Are you facing DWI charges in Texas? Let a San Angelo DWI defense lawyer from the Law Offices of David White help.
Texas takes DWI charges very seriously, and the penalties for a conviction include steep fines, loss of driving privileges, increased insurance premiums, and even jail time. Hiring a San Angelo DWI defense lawyer from the Law Offices of David White ensures you have a strong defense strategy to fight the charges and protect your rights.
San Angelo DWI Guide
Why Choose Our San Angelo DWI Defense Lawyers?
With years of experience helping Texans facing DWI charges, The San Angelo criminal defense lawyers at Law Offices of David White are well-versed in the laws surrounding DWI offenses and have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against these charges.
Our thorough investigation of your case protects your rights by ensuring that all evidence was obtained legally and proper procedures were followed during the arrest.
We also work to uncover any potential flaws in the prosecution's case, such as unreliable breathalyzer field sobriety test results, two standard practices that leave drivers vulnerable to being wrongly charged with a DWI.
With DWI defense services available in English and Spanish at our San Angelo or Abilene offices, we strive to provide exceptional legal representation to all members of our community.
Our dedication to comprehensive legal representation is matched only by our compassionate and understanding approach that ensures clients feel supported throughout this trying experience.
How Do You Get A DWI Charge in Texas?
Traffic Stop
Erratic driving, speeding, and other road violations can lead to a traffic stop by law enforcement officers. If the officer suspects that you may be under the influence, they may conduct field sobriety, breathalyzer, or blood tests to determine if you are intoxicated.
Vehicle Accidents
If you are in a pedestrian or vehicle accident and the officer suspects that you may be under the influence, they can also conduct sobriety tests to determine your BAC. Even if the accident was not your fault, a DWI charge can still be given if intoxication is suspected.
Checkpoints
While DWI checkpoints are not legal in Texas, ones to verify insurance and license compliance are allowed. If an officer suspects you may be under the influence at one of these checkpoints, they may administer a sobriety test and charge you with a DWI, depending on the results.
Refusal
While it is your legal right to do so, refusing a sobriety test or Breathalyzer can result in serious sanctions because Texas has an implied consent law. When you obtain a driver's license, you agree to submit to chemical testing if police suspect you of driving while intoxicated.
What Are the Consequences of a DWI in Texas?
The consequences of a DWI in Texas are severe, time-sensitive, and significantly damage your ability to maintain a normal life.
While penalties vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case, first-time and repeat offenders showing a BAC of 0.08 percent or more, or three or more nanograms of controlled drugs in their system could face:
- $2,000 to $10,000 in fines
- Three days to 10 years in prison
- One to two years license suspension
First-time offenders tend to receive the lower end of these sentences, while repeat offenders, those who cause serious harm to others, or those with extreme intoxication above 0.15 BAC, may face harsher, mandatory penalties such as:
- Ignition interlock device installation
- Community service
- Mandatory education classes and counseling
- Doubled prison sentences and fines regardless of specific circumstances
- Permanent loss of driving privileges.
Beyond potential legal consequences, a DWI charge also risks your professional, financial, and emotional well-being, with ramifications that include:
- Job loss or difficulty finding employment
- Increased insurance rates
- Damage to personal and professional relationships
- Emotional distress, stress, and anxiety
- Refused entry into foreign countries
The consequences of a DWI charge in Texas start immediately and only get more severe as time goes on. If you've been charged with a DWI in San Angelo or the surrounding area, don't wait to seek legal help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how to protect yourself from the harsh consequences of a DWI charge.
Can I Avoid Penalties With a San Angelo DWI Defense Lawyer?
A DWI charge doesn't mean automatic guilt.
While the specifics of your case will ultimately determine the outcome and severity of your consequences, an experienced San Angelo DWI defense lawyer may be able to help reduce or eliminate penalties by:
- Showing the traffic stop was illegal or conducted without probable cause
- Challenging the accuracy of field sobriety, breathalyzer, or blood test results
- Proving that your BAC was below the legal limit at the time of arrest
- Demonstrating errors or flaws in police procedures during arrest and processing
Even if you cannot avoid penalties entirely, a skilled DWI defense lawyer may still help you secure a more favorable outcome, such as:
- Reduction of charges to a lesser offense
- Reduced fines and/or jail time
- Deferred adjudication or probation
- Issuance of an occupational driving license
The best way to understand your options and potential outcomes is to seek legal representation from one of our San Angelo DWI defense lawyers. With their experience, knowledge, and dedication to protecting your rights, you can navigate the legal system with confidence and peace of mind.
Our San Angelo Practice Areas
The Law Offices of David White cover multiple practice areas in criminal defense and personal injury, including but not limited to:
- Drug crimes
- Records expungement
- Early probation requests
- Domestic abuse
- Vehicle accidents
- Wrongful death
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace injuries
Don't see a practice area that applies to your situation? Contact us today; we may still be able to help you with your criminal defense or personal injury case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas?
Under Texas law, a person may face a DWI charge if they operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if they’re impaired by alcohol or drugs to the extent that their ability to drive safely is compromised. For commercial drivers, the BAC limit is 0.04%, and for anyone under age 21, having any detectable alcohol in their system can result in legal consequences under DUI charges.
2. What are the penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas?
Texas takes DWI cases seriously, and the penalties for a DWI conviction range from fines and loss of driving privileges to potential jail time. Depending on the individual circumstances, such as whether it is a felony DWI or misdemeanor, you could face:
- Fines between $2,000 and $10,000
- Jail sentences ranging from three days to 10 years
- Suspension or permanent revocation of your driver’s license
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Mandated community service or alcohol counseling
A DWI conviction can also jeopardize your career, increase insurance rates, and affect your personal and emotional well-being. Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer in San Angelo can help fight for the best possible outcome.
3. What should I do if I’m arrested for a DWI in San Angelo, Texas?
If you’re arrested in San Angelo or surrounding areas like Tom Green County, take the following immediate steps:
- Remain calm and avoid resisting arrest.
- Do not admit guilt or plead guilty without consulting a criminal defense attorney.
- Request to speak with a San Angelo DWI defense lawyer.
- Avoid providing unnecessary information beyond your driver’s license and basic identification.
- Seek an initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to review your legal rights and options.
Early action by a DWI attorney could be critical in launching a strong defense or exploring options like reducing charges or challenging evidence.
4. How can hiring an experienced San Angelo DWI defense lawyer help me?
A defense attorney with a deep understanding of Texas criminal law can provide effective defense strategies tailored to your case. They may:
- Challenge evidence such as inaccurate breathalyzer or sobriety test results
- Scrutinize police reports and ensure proper arrest procedures were followed
- Identify potential defense strategies, such as disputing BAC accuracy or procedural errors
- Fight hard to reduce charges, negotiate probation, or prevent a criminal conviction
If you’re arrested for a DWI in San Angelo TX, partnering with a skilled criminal defense lawyer can make the difference between severe penalties and a favorable outcome.
5. What if I refuse a sobriety or breathalyzer test?
Refusing a sobriety or breathalyzer test in Texas can result in serious consequences under the state’s implied consent law. This law means that by holding a driver’s license, you’ve agreed to chemical testing if suspected of DWI. Refusal can lead to:
- Immediate suspension of your license by the Texas Department of Public Safety
- Evidence of refusal being used against you in a criminal case
Discussing your options with a San Angelo DWI defense attorney can help mitigate the damage and explore legal remedies.
6. What are some potential defenses against a DWI charge?
Every DWI case is unique, and an experienced criminal defense attorney will craft a defense based on your individual circumstances. Common defenses include:
- Lack of probable cause for the traffic stop
- Errors in field or chemical sobriety tests
- Evidence of police misconduct or procedural violations
- Proof your BAC was under the legal limit at the time of the arrest
A skilled criminal defense lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover flaws in the prosecution's case and seek the best outcome tailored to your needs.
7. Can I avoid jail time or harsh penalties?
Although jail time is a potential penalty, many DWI lawyers focus on securing alternative outcomes such as probation, deferred adjudication, or reduced charges. By acting promptly and hiring a San Angelo defense attorney, you could lower the likelihood of severe penalties. Working with an experienced lawyer increases your chances of maintaining your driving privileges and minimizing financial and personal impacts on your life.
8. How does a DWI conviction affect my future?
A DWI conviction can have serious consequences beyond the courtroom. It may:
- Limit your employment opportunities due to a criminal record
- Increase your car insurance rates significantly
- Lead to revocation of certain professional licenses
- Cause long-lasting emotional and financial stress
By partnering with a capable San Angelo criminal defense lawyer, you may avoid facing the full impact of these penalties.
9. Why choose the Law Offices of David White for my DWI case?
With a track record of success, the Law Offices of David White stand out by offering personalized attention, a deep understanding of criminal defense cases, and years of experience handling DWI cases in San Angelo, Texas. Attorney David White, a former prosecutor, uses his comprehensive knowledge of the legal system to build strong legal strategies. Additionally, the law firm emphasizes a client-centered approach, keeping you informed every step of the way while fighting for favorable outcomes.
10. Can DWI charges be dismissed or reduced?
Yes, in some cases. With the help of a skilled DWI defense attorney, you might be able to have your charges reduced to a lesser offense like reckless driving or have your case dismissed altogether. Key factors like the accuracy of evidence, proper testing procedures, and adherence to legal processes during your arrest can all play crucial roles.
11. Do you offer free consultations for DWI cases in San Angelo?
Yes, the Law Offices of David White provide a free consultation. This confidential consultation gives you an opportunity to share the details of your case, have your concerns addressed, and begin crafting a tailored defense strategy.
12. What other types of criminal cases do you handle?
The Law Offices of David White handle a variety of criminal defense cases, including but not limited to:
- Domestic violence
- Drug crimes
- Aggravated assault
- Early probation requests
- Expungement of criminal records
Should you also need guidance on personal injury law in San Angelo, our skilled attorneys are here to help.
13. What makes San Angelo DWI lawyers at this firm different?
The San Angelo DWI lawyers at David White's office combine compassion with unrivaled legal expertise. Whether it's addressing felony DWI cases, complex police reports, or your unique circumstances, the attorneys work tirelessly to protect your rights and maximize your well-being. With backgrounds from top institutions like St. Mary’s University School of Law, the firm brings unparalleled professionalism and insight to every case.
For a free consultation and effective legal representation in San Angelo Texas, reach us at 325-335-6115 and let our dedicated defense attorneys help secure your future.
Protect Your Driving Future With An Experienced San Angelo DWI Defense Lawyer
With some of the strictest DWI laws in the country, Texas takes driving while intoxicated very seriously. Don't risk your future by trying to navigate the legal system alone.
Contact us today at 325-437-3311 for a free consultation and let our experienced San Angelo criminal defense lawyers help you protect your rights, fight for a favorable outcome, and get you back on the road as soon as possible.
Schedule a free consultation today and let our San Angelo DWI defense lawyers protect your driving future.