DWI Defense Attorney in Erath & Hood Counties, TX

Protecting Your Rights, Future & Driving Privileges in Stephenville, Granbury, Somervell County, Comanche County, Parker County & Eastland County

In Texas, DWI and DUI are two separate crimes. DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated,” and DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” A DWI is for drivers over the age of 21 who are intoxicated by alcohol, while a DUI is for drivers under the age of 21 who are intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. 

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we are committed to helping our clients overcome the serious consequences of a DWI conviction. We are prepared to help you navigate the legal process and make well-informed decisions every step of the way.

Call us at (254) 355-4654 or fill out our online form for your initial consultation.

What Is the Legal Limit for Alcohol in Texas?

While the legal limit for most drivers in Texas is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08%, the legal limit for commercial drivers is .04%. If you are pulled over and have a BAC that exceeds the legal limit, you can be arrested for DWI. It is important to remember that you can still be arrested for a DWI even if your BAC is below the legal limit if the officer believes you are too impaired to operate a vehicle.

What Happens If You Get a DWI in Texas?

In Texas, DWI is a serious criminal offense. If convicted, you could face a range of legal consequences. For a first-time DWI conviction, you could face up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a driver’s license suspension of up to one year. However, if you have a BAC of .15% or higher, you could be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. An IID requires you to provide a breath sample before starting your vehicle. If you fail to provide a breath sample below the legal limit, your vehicle will not start. Additionally, the court may require you to have an IID installed in your vehicle if you are convicted of a second or subsequent DWI.

How Can a DWI Be Dismissed?

If you are facing a DWI charge in Texas, it is crucial that you get in touch with an experienced DWI defense lawyer as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we can help you build a strong defense strategy to try to get your charges reduced or dismissed. 

Several defenses can be used to fight a DWI charge, including:

• Improper stop
• Illegal search and seizure
• Inaccurate field sobriety test
• Failure to read Miranda rights
• Inaccurate breathalyzer test

How Long Does a DWI Stay on Your Record in Texas?

If you are convicted of DWI in Texas, the offense will remain on your driving record for life. This means that if you are arrested for more DWIs, the court will be able to see that you have prior convictions on your record. A DWI conviction can also impact other areas of your life, such as your ability to get a job, secure a loan, or find housing. For these reasons, it is crucial that you consult with an experienced attorney to protect your rights and future.

What to Do Following a DWI Arrest in Texas

Being arrested for a DWI can be a terrifying experience. If you are pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, it is important to remember to stay calm and remain silent—anything you say or do can be used against you in court. 

You should also be prepared to take the following steps:

• Put your car in park and turn off the ignition.
• Place your hands on the steering wheel.
• Only roll down your window when asked to by the officer.
• Provide the officer with your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration.
• Do not engage in small talk with the officer.
• If the officer asks if you have been drinking, you can politely decline to answer.
• If the officer asks you to perform a field sobriety test, you can politely decline to take the test.
• If the officer decides to arrest you, you have the right to refuse to answer any questions without an attorney present.

It is important to remember that if you refuse to take a breathalyzer test, you could face a driver’s license suspension. However, you can request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge the suspension.

Understanding the Consequences of a DWI Conviction

Facing a DWI charge can be overwhelming, and it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences that come with a conviction. In Texas, a DWI can lead to significant penalties that may affect various aspects of your life. It’s not just about fines; a DWI can impact your employment opportunities, insurance rates, and personal relationships.

Here are some potential consequences of a DWI conviction in Texas:

• Fines and Court Costs: Convictions can result in hefty fines, often exceeding $2,000 for a first offense.
• License Suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended, making it difficult to commute to work or fulfill daily responsibilities.
• Increased Insurance Rates: A DWI conviction can lead to significantly higher car insurance premiums.
• Mandatory Alcohol Education Programs: You may be required to attend educational programs or counseling sessions.
• Potential Jail Time: Depending on the severity of the offense, jail time can range from a few days to several years.

Understanding these potential repercussions is essential for making informed decisions about your defense. At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we are dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and protect your rights. Our experienced legal team will work tirelessly to build a strong defense tailored to your unique situation.

Don't let a DWI charge dictate your future. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you explore your options.

How Our Firm Can Help

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we understand that facing a DWI charge can be overwhelming. That is why we are here to provide you with the strong legal representation you deserve. Our team will help you navigate the legal process and make well-informed decisions every step of the way. We will work hard to get your charges reduced or dismissed. If your case goes to trial, we will represent you in court and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

For your complimentary initial consultation, call us at (254) 355-4654 today to speak with our Erath County DWI wyer.