DWI Representation
contact us at 817-841-9887

Did you receive a dwi?

     Having an attorney in your corner is a must for any alcohol related offense.  If this is your first DWI or DUI case you will have many questions about the process and the severity of the case.  Your license will likely be suspended for a period of time, jail time is possible (but normally unlikely), surcharges to the State of Texas will have to be paid.  Bottom line the process can be daunting from the outside looking in.  Let a seasoned professional help guide you through the process.
First Step: Get out of Jail
       This will likely be best accomplished by contacting a bail bondsman or having a family member put up the cash bond (normally ranging from $500 - $2000, for a 1st offense)

Second Step: Contact Our Office
       There are many issues that must be dealt with early on in a DWI case, including the ALR Hearing request.  This is the Administrative License Revocation Process.  The Texas DPS is going to try and take your license.  You only have 15 days to request the hearing or you will be suspended, even if the case has not been filed yet.

Third Step:  Court Dates and Finalizing the Case
   You will have to be present in Court.  Mr. Smith will discuss the varying options for your case depending on the facts.  What does the video show, field sobriety tests, blood or breath results, past offenses, etc.  Many times jail time can be avoided.

the facts about a dwi

     Many people don't understand the severity of a DWI case.  Listed below are the bottom line facts about DWI Convictions that people need to know:

  1. DWI 1st - this is a Class B Misdemeanor in Texas, carrying a punishment of up to 180 days in jail and or, a fine of up to $2000.
  2. DWI 2nd - this is a Class A Misdemeanor in Texas, carrying a punishment of up to 1 year in jail and or, a fine of up to $4000.
  3. DWI 3rd - State Jail FELONY
  4. SUPER FINE - all DWI convictions (without Probation) will incur surcharges to be paid to the State of Texas.  The minimum amount is $1000.00 per year for 3 years running.
  5. The higher the blood or breath result, the more severe the punishment and surcharges.
  6. License Suspension - Most likely a person will lose her license for a period of time.  Again, the severity of the case directly corresponds to the length of the suspension.
    - You may be eligible for an occupational license to keep you driving.

new non-disclosure and DEFERRED optionS for dwi 1st!

     As of September 2020, the Texas State Legislature has added the possibility of deferred adjudication or a non-disclosure if your case fits certain criteria.  This is a significant change and benefit to the client.  In the past, probation for a DWI would keep a person out of jail but not keep the charge off their criminal records.  The new deferred and non-disclosure rules will allow first offenders to seal their records from most employers and civil background searches (apartment or leasing agencies, etc.).  Law Enforcement and government agencies can still see the case.
Criteria:
1. Must be a DWI 1st Offense
2. The Blood Alcohol Level Under 0.15
3. No accident with another person involved (including passenger)

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