Being arrested for a DWI in Texas can feel overwhelming. You may be confused about what to do next and worried about the consequences of your actions. Whether it’s your first time facing such a charge or you’ve been through a similar situation before, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions. What matters most now is how you handle the situation and the decisions you make in the days and weeks following your arrest.
If you’ve been arrested for a DWI in Texas, you don’t have to face this alone. Many people in your shoes make mistakes in the aftermath, but with the right guidance, you can avoid common errors that could hurt your case. It’s important to know that we are here to help you navigate through this difficult time and to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Understanding the Consequences of a DWI Arrest in Texas
Before moving forward, it’s essential to understand the severity of a DWI charge in Texas. Being arrested for driving while intoxicated can have significant legal and personal consequences. These can include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, or even jail time. The severity of the penalties can increase with prior convictions, higher blood alcohol content, or if there are aggravating factors such as a child passenger or causing an accident. The stakes are high, which is why handling the case carefully and avoiding mistakes is crucial.
Failing to Request a Hearing for Your Driver’s License
One of the first mistakes many people make after a DWI arrest is failing to request a hearing to protect their driver’s license. In Texas, your driver’s license can be automatically suspended if you refuse to take a breath or blood test, or if your blood alcohol concentration exceeds the legal limit of 0.08%. You have just 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an administrative hearing to challenge the suspension. If you miss this deadline, your license could be suspended for up to 90 days, or even longer, depending on your situation.
PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS AND FUTURE
Criminal Defense Attorney
Douglas Wilder
Attorney Douglas Wilder has always stayed on the cutting edge of training and attending seminars to ensure he has the most knowledge he can to represent his clients. This has led him to be recognized as one of the Best Lawyers under 40 in Dallas by D magazine, and also recognized as a Super Lawyer for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, & 2023. .
If you don’t take action quickly, you may be left without the ability to drive for a long time, which can severely affect your ability to work, take care of personal matters, and more. By contacting the right attorney soon after your arrest, you can ensure you meet the required deadlines and take the necessary steps to protect your driving privileges.
Not Seeking Legal Representation Right Away
Another common mistake is waiting too long to hire an attorney. While some individuals may believe they can handle the situation on their own, this often leads to poor decision-making or missed opportunities to reduce the impact of the charges. The legal process for a DWI case can be complex, with many potential defenses that could help your case. A skilled attorney can evaluate the details of your arrest and determine if there are any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Additionally, an attorney can help you avoid self-incrimination and guide you through the process of gathering evidence, handling court dates, and negotiating plea deals. Even if you think you are guilty, it is still beneficial to have legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. The earlier you get help, the better your chances of securing a favorable result.
The Wilder Law Firm helped me overcome my case with the most favorable outcome possible. My case was dismissed very quickly and they kept me updated throughout the process. They handled all of my court appearances which kept me from having to spend time away from work. I greatly appreciate their help and would highly recommend them.”
- Forrest Davis
I hired the Wilder Law Firm to help with my Family Violence Citations due to it’s remarkable reviews, experience in the field and high approval rating! The firm successfully resolved my cases and got both of them dismissed. This has not only given me a greater relief, but I’m happy and excited that I have no record to worry about. Thank you everyone at the Wilder Law Firm for the support and patience with me. I’m very excited."
- Steve Ak
My advice– call Wilder Law Firm– they will help you! I had two cases in two different courts and they were able to get both dismissed! Facing these two charges put me in a really hard time for a few months but with the Wilder Law Firm’s help, I was able to put all this past me and move on with a clean record. This was a hard life lesson but I am thankful for the results."
- Rudy Castanon
Discussing the Case with Others
After a DWI arrest, it is natural to want to talk to family and friends about what happened, especially if you are feeling emotional. However, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney. Anything you say to others, whether in person, over the phone, or on social media, could potentially be used against you in court.
Texas courts have strict rules regarding statements made outside of court, and if you make admissions of guilt or say anything that could be interpreted as an acknowledgment of fault, it may harm your defense. Your attorney can help you navigate this sensitive situation by advising you on what you can and cannot say during the legal proceedings.
Not Taking the Charge Seriously
Some people mistakenly think that a first DWI offense isn’t a serious matter. They might assume that because it’s their first arrest, the consequences won’t be too harsh. However, even a first offense can result in severe penalties. Texas law treats DWIs seriously, and even a first conviction can lead to fines, probation, community service, mandatory alcohol education, and the potential for a suspended license.
Failing to take the charge seriously can result in consequences that could have been avoided with the right legal representation and actions. Being proactive and aggressive in defending yourself will make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
700+ ACQUITTALS, DISMISSALS & REDUCTIONS FOR OUR CLIENTS
Ignoring the Importance of Evidence
Another mistake that can hurt your case is ignoring or overlooking key evidence that may help you. In some situations, the evidence against you may not be as strong as it appears. There may be issues with the way field sobriety tests were conducted, problems with the breathalyzer test, or even mistakes made by the arresting officer.
It is important to gather as much evidence as possible, including video footage, witness statements, and medical records. This evidence can be crucial in disputing the accuracy of test results or the validity of your arrest. Your attorney will know what evidence to collect and how to present it in the best possible light to the court.
Not Considering the Long-Term Consequences
A DWI conviction can affect more than just your immediate situation. Many people fail to realize how a DWI on their record can impact their future. From job prospects to car insurance rates, a DWI conviction can follow you long after your case is resolved.
By taking the right steps now, such as working with an experienced attorney, you can minimize the long-term effects of the conviction and protect your future. An attorney can help you explore alternatives to a conviction, such as plea deals or diversion programs, which can significantly reduce the consequences of a DWI on your record.
A DWI arrest in Texas is a serious matter, and making mistakes in the aftermath can have lasting consequences. By understanding the common errors that many people make, you can avoid these pitfalls and take the right steps to protect yourself. Time is of the essence, so it’s important to act quickly and hire the right attorney to guide you through the legal process.
At Wilder Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming a DWI arrest can be. Our team is committed to helping you navigate this challenging time and work toward the best possible outcome for your case. If you’re facing a DWI charge in Texas, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for the guidance and support you need. Let us help you avoid costly mistakes and fight for your future.