The Basics of Texas DWI Charges

In Texas, a person is legally intoxicated and may be arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) when he or she has a breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of at least 0.08 BAC. However, a person is also considered intoxicated, regardless of BAC, if he or she is obviously impaired from drinking or using drugs. If you’re facing Texas DWI charges, you could be looking at penalties ranging from thousands of dollars in fines to loss of your driver’s license to many years in prison. A general breakdown is in the table below.

First Offense

Up to $2,000 in fines
3 - 180 days in jail
$1 - 2,000 annual fee for 3 years to retain license
Loss of license up to 1 year

Second Offense

Up to $4,000 in fines
1 month to a year in jail
$1 - 2,000 annual fee for 3 years to retain license
Loss of license up to 2 years

Third Offense

$10,000 fine
2 - 10 years in prison
$1 - 2,000 annual fee for 3 years to retain license
Loss of license up to 2 years

Consequences for a DWI conviction also vary based on the number of previous convictions. If you are convicted with two or more DWIs in five years, you will be required to install a special ignition switch that prevents you from operating your vehicle if you’ve been drinking.

Charges Involving a DWI with a Child Passenger

If you were allegedly driving while intoxicated while carrying passengers younger than 15 years old, you could be charged with child endangerment. A DWI with a child passenger is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, up to two years in state jail, and loss of your driver license for 180 days.

We Defend Texas DWI Charges

With experienced legal representation, all is not lost if you’ve been charged with a DWI. There’s a chance you could have the charges reduced or even dropped, depending on your individual situation. Acting immediately increases your chances of achieving a better outcome in your case.

Contact us today for a free consultation if you have received DWI charges in Texas. Our legal team can explain your options and help you make the best decisions moving forward.