperienced lawyers fresh out of law school. 

Then, the judge asks how you want to plea. Generally, you have three options. 

  1. Guilty
  2. Not guilty 
  3. No contest (nolo contendere)

While some people plead guilty to get the Texas DWI process over with (not the best idea), many enter a plea of not guilty. At this point, a plea of not guilty allows you to keep your options open. 

When you want to protect your future, this is your best option. 

How to Handle a DWI in Texas

After the arraignment, the next stage of the Texas DWI process is to decide how to handle your case. At this stage, the advice of an experienced DWI defense attorney is essential. Often, this boils down to two main options: bargain or fight. 

However, these options aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive. For many cases, criminal lawyers attempt to beat cases through pretrial motions. A common example in the Texas DWI process is a motion to suppress evidence. 

If a motion doesn’t result in your favor, your attorney might also bargain to reduce your charges. Additionally, if the negotiations are unfavorable, your attorney may advise taking the case to trial. 

Ultimately, your DWI attorney’s goal is to achieve the best outcome possible in your specific case. 

Plea Bargaining

Plea bargaining is a process in which your attorney and the prosecution attempt to reach a compromise. Essentially, this amounts to the defendant agreeing to a charge of guilt or no contest in exchange for less severe penalties. 

In some cases, it’s possible to negotiate a guilty plea for a non-DWI charge. For instance, it may result in a reckless driving charge instead. The goal here is to reduce the penalties. 

Typically, weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case provide the defense with a better foundation for bargaining. Conversely, your bargaining power diminishes when the evidence against you is strong. 

How Trials Work

Typically, the prosecution has the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal cases. The Texas DWI process is no different. When the prosecutor cannot adequately prove guilt, the judge or jury should acquit. 

Generally speaking, DWI trials last anywhere from a few days to a week. First, the court must select a jury. Often, this takes a full day. 

Then, both sides present their opening statements. This is when they tell the jury what they believe to be true as well as what evidence they will show. 

Next, the meat of the trial is the presentation of evidence. Typically, the prosecution presents its evidence first, since they hold the burden of proof. For example, they might present test results that show the amount of alcohol that was in the driver’s system. 

Additionally, this stage of the Texas DWI process often involves calling on the arresting officer to testify. Once the prosecution rests, your attorney presents their evidence. However, it’s common for the defense not to present any evidence. 

Instead, they might work with an expert witness to gain a favorable testimony that casts doubt on BAC tests. Following the presentation of evidence, both sides make their closing arguments. 

Then, the jury receives instructions on the applicable law and starts its deliberation. For many DWI cases, deliberations take less than a day. As the jurors reach a verdict, they inform the judge, who announces it to the court. 

Tackle The Texas DWI Process with Expert Representation

Whether you hope to bargain or go to trial, your best bet is to have an attorney on your side. With the right legal representation, you gain guidance throughout the legal process. From the ALR hearing to negotiations to trial, you have an advocate dedicated to your future. 

The Texas DWI process often results in harsh penalties for those without representation. As such it is crucial to find legal representation to handle your DWI case. 

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Open Container Law in Texas

open-container-law-in-texas

The current open container law in Texas was part of a push to make the laws around drinking and driving stricter. Moreover, they had to comply with the Federal Transportation Equity Act to ensure the state received funding. 

For over a decade, there have been no significant changes to the open container law. However, many Texans remain confused about what the law covers. When you receive an open container ticket in Houston, TX, it’s not always easy to navigate the legal system. 

With an experienced criminal defense attorney, you have someone to guide you through it. Schedule a free case evaluation today to learn more. 

What Is an Open Container?

The term “open container” seems simple at first. However, the penal code is not so easy to interpret. The Texas Penal Code, Title 10, § 49.031 covers possession of an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle. 

Per the penal code, a person commits this offense when they knowingly possess an open container in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public highway. This applies whether the vehicle is in transit, stopped, or parked. 

For many Texas, the open container law leaves them with many questions. 

  • Can a passenger have an open container or is that against the law, too? 
  • Does an open container ticket go on your record? 
  • If the open container is in the trunk, is that illegal? 
  • Is it legal to drive with an open container of alcohol anywhere in the car?
  • What are the consequences if I unintentionally violate this law as a driver or passenger?

At first, you might think you understand what qualifies as an open container, public highway, and passenger area. However, many Texas drivers don’t realize that these laws are stricter than many believe. 

For instance, “open container” applies to a bottle, flask, or other container with any level of alcohol in it that is currently open or has been opened. Put simply, a previously opened bottle of whiskey counts under the open container law in Texas. 

The only exclusions are containers that have never been opened or still have an intact factory seal. 

What Counts as the “Passenger Area”?

The “passenger area” of this law is also a point of confusion. Essentially, any area where a container of alcohol is visible to the driver and within reach counts. However, the law specifically excludes open containers in the following areas. 

  • A locked glove compartment 
  • The trunk 
  • Areas behind the back row of seats in cars without trunks

“Public Highway”

Lastly, while the penal code refers to “public highways” specifically, this includes more than interstates and freeways. In reality, it applies to any container on a publicly maintained road. 

Additionally, it includes areas immediately around any public road. So, if you park on a quiet back road, it’s possible to violate this law. 

What Are the Penalties of the Open Container Law in Texas?

On its own, possession of an open container in a vehicle is a Class C misdemeanor. The base penalties include a fine of up to $500. It carries no mandatory jail time. 

So long as you and your passengers violate no other laws, you receive a ticket and pay a fine. However, a violation of the open container law enhances the penalties of other crimes. 

For instance, if you face DWI charges, an open container in your vehicle increases the fines and jail time you face. Oftentimes, we refer to this as an “open container enhancement.” 

In such a case, this violation of the open container law is open to treatment as a Class B misdemeanor. This level of misdemeanor carries fines of up to $2,000 with potential jail time of up to 180 days. 

Similarly, if you receive a charge for an open container while on DWI probation or with a suspended driver’s license, the potential penalties grow yet more severe. No matter the penalty, it’s important to understand how far-reaching the consequences can be. 

While the state’s punishment is limited to a relatively minute fine, it goes on your record. Often, this has a negative impact on academic and career pursuits. For example, you might have a harder time attaining financial aid. 

Additionally, many employers check criminal records. Moreover, when you need a professional license or security clearance, these records come under consideration. Lastly, car insurance companies often consider people with open container law convictions a higher risk. That leads to higher monthly premiums. 

Fighting an Open Container Charge

Whether you face basic open container charges or an enhancement to your DWI, you have an opportunity to fight the charge. If an officer pulls you over, the law requires that they have reasonable suspicion and sufficient cause to search your vehicle. 

If your charges stem from an illegal stop or an unlawful search, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. At The Martinez Law Firm, our DWI defense attorneys have a great deal of experience and expertise. Let us help you protect your future and fight for your rights. 

Don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation today. 

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DWI with a Child Passenger: What to Know

If you have a charge for a DWI with a child passenger in the vehicle, you need to act fast. With a Houston DWI lawyer, you have an advocate to help you protect your future. Schedule a free consultation today. 

Oftentimes, when we think about driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges, we picture someone walking a line in front of an officer. However, the reality is that DWI arrests are often far more complex. 

During the arrest process, law enforcement officers examine a variety of factors. Ultimately, they want to determine what a prosecutor might charge the person with. In some cases, they charge someone for a DWI with a child passenger. This is far worse than your average DWI charge. 

How Does a Minor’s Presence Change the Charge?

When someone drives drunk in a vehicle with a passenger under the age of 15, it constitutes driving while intoxicated with a child passenger. The penalties for this are much more severe than the basic DWI charge. 

Let’s take a look at the potential penalties to see how this changes the penalties. 

First-Time DWI

For a first-time DWI, you receive a class B misdemeanor. Generally, it results in one or more the following penalties. 

  • Fines up to $2,000
  • A jail term of up to 180 days 
  • Both the fine and confinement 
  • DWI education and community service

As you can see, the charges are quite serious already. However, with a child in the vehicle, you face much worse. 

First-Time DWI with a Child Passenger

Even when it’s your first offense, a DWI with a minor passenger is a felony in the state of Texas. As such, it results in the following penalties. 

  • Time in a state jail for anywhere from 180 days to 2 years
  • Fines up to $10,000

It’s easy to see the difference. Moreover, the maximum sentence for a first-time DWI is the minimum sentence when you involve a child. Texas takes drunk driving charges seriously. The penalties are already severe before you involve anyone else. 

Now, some people look at this information and think that they’ve never been drunk behind the wheel with a child in the car. However, it’s important to understand that your definition of “intoxicated” probably doesn’t match the state’s definition. 

DWI Charges and “Intoxication”

Typically, DWI charges stem from two different causes. First, people face DWI charges when their BAC is above 0.08%. However, it’s also possible to face DWI charges when you do not “have the normal use of mental or physical faculties” due to the introduction of alcohol to your system. 

Simply put, that means law enforcement officers have the power to arrest someone for a DWI even when their BAC falls under 0.08%. 

With this broad definition of intoxication, Texas has the power to charge someone for a DWI with a child passenger even when they “feel fine.” If you ever have a couple of drinks and get into a car with a passenger under 15, understand your situation. 

When the state convicts you of this crime, you face at least half a year of jail time – if not more. However, no one is guilty until the court reaches a decision. You need an advocate on your side to protect your rights and your future. 

Experienced Representation from a Houston DWI Defense Attorney

When you face charges for drunk driving for a DWI with a child passenger, you have the right to legal representation. However, it is crucial that you work with an experienced attorney with expertise in DWI cases. 

As a Houston criminal defense law firm, we offer legal representation backed by experience and expertise. To learn more about your legal options, schedule a free case evaluation with our team. Call now!

Exceptional Insight Into The Judicial System

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

Have You Been Arrested For A Criminal Offense?

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Our Legal Team Can Fight Your DWI Charges

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DWI in a Rental Car in Houston, TX

dwi-in-a-rental-car-houston-tx

When the police charge you with a DWI in a rental car in Houston, it doesn’t matter whether you live here or not. For pleasure and for business, millions of people visit the state of Texas each year. While Texas has much to offer its visitors, our state also has very strict laws around driving while intoxicated (DWI). 

Everyone needs to take drunk driving seriously because it endangers others on the road. Still, visitors to Houston often find themselves in a common scenario. Picture the following. 

You travel and work all day. As your business concludes, you have dinner and drinks with some colleagues. You head back to your hotel in a rental car on roads you don’t know. 

After a long day, you’re tired, and it’s difficult to navigate new roads in the dark. Moreover, perhaps you can’t figure out how to turn off the brights of this rental vehicle. Next thing you know, you see flashing lights behind you. 

You roll to a stop, and an officer asks whether you had anything to drink. Too often, a small mistake turns into a DWI in a rental car during a business trip or on a vacation. However, it’s important to remember that you remain innocent until proven guilty. 

You always have the right to defend yourself against drunk driving allegations. This is true even when your BAC shows above the legal limit. When you understand the consequences of a Texas DWI, you’ll see why it is essential to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. 

What Are the Penalties of a DWI in Texas?

Generally speaking, a first-time DWI in Texas is a Class B misdemeanor. That means you face up to 72 hours in jail as well as fines and a license suspension. Moreover, you face a $3,000 administrative penalty for your first DWI in 36 months. 

This mounts on top of any of the fines a judge imposes. When other factors aggravate the case, these penalties increase. These include intoxication assault, a BAC above .15%, a minor in the vehicle, and more. 

Additionally, you potentially face other penalties, such as alcohol treatment or an order for an interlock device. This device fits your car’s starter, requiring you to blow into it to start your car. If it registers any alcohol, the car does not start. 

DWI in a Rental Car: Impounded Rentals

After an arrest for a DWI in a rental car, the police have to do something with the vehicle. In some cases, they allow you to call someone to pick it up. If you had a legal, sober passenger in the car, the police might also allow them to drive it away. 

However, that’s not always the case, and the police aren’t always that patient. In those cases, it’s a good idea to check FindMyTowedCar.com or call the tow line at 713-308-8580. 

If this happens, call the rental company or ask the police to do so. They can pick up the vehicle from the impound lot. However, prepare yourself for fees and penalties. Moreover, it’s likely that you’ll need to arrange a pickup for any items you left in the car. 

Lastly, you might want to see whether this company will allow you to continue renting vehicles from them in the future. 

Texas Driver’s License

If you are a resident of Texas charged with a DWI in a rental car, the police confiscate your license. When they release you, they provide a paper that serves as a temporary license. This lasts for 40 days. 

After that period, the state suspends your license for up to two years. This duration varies with any prior drunk driving convictions and whether you refused a BAC test. 

To challenge this suspension, you have 15 days from your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation hearing. Your temporary license lasts until your hearing date. 

However, if you miss this deadline, your license remains suspended until your trial ends in a not guilty verdict. 

DWI in a Rental Car: Your Out-of-State Record

If you live in another state, your Texas DWI in a rental car is likely to follow you home. In collaboration with 44 other states, Texas shares moving violations with other states. Per the Driver License Compact Commission, this includes DWI information and convictions. 

Texas joined this compact in 1993. The purpose is to exchange information regarding traffic violations and license suspensions of non-residents. Moreover, it forwards them to their home state. 

Due to this, residents of many states see their Texas DWI follow them home. Moreover, their home state may apply its own laws to your DWI in a rental car in Houston. Additionally, Texas reports whether you enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. 

That means you face an array of penalties both in Texas and your home state. Unfortunately, this has the potential to result in staggering fines as well as jail time, points against your license, and more. 

In addition to DWIs, Texas reports an array of charges. These include the following, among others. 

  • Failure to stop and provide information 
  • Intoxication manslaughter
  • Failure to stop and render aid 
  • Felony in a motor vehicle 
  • Negligent homicide 
  • Intoxication assault 
  • Vehicular manslaughter

There are five states that are not part of the interstate compact. These are Wisconsin, Tennessee, Georgia, Michigan, and Massachusetts.

Texas does not have the power to suspend an out-of-state license. As such, it is up to your home state whether you face suspension. For instance, while Massassachusetts is not part of the compact, it often treats an out-of-state DWI as though it took place in the state. 

You Have to Face Your Charges in Texas

Regardless of whether you reside in another state, you have to handle your charges for DWI in a rental car in Texas. You have to return for any hearings as well as the trial. 

Failure to appear is always a bad idea. In this case, the Texas judge has the option to issue a default judgment against you. Often, that comes with a warrant for your arrest. 

DWI in a Rental Car: Expert Representation

If you face charges of DWI in a rental car, the stakes are high. This is true regardless of whether you live in Texas. Potentially, you face jail time, a license suspension, fines, and more. 

Moreover, you might face added penalties back home. To handle your charges in Texas, you need the representation of a skilled Houston DWI lawyer. With an experienced DWI defense attorney on your side, you have someone to mount an aggressive, strong defense. 

Backed by experience and expertise in Texas DWI cases, the Martinez Law Firm is here to help you. With extensive experience in the courtroom, Herman Martinez offers unique insight into an array of criminal defense cases. 

For a free consultation and review of your case, contact our firm today.