Most Effective Houston Attorney » How To Overcome Multiple DWI Arrests

You will discover there are set penalties an individual will be given for driving under the influence in Texas. Particular factors cause penalties to increase, such as numerous DWI offenses, the presence of minors, or accidents that resulted in the injury or death of another individual. Additionally to legal penalties, numerous people convicted of DWI face problems outside of the courtroom, such as social ostracism, job loss, limited future opportunities, strained personal relationships, community service requirements, damaged reputations, and loss of community. One might also face increased insurance expenses.

The following is a list of legal penalties for committing DWI in Texas:

First Texas DWI Offense:

Texas Criminal Status:
Class B Misdemeanor

Jail:
Minimum 72 hours, or 6 days if open container is present.

Texas DWI Fines/Costs:
Fine not to exceed $2,000. Other administrative and evaluation fees might be assessed. Texas imposes a "surcharge" for a DWI on top of normal fines. The surcharge is $1,000 per year for 3 years for a first DWI offense and $2,000 if the person's Blood Alcohol Content level was double or more than the legal limit (.16).

Texas License Suspension: Yes, One year.
Attending DWI Education class might prevent this. Occupational license may be granted based on need.

Texas Conditional License:
A conditional, or occupational license, may be issued based on "essential need" and usually only when the court orders an offender into alcohol assessment/rehabilitation. Offenders who have been granted occupational licenses within Ten years are ineligible. For definitions of "essential need", see Transportation Code Section 521.241.

Vehicle Impound: None

Texas DWI School:
First time offenders will need to complete a Twelve hour DWI Education Program within 180 days of when probation was granted or risk having their license revoked.

Texas Probation:
Terms of probation decided by judge or jury.

Texas Community Service:
24 hours required, but no more than One hundred hours.

Second Texas DWI Offense Plus:

Texas Criminal Status:
Class A Misdemeanor. A Third DWI is a 3rd degree felony.

Jail:
Seventy two hours, not more than 1 year. A Third DWI often means Two to Ten years in the penitentiary.

Texas DWI Fines/Costs:
Fines not to exceed $4,000. Other administrative and evaluation fees may be assessed. Texas imposes a "surcharge" for a DWI on top of normal fines. The surcharge is $1,500 per year for three years for a second DWI offense and $2,000 if the person's BAC level was double or more the legal limit (.16).

Texas License Suspension:
Yes, 180 days to two years. Occupational license may be granted based upon need.

Vehicle Impound:
None.

Texas DWI School:
Repeat offenders need to complete a 32 hour DWI Repeat Offender Program.

Texas Probation:
Terms of probation decided by judge or jury.

Texas Community Service:
Minimum 80 hours, but no more than 200 hours.

DWI and Driving with Minor:
It's a felony to drive while intoxicated accompanied by a minor younger than Fifteen years of age inside the vehicle. This particular offense carries with it a mandatory blood test. You will be forced to submit to having your blood drawn.

Commercial Vehicle:
Over .04 BAC level might suspend a commercial driver's license for one year and up to three years if the driver was carrying hazardous materials.

Under Age: 21

Texas Open Container Laws:
Yes, driver and passenger. This is a Class C Misdemeanor.

Driver Responsibility Tax:
Texas imposes a "surcharge" for a DWI on top of regular fines. The surcharge is $1,000 per year for three years for a first DWI offense, $1,500 per year for 3 years for a second DWI offense and $2,000 for a initial or subsequent conviction if the person's BAC level was double or more the legal limit (.16).

Ignition interlock device program:
Required in order to be released from jail on bond. Required for all second-offenders during probation.

Hire the Most Effective Houston DWI Lawyer!

In addition to these penalties, DWI convictions leave a mark on your criminal record for life. When you have been charged with DWI, it's vital to retain the services of an experienced Houston Criminal Lawyer. They can negotiate with judges and prosecutors to get your charges and penalties reduced or dropped. Moreover, they'll provide all of their clients with viable options, numerous resources, aggressive representation, and compassionate care.

*** These penalties are subject to change based on the circumstances surrounding every case. It's also best to consult an attorney to discuss your options and the details surrounding your particular case.