The Harsh Penalties For DWI In Texas
DWI (driving while intoxicated) cases in Texas are considered “bread and butter work” for defense attorneys. Everyone who has a drink that gives an “odor” of alcohol to a police officer can be “sentenced” to jail overnight or until posting bail based solely on the officer’s suspicion. If a driver “blows sober” then he is often charged with driving under the influence of drugs or medicine, an equally serious charge. There are special, harsh rules that apply when there is an accident, bodily injury, or an open alcoholic beverage container is found inside a vehicle.
Anti-drunk driving organizations lobby locally, at the State Legislature and at Congress to strengthen DWI laws and penalties. Every year, the consequences of DWI charges seem to increase. The penalties for a DWI conviction are far more serious and complicated than most people realize. What follows a DWI arrest can significantly affect your life. If you want to stay on the road, criminal proceedings, administrative hearings and other license retention efforts must receive your full attention.
The Distressing Fallout Of A DWI Arrest
Many clients who come to us following a DWI arrest had never before been in trouble with the law. The many hours in jail waiting for pretrial release or bail bring home the shocking reality of their situation. They fear that they will lose their driver’s license and lose their job. They dread the next insurance bill. They dread the “surcharge,” up to $2,000 per year for three years, to keep a Texas driver’s license. They want to know the impact that their first criminal charge will have on their lives.
DWI Cases Can Be Successfully Defended
Our job in a DWI case includes helping you keep your driving privileges. This includes representation at Administrative License Revocation (ALR) proceedings and applications for restricted license necessary for employment and family necessities.
Many DWI cases can be successfully defended: the police are not infallible. The testing equipment is not without defects or poor maintenance. The breathalyzer and its operators often make mistakes. One published statistic is that 90% of all DWI arrests result in a guilty plea, but 50% of the cases that are set for trial result in a dismissal or a not guilty.
Contact The DWI Attorneys At Mallett Saper LLP
If you have been charged with DWI, don’t plead guilty, contact the Houston attorneys at Mallett Saper LLP. Call 713-423-6769 or fill out our online contact form.