Regardless of which category you fall into, it is in your interest to fight a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge, and our DWI lawyer in Dallas can help you do that. Our criminal attorneys at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you understand the range of punishments that accompany a Dallas DWI charge and what your legal rights and options are.
Texas is a zero-tolerance state when it comes to people getting behind the wheel and operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Even if it’s your first time facing this criminal offense, you can face consequences that can stick for a long time. Several scenarios could lead to you being charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas. Two of those scenarios are:
- You refused to submit a breath or blood sample.
- You submitted a breath or blood sample showing you were legally intoxicated at your arrest.
Our Dallas criminal defense lawyers are ready to develop a strong defense strategy to help you resolve your case. After getting an overview of what to expect following a DWI charge in Dallas County, take advantage of a confidential consultation with one of our criminal lawyers whose main goal is to protect your constitutional rights and preserve your future
Winning Defense Strategies: Fighting DWI Charges in Dallas County
During this stressful time, you may be overwhelmed, but our extensive experience is the advantage that sets our law firm apart. Our criminal defense lawyer in Dallas can help you sort out the criminal charges you face and, by using an applicable winning defense strategy, help you avoid months in jail, a license suspension, and other consequences.
Our formidable defense strategy includes the following:
- A thorough examination of key aspects, such as blood alcohol testing, reasonable suspicion, blood alcohol levels, and breath test devices.
- We scrutinize the procedures involved in blood alcohol testing to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- We explore the validity of the initial stop, assessing whether there was reasonable suspicion to justify the traffic stop.
Our experienced attorneys meticulously review blood alcohol levels and the calibration of breath test devices, aiming to identify any potential flaws or inconsistencies. Our goal is to mount a strong defense and provide you with the best chance at a favorable resolution in your DWI case. No matter if you need a Dallas intoxication manslaughter lawyer or a Dallas intoxication assault lawyer, we have a defense for you.
Understanding the Different Types of DWI Charges in Texas
Being charged with DWI means different things to different people. Some factors that could affect the severity of your DWI charge include:
- Whether it’s your first DWI offense
- Whether you submitted a blood or breath sample to the arresting officer or when you arrived at a police station or other law enforcement facility.
- If you did submit a breath or blood sample, what was your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) when you submitted the sample?
- Whether you had an open container of alcohol or drugs present in your vehicle.
- Whether you had a minor in your vehicle at the time of the arrest.
- Whether you were in an accident that precipitated your arrest.
These and possibly other factors may determine the severity of the DWI charge that you or your loved one are currently facing.
Navigating the Legal Consequences: Penalties for DWI in Dallas
According to the Texas Penal Code Section 49.04, a first-time DWI conviction qualifies as a Class B misdemeanor offense. The Texas Politics Project affirms that Texas sentencing guidelines for a Class B misdemeanor conviction could result in:
- A $2,000 fine
- Up to 180 days in jail
If you have an open container of alcohol in your vehicle at the time of your arrest, the offense can elevate from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, and you could face a minimum jail term of six days. You may also face a charge that is a Class A misdemeanor if your blood alcohol registered 0.15 or greater at the time of the arrest.
A conviction for a Class A misdemeanor may carry a punishment of:
- One year in jail
- A $4,000 fine
If you had a child in your vehicle at the time of your arrest for a driving while intoxicated charge, then you may be charged with a state jail felony. Conviction on a DWI charge categorized as a state jail felony may carry a punishment of:
- Two years in state jail
- A $10,000 fine
If you are involved in an accident and charged with a DWI-related offense, then you may not be able to have your record ever hidden from public view. This potential outcome means the consequences of your DWI conviction could last for the rest of your life.
Life-Altering Consequences: How a DWI Conviction Can Impact You?
Before delving into the specific legal consequences of a DWI conviction, it is important to know that regardless of the severity of your looming charge, your life could be impacted for the foreseeable future by a conviction. Those who have a DWI arrest—let alone a conviction—on their record may face challenges that they did not foresee prior to being charged.
Keep in mind that there is a criminal procedure in Texas for expunging an arrest from your record (Code of Criminal Procedure, Title 1, Chapter 55). Per this statute, expunging a conviction is generally much more difficult than an arrest. Because a conviction may be visible to the public, it could result in you facing:
- Difficulty obtaining a loan, whether for a business, home, or another reason.
- Prejudice in family-related matters, such as any child custody battles in which you could become engaged.
- Difficulty obtaining employment, especially in highly competitive fields where a driving while intoxicated conviction may be the difference between you and another candidate.
- The restriction of certain rights, depending on how severe your DWI charge is.
- Trouble obtaining housing, as a DWI conviction may be held against you as a possible red flag.
- Damage to your reputation and self-esteem.
While DWI convictions are often understood to result primarily from drunk driving, they can also involve situations where the driver is under the influence of drugs. If you’ve been convicted of a DWI and were under the influence of drugs at the time, it’s a smart idea to hire a Dallas lawyer for drug crime defense cases.
It is important to recognize that while the legal penalties for a DWI conviction are generally quite steep, secondary consequences of a conviction may follow you well beyond whatever legal punishment you endure.
Fees Associated With DWI Incidents in Dallas
A Dallas DWI attorney can help you understand the full scope of your financial obligation in your DWI case. While the specific fees can vary depending on the circumstances and legal requirements, the following are probable fees:
- Legal fees: Engaging the services of a skilled DWI attorney in Dallas is essential to navigate the legal process. Legal fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case, experience of the attorney, and the services provided. However, the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg will always communicate our fees upfront.
- Court costs: If your case goes to court, you may be responsible for court costs, which can include filing fees, administrative expenses, and other related charges.
- Fines: DWI offenses often result in fines imposed by the court. The amount of the fine can depend on factors such as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior convictions, and local laws.
- License reinstatement fees: If your driver’s license is suspended or revoked due to the DWI incident, you will likely need to pay fees to reinstate your driving privileges once the suspension period is over.
- SR-22 insurance: After a DWI incident, you may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a specialized form of high-risk insurance. This type of insurance generally carries higher premiums than standard auto insurance policies.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) costs: Depending on the circumstances, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle. The costs associated with the installation, maintenance, and monthly monitoring of the IID are typically the responsibility of the offender.
- Alcohol Education or Treatment Programs: In some cases, participation in alcohol education or treatment programs may be a requirement. These programs may incur costs that you will need to cover.
Securing Legal Representation: The Importance of a Dallas DWI Lawyer Managing Your Case
The potential penalties for a DWI conviction in Dallas make it clear why you should pull out all the stops when defending yourself from your charge. Our DWI attorneys in Dallas provide comprehensive legal services that are beneficial to your case and will help you take your mind off the stress of impending DWI-related charges.
Legal counsel from our criminal defense law firm along with experts or specialists that we employ can help you avoid long-term consequences that could affect where you live and what opportunities you have. We take care of your case while you work to put your life back together. Trust the legal advice of an aggressive defense team to handle your DWI charges.
How Our Experienced Attorneys in Dallas Can Help You
Our firm’s lead attorney, Randall B. Isenberg, has over 30 years’ experience in several facets of the legal system—as a state district judge, prosecutor, and attorney. Because he has served in various roles in the legal system, he can offer unique insight into how to build your case. He is also board-certified in criminal defense, so he, along with his team of defense lawyers, knows just how they can help you handle the charges you face.
From the beginning of the initial consultation and throughout your case, our defense lawyers will:
- Determine which plea deal can best minimize the personal, financial, and reputational harm that you may sustain from a conviction.
- Look for potential misconduct present in your arrest.
- Rely on experts to help strengthen your case.
- Handle all of the legal responsibilities necessary to put forth your defense.
- Defend your rights throughout your legal matter.
With the possibility of jail time, hefty fines, and long-lasting effects on your record, it’s important to have skilled legal representation in Dallas County by your side. Our team of Dallas DWI lawyers understands the severity of these charges and is dedicated to helping you navigate through the legal process. Check out our successful track record of Texas DWI cases.
Key Mistakes to Avoid After Being Charged With a DWI
If you haven’t had a chance to connect with a comprehensive defense legal team, be mindful of your actions and avoid certain behaviors that could potentially worsen your situation, such as:
- Driving under the influence: It should go without saying, but it’s crucial to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so can lead to additional charges, prolong legal proceedings, and further complicate your case.
- Ignoring legal proceedings: Avoid disregarding any legal obligations or Dallas County court dates related to your DWI charge. Failure to comply with court orders, such as appearing in court or meeting deadlines, can result in additional penalties and potentially a warrant for your arrest.
- Discussing your case publicly: It’s advisable to refrain from discussing details of your DWI case on social media or with individuals who are not directly involved in your defense. Publicly discussing your case can have unintended consequences and may be used against you by the prosecution.
- Failing to seek legal representation: A DWI charge is a serious matter that requires proper legal representation. Avoid the mistake of not hiring an experienced DWI attorney in Dallas County to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
- Violating probation or terms of release: If you are released on bail or placed on probation, it’s crucial to adhere to all conditions set by the court. Violating probation or the terms of your release can result in additional charges, revocation of bail, or increased penalties.
- Not taking the charge seriously: A DWI charge is a significant legal matter that can have lasting consequences. Avoid downplaying the severity of the situation or underestimating the potential impact on your personal and professional life. Taking the charge seriously.
Contact the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg: Trusted DWI Defense in Dallas
Now is the time to fight for your future. If you are facing criminal charges after driving while intoxicated, it’s time to call us and learn more about how our Dallas DWI attorney can help you. Our team will fight on your behalf and seek the best result for you. You may be able to avoid jail time and fines. Contact the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today for a free consultation.
