DWI

DEFENDING TRAVIS COUNTY RESIDENTS IN DWI CASES

You’ve most likely heard the phrase, “Drive sober or get pulled over.” This isn’t just a catchy slogan—it’s some of the sagest advice you’ll ever receive. If you get pulled over and charged with a DWI, or a Driving While Intoxicated charge, the ramifications can be pretty far-reaching.

In Texas, you are legally intoxicated if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, you’re technically breaking the law as soon as alcohol or any controlled substances start to affect your driving, boating, or flying abilities.

The penalties for DWI vary depending on how many times you’ve committed this offense. Let’s take a look at the penalties you can incur as a first-time, second-time, and third-time offender.

• First Offense – First-time DWI offenders in Texas can face up to $2,000 in fines, 180 days in jail with three mandatory days upon conviction, and the loss of their driver’s license for up to a year.

• Second Offense – Second-time DWI offenders in Texas can face up to $4,000 in fines, one month to a year in jail upon conviction, and the loss of their driver’s license for up to two years.

• Third Offense – Third-time DWI offenders in Texas can face a maximum $10,000 fine, two to 10 years in prison, and the loss of their driver’s license for up to two years.

None of the fines mentioned above include an assessed state fine of either $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 upon sentencing.

Naturally, the penalties get much more serious if there is a child in the car at the time of the offense. For drunk driving with a child passenger charges, you’ll be hit with an additional $10,000 fine, a child endangerment charge (if the child is under 15 years old), an additional 180 days on your license suspension, and a jail sentence of up to two years.

Last but not least, Texas forbids the carrying of an open container in your vehicle whether you’re intoxicated or not.

In the wake of a DWI charge, you’ll need effective legal counsel who can help you fight for a fair sentence. Kimbrough Legal provides Travis County residents with fierce legal representation and a guiding hand throughout DWI proceedings. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.