The consequences of a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) conviction in Texas can be rather severe. 

Even a first time conviction can leave you to deal with some major setbacks in your life, up to and including fines, jail time, and a permanent record. 

There’s a difference between being charged with a DWI and being convicted. If you speak to an experienced Attorney before being found guilty, there’s a chance you could have your charges reduced or dropped altogether. 

Learn more about DWI in Texas below. 

Texas DWI Consequences

Driving under the influence is a crime the state of Texas takes seriously. If you’ve been arrested, contact a lawyer as soon as you can in order to give yourself the best chance of avoiding some of the harshest penalties of a DWI. 

Contrary to popular belief, the penalties for even a first-time DWI in Texas can include jail time. 

In fact, if you’re convicted for the first time of DWI, you are required to spend three days in jail. 

Some of the other punishments include:

•  Up to $2,000 fine

• Up to 180 days in jail

• Loss of License up to a year

After losing your license, getting it back is not an automatic process. You have to apply to have your license reinstated, and could be charged up to $2,000 a year for three years in order to retain your license after a DWI. 

After a second or third conviction, the penalties for a DWI get even harsher. 

For example, a third offense includes a $10,000 fine, a prison sentence between two to ten years, and the loss of your license for up to two years. 

DWI Related Crimes in Dallas

Certain offenses related to DWI can also have additional consequences. 

For example, you can be charged with child endangerment if you’re caught driving drunk with children under 15 in the car. 

This charge can lead to an additional fine of up $10,000, a maximum jail sentence of two years, and an additional 180 days loss of license. 

Driving with an open container is also a crime that can be severely punished in Texas, even if you’re not legally drunk.  

How to Fight Back Against a DWI Charge in Texas

Because DWI punishments are so severe in Texas, it’s important to talk to an experienced DWI attorney as soon as possible to defend your rights after an arrest. 

Your attorney can help you uncover different DWI defense tactics, such as:

• Questioning the legality of the arrest

• Questioning if the officer had probable cause to pull you over

• Looking over chemical test results for irregularities 

Only by reviewing your case personally can an attorney come up with the correct defense for you. 

Arrested? Speak to a DWI Lawyer Today

Have you been arrested for DWI in Texas? Fight back with the help of a top-rated Dallas DWI attorney from Chris Lewis & Associates. 

Call them at 817-605-1010 or visit their website to request a consultation.