A DWI Charge – What You Need to Know

A DWI charge means that if you have a blood alcohol content of .08% or above while behind the wheel, you can get arrested for a DWI.

 

In Texas, there are no alternatives or lesser charges to DWI, so the prosecution will be seeking the maximum penalties against you.
What are the penalties for drunk driving?
Your first DWI charge & conviction can have you put in jail for up to 180 days with fines of up to $2,000. Your license could also be suspended for up to a year.
What about a second DWI offense?
The penalties will increase, including the possibility of the following: 
Up to a year in jail
Fines up to $4,000
Two-year license suspension
Mandatory ignition interlock installation

While a second offense is still considered a misdemeanor, so long as there are no aggravating factors, a third offense is a felony. It will carry two years in jail, up to $10,000 in fines, an extensive license suspension, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device as well.

There is no look-back period in Texas, meaning no matter how many years have elapsed between your first and current DWI, it can still be counted against you. In addition, your insurer will likely respond to a DWI conviction by raising your premiums by a few hundred dollars a month or by dropping you entirely due to your increased risk.
Do I really need a lawyer for my case?
You should be well aware that a DWI arrest is far from a DWI conviction. When you have an attorney, they can argue against your charges by utilizing a number of defenses. They can find evidence to prove those police officers had no probable cause to pull you over, that your breath or blood test was inaccurate, or that your rights were violated in some way.

With so much at stake, you need a lawyer from The Martinez Law Firm to argue on your behalf. He is a Top DUI Lawyer as recognized by H Texas Magazine and Avvo. Representing clients throughout Houston for over 15 years, there is no case too complex. He believes that you are always innocent until proven guilty. Call today to find out how we can use our experience to benefit your case.
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