If you have been convicted of a felony DWI, this charge will permanently remain on your criminal record. This can lead to lengthy explanations to employers, landlords, and even potential partners about your arrest and conviction. It’s a burden that can become tiresome very quickly, that is if you don’t use a Fort Worth felony DWI lawyer to handle your case.
However, remember that until a judge delivers a verdict, you are presumed innocent. You can take proactive steps to protect your future by securing the help of a Fort Worth DWI lawyer.
At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we offer free consultations to guide you through this challenging time. Trust our three decades of experience to get the results you want.
The Serious Consequences of a Felony DWI Conviction
Before discussing the advantages of hiring our Fort Worth criminal defense lawyers, it’s essential to understand the implications of felony DWI charges in Fort Worth. In Texas, DWI charges can be classified as a Class B misdemeanor, Class A misdemeanor, or a felony.
Typically, a first-time DWI offense is a misdemeanor unless certain aggravating factors apply. Misdemeanor penalties may include fines up to $2,000, up to six months in jail, and a license suspension of up to one year.
In contrast, a felony DWI conviction carries much harsher penalties, including:
- Fines up to $10,000
- Up to 10 years in prison
- License suspension for up to two years
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) after two or more DWI convictions
When does a DWI Become a Felony?
A DWI may escalate to a felony under several circumstances, including:
- Two prior DWI or DUI convictions
- Intoxication assault resulting in serious injury
- Intoxication manslaughter
- Having a child under 15 in the vehicle
- An excessively high blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
Attorney Randall B. Isenberg has a wealth of experience defending clients against felony DWI charges. With over 30 years as a district judge, prosecutor, and defense lawyer, he brings a comprehensive perspective to every case.
Our team consistently achieves favorable outcomes for clients who thought they had no legal options.
How Soon Should You Hire a Fort Worth DWI Lawyer?
Engaging a Fort Worth felony DWI lawyer early in the process is vital. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of building a strong defense. Your attorney can begin gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and scrutinizing police reports immediately after your arrest.
This proactive approach can uncover critical details that may lead to a favorable outcome, such as reduced charges or even dismissal of the case. If you are concerned about the cost of a Fort Worth DWI lawyer, we invite you to discuss our pricing structure with us in a risk-free consultation session. Traditionally, you can expect the following factors to be included in billing:
- Hourly Rate: Many DWI lawyers charge an hourly rate, which can range from $150 to $400 per hour, depending on their experience and reputation.
- Flat Fee: We may offer a flat fee for handling a DWI case, which can range from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. This fee typically covers all aspects of the case, including pre-trial motions, court appearances, and negotiations.
- Retainer Fee: In some instances, our lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that secures legal services. This fee is then drawn from the hourly rate as we work on your case.
- Additional Costs: Keep in mind that there may be additional costs associated with your case, such as court fees, expert witness fees, and costs for obtaining evidence.
Felony DWI Strategies that Yield Favorable Outcomes
Fighting a felony DWI charge alone is a mistake that could have long-lasting repercussions. A felony conviction can severely limit your opportunities for housing, employment, and affordable insurance.
A skilled felony DWI defense attorney can employ various strategies to challenge the charges against you:
- Were your constitutional rights violated during the traffic stop or investigation? For instance, if the officer lacked probable cause for the stop or conducted an illegal search, your arrest might be considered unlawful.
- Was the breath test administered correctly? If the equipment was not calibrated properly or the technician lacked sufficient training, the evidence against you may be deemed unreliable.
- Does the prosecution possess strong evidence? The state must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If they fall short, we can seek to have your case dismissed.
Trust us to focus on the critical elements that the prosecution must prove to elevate your DWI to a felony. We will identify any weaknesses in their case, as errors during your arrest or investigation can invalidate key evidence.
Understanding the Long-Term Impact of a Felony DWI Conviction
A felony DWI conviction can have lasting repercussions that extend far beyond immediate legal penalties. The social stigma associated with a felony record can affect various aspects of life, including your personal relationships and community standing.
Employers often conduct background checks, and a felony can significantly hinder your chances of securing desirable employment. Landlords may also be reluctant to rent to individuals with felony convictions, limiting your housing options. Additionally, many insurance providers may increase your premiums or deny coverage altogether due to your criminal record.
To avoid the harshest legal consequences of a DWI, let our Fort Worth DWI legal team help you.
Get Your DWI Charges Reduced
If your felony DWI charge stems from a high BAC, our felony DWI attorneys in Fort Worth will look for weaknesses in the case, including any procedural errors made during your arrest.
If we find such issues, we may be able to negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor, such as reckless driving. While this won’t eliminate all penalties, it could lead to reduced jail time and fines.
Proven Success in DWI Defense
At this Dallas-based law firm, we have a strong track record of securing positive outcomes for our clients. We take on cases that other defense lawyers may shy away from, achieving results such as:
- Complete dismissal of a third-time DWI charge
- Reduction of a .15 DWI to a Class B misdemeanor
- A .15 DWI reduced without any jail time
- Probation granted for a first-time DWI
We are proud of our successes, and when we take on your case, we are committed to achieving the best possible results.
How Hiring a Certified Criminal Defense Lawyer Helps You
We understand what’s at stake the moment that you walk into our office. To our firm, you aren’t just a number but a human being who wants to get back to normalcy and preserve their reputation.
Our goal is to ensure fairness and protect your best interests. Experience the following benefits of hiring a certified criminal defense attorney:
- Legal Knowledge: Our certified lawyers possess extensive training in criminal law and understand court procedures, enabling them to handle your case effectively.
- Strategic Defense Planning: Our skilled attorneys will analyze your case and develop a tailored defense strategy, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
- Protection of Your Rights: Your lawyer will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld, identifying any violations such as unlawful searches or lack of probable cause.
- Negotiation Skills: We are experienced litigators who can negotiate with prosecutors for plea deals or reduced charges, potentially minimizing penalties.
- Access to Resources: Our Texas law firm has access to expert witnesses and investigators, which can strengthen your defense.
- Emotional Support: Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Our lawyers provide legal guidance and emotional support throughout the process.
- Better Outcomes: Studies show that individuals with legal representation are more likely to achieve favorable results in their cases but put it to the test and retain our attorneys.
Curious About Alternative Sentencing Options?
In some cases, a skilled DWI attorney can negotiate alternative sentencing options that may be available to you. Programs such as:
- Alcohol education classes
- Community service
- Treatment programs
All have the potential to replace traditional penalties, allowing you to avoid jail time while addressing underlying issues related to alcohol use. These alternatives not only mitigate the impact of a conviction but also demonstrate to the court your commitment to making positive changes.
Contact Our Fort Worth Felony DWI Lawyers Today
If you are facing felony DWI charges in Fort Worth, now is the time to act. The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg is here to help. Our compassionate and knowledgeable legal team understands that everyone makes mistakes, including law enforcement. We will examine your case closely for any errors and work tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for you.
Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation!
