It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated and every state has laws and statutes governing DWI violations:
- Texas defines intoxication as the existence of any one of these conditions:
- Not having the normal use of mental faculties, or
- Not having the normal use of physical faculties, or
- Having an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more, or
- Using one of these substances, that testing confirms:
- Alcohol
- A controlled substance
- A drug
- A dangerous drug
- A combination of 2 or more of these substances
- Any other substance found in your body
These statistics highlight an alarming situation, Texas has the highest number of alcohol-related accidents in the country. Harris County, Texas has the highest number of alcohol-related car accidents and Houston authorities are notorious for making the most DWI arrests.
Getting a DWI is a serious criminal offense that affects your life personally, financially, and professionally. The classification of the violation and any relevant information, determine the extent of these effects.
| Charge | Punishment Jail/Probation | Fine | License Suspension |
| 1st DWI Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in jail | Up to $2,000 | 90 days-1 yr |
| 2nd DWI Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail | Up to $4,000 | 180 days-4 yrs |
| 3rd Degree Felony | Ignition interlock Up to 10 years in prison | Up to $10,000 | 180 days – several years |
| Intoxication Manslaughter 2nd Degree Felony | 2 to 20 years in prison | Up to $10,000 | |
| Intoxication Assault 3rd Degree Felony | Up to 10 years in prison | Up to $10,000 | |
Your situation can alter the Texas DWI information above, which could affect or change the outcome of your case. The Texas Penal Code Title 10 deals with offenses against the public’s health, safety, and morals is a complex set of statutes.
The Texas Penal Code is sometimes broad in its application which gives proper cause to challenge the prosecutor’s application and interpretation of these laws. You will need the knowledge and experience of DWI attorneys to help you understand the challenges of drug and alcohol offenses. A DWI can be costly, both in terms of money and time and especially for a first time offender, the help of a competent experienced lawyer is invaluable. For those who are facing an additional charge, a great lawyer could mean less time incarcerated.
Did you know that a DWI case can often have more scientific evidence than a Capital Murder? Wayne Hill has completed numerous certifications and training in the areas of breath and blood testing, and continues to further his education to stay ahead of the curve.
You need the expertise of astute attorneys; you need the consummate legal services of The Hill Law Firm. Their compassion, understanding, and concern will support you throughout this difficult journey. When accused of violating the Texas DWI laws, claim your Constitutional Right to speak with an attorney and wait for the arrival of your counsel, before proceeding.
