McAllen DWI Lawyer

Facing DWI Charges in Texas?

Arrested for DUI or DWI in Texas? When it comes to a DWI charge, time is not on your side. Immediately following an arrest, it is important that you contact The Law Office of Carlos A. García, PLLC to learn how you should proceed. This type of conviction can drastically impact your life, both financially and professionally. In most cases, a DWI arrest leads to automatic driver's license suspension. This can greatly limit your ability to find work, get to school, and live your ordinary, everyday life.

Penalties for DWI in Texas

In the state of Texas, you are most likely to be charged with DWI (driving while intoxicated) than with DUI (driving under the influence). Whether you are charged with DWI or DUI mainly depends on your age, as well as your blood alcohol concentration at the time of arrest.

Drivers who are 21 years of age or older and who register a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more are often charged with DWI. Drivers who are under 21 years of age can be charged with DUI for any detectable amount of alcohol in their system. Whether you have been charged with DUI or DWI, our McAllen DWI defense attorney can help you.

First Offense DWI Penalties

If you are convicted for a first offense DWI, which is a Class B misdemeanor, you could face penalties that include:

• Up to 180-days in jail
• Up to $2,000 in fines
• A driver license suspension for up to 1-year
• Possible annual fees of up to $2,000 for up to 3-years

Second Offense DWI Penalties

If you are arrested for a second DWI, you could face Class A misdemeanor charges. If convicted you could face penalties that include:

• Up to 1-year in jail
• Up to $4,000 in fines
• A driver license suspension for up to 2-years
• Possible annual fees of up to $2,000 for up to 3-years
• Possible ignition interlock device installation

Third Offense DWI Penalties

If you are charged with a third DWI, it is a 3rd-Degree felony and the penalties could include:

• Up to 10-years in prison
• Up to $10,000 in fines
• A driver license suspension for up to 2-years
• Possible annual fees of up to $2,000 for up to 3-years
• Possible ignition interlock device installation

Commercial Driver DWI Defense

Commercial drivers in Texas are prohibited from driving a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04% or more. Commercial drivers face harsh penalties, such as disqualification of their CDL for a minimum of one year. If the driver was operating a vehicle placarded for hazardous materials, the disqualification can last three years. Due to these harsh penalties, it is highly recommended that you contact our McAllen DWI attorney if you have been charged with a commercial DWI.

Get a Board-Certified Lawyer on Your Side

Carlos A. García is Board-Certified in criminal law, making him an expert in criminal defense. At The Law Office of Carlos A. García, PLLC, we are prepared to fight for your fundamental rights with our years of experience and track record of success.