If you are visiting Texas and have found yourself charged with driving while intoxicated, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, confused, and uncertain about what comes next. A DWI charge can feel like a serious threat to your personal freedom and your future. At this moment, you might be wondering how this situation will impact you, your rights, and your ability to continue enjoying your visit to the state. Rest assured, the legal process is something that can be navigated with the right help.
At our firm, we understand how stressful and frightening this can be, especially when you are away from home. The last thing you need while visiting Texas is the added worry of dealing with criminal charges. However, with the right legal support, you can approach the situation with clarity and confidence. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.
Understanding DWI Charges in Texas
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is taken seriously in Texas. The law defines DWI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more, or under the influence of drugs. This includes alcohol, prescription medications, illegal substances, or even over-the-counter drugs if they impair your ability to drive safely.
For visitors, the concern is often about the local laws and how they may differ from those in your home state. It’s important to know that Texas has strict penalties for DWI offenses, which can range from fines and license suspension to jail time in severe cases. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, you will be treated the same in the eyes of the law.
In addition to alcohol, Texas law also recognizes that impairment doesn’t only come from drinking. It includes any substance that affects your physical or mental ability to operate a vehicle. This could include prescription drugs, illegal narcotics, and even marijuana, depending on the situation.
PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS AND FUTURE 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. .
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What Happens Immediately After a DWI Arrest
After being arrested for DWI, you will likely go through a process that includes a series of legal steps. One of the first things that might happen is that you will be taken to jail, especially if you failed a field sobriety test or refused to take a breathalyzer or blood test. Once arrested, you may be held in jail until you can post bail, which may be set by the court.
If you are a visitor to Texas, it can feel even more daunting. You might have questions about the legal process, your rights, and how this could affect your trip. You may be worried about being detained or how to handle the situation from far away. The good news is that with the right help, your case can be handled efficiently without you having to deal with everything on your own.
The first thing you should do is contact an attorney. You have the right to a legal representative, and having an experienced lawyer on your side can help you understand your options and the best course of action.
The Legal Process for DWI in Texas
The legal process for a DWI charge can be lengthy, but it’s important to understand how it works and what to expect. After your arrest, you will be given a court date for your initial appearance, which is when you will be formally charged. This court date will be scheduled relatively quickly after your arrest. During this initial appearance, your rights will be explained, and you will have the opportunity to plead guilty or not guilty.
Better call Doug!! Doug is the best lawyer you can find for DWI or DUI cases in Dallas. I read many reviews before choosing Doug for representing my case. Doug handled DWI and DUI cases for last 25 years, He has good relationships with DA office and is Well respected in the community. I have peace of mind with plea bargain today for my case. He also won other case filed on my license suspension. Amy (Paralegal) will help you through out the case. She is very persistent and detailed about the case details. You will never go wrong for chosing Doug. Goodluck. !!” - Anil Lingutla I was charged with a DWI and resisting arrest. Knowing Mr. Wilder previously, I went with the Wilder Law Firm to help me out. Their office was able to get my resisting charge thrown out and reduced my DWI charge for me. This result and lesser sentence allows me a better opportunity to recover from the mistake I made. I appreciate Megan being so kind and patient with me during my process. I would recommend her 10/10." - Isaac Harrell After being arrested for DUI, I contacted Doug Wilder upon recommendation. Mr. Wilder and his entire staff were amazing with their professional handling of my case from start to finish. Every time I rang with questions someone answered the phone, no long waits for a return call. This was important to me considering a DUI is so stressful. Mr. Wilder and his staff not only got my case dismissed but also guided me through the process and offered utmost care. I cannot thank them enough and highly recommend the Wilder Firm." - JJ Canter
At this point, if you are not from Texas, you may be concerned about how the court system here works and whether you need to stay in the state. In many cases, you do not need to be physically present at every court hearing. An attorney can help you navigate this process and represent you without you needing to attend every single proceeding.
Texas DWI cases can involve multiple stages, including the possibility of a pretrial hearing, a trial, or negotiations for a plea deal. Your attorney will work with you to determine the best approach for your case, whether it involves fighting the charge or negotiating a lesser penalty.
Potential Penalties for DWI Charges in Texas
In Texas, the penalties for DWI are serious and can vary depending on the circumstances of your case. If you are convicted of a DWI, you may face a number of consequences, including fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, and even jail time. The severity of the penalty will depend on factors such as whether it is your first offense or if you have a previous record.
If you have a BAC over 0.15%, you may face enhanced penalties, including higher fines and longer license suspensions. For visitors, the idea of having your driver’s license suspended in a state that is not your home can be concerning, but this is a common penalty for DWI convictions.
In some cases, especially for repeat offenders or those with a particularly high BAC, the court may impose mandatory jail time. This is not always the case, and many DWI offenders do not face incarceration. However, even for a first offense, the consequences can be significant, and a conviction can impact your criminal record, your ability to drive, and other aspects of your life.
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Defenses Against DWI Charges
It’s important to know that a DWI charge is not automatically a conviction. In fact, many DWI cases are dismissed or reduced through various legal defenses. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of probable cause for the traffic stop
- Improper administration of field sobriety tests
- Errors in testing equipment or procedures
An experienced attorney will carefully examine the evidence in your case and determine whether any of these defenses can be used to your advantage. In some cases, your attorney may be able to argue that the evidence against you is insufficient, or that your rights were violated during the arrest.
One of the key elements in defending a DWI charge is the ability to challenge the procedures used by law enforcement. If any part of the process was not handled correctly, it could result in the dismissal of your case or a reduced sentence. An attorney will be able to evaluate your case and help you determine the best possible outcome.
The Role of a Texas DWI Lawyer for Visitors
If you are visiting Texas and are charged with a DWI, hiring a local attorney is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights. An attorney familiar with Texas law will know how to navigate the local court system, understand the penalties, and use the legal resources available to fight for your case.
A Texas DWI lawyer will also understand how to deal with the specific challenges you may face as a visitor. Whether it involves handling your case remotely or helping you understand the complex rules around DWI in Texas, they will be your advocate throughout the entire process. The right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Facing a DWI charge while visiting Texas can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Wilder Law Firm, we are committed to providing you with the legal representation and support you need to get through this difficult time. Our team understands the stress and confusion you may be feeling, and we are here to help you navigate the legal system with confidence.
If you have been charged with DWI in Texas, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We will work with you to understand your case, evaluate your options, and develop a strategy for the best possible outcome. Don’t let a DWI charge ruin your visit or your future. Let us help you protect your rights and achieve a successful result in your case.