Understanding DWI Charges in Texas: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, you’re likely overwhelmed, scared, and full of questions. At Murphy & Baker Law Firm, we understand the gravity of a DWI charge and how it can impact your life, career, and reputation.
Here’s what you need to know about DWI offenses in Texas — and how we can help.
What Is a DWI in Texas?
Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, a person commits the offense of Driving While Intoxicated if they operate a motor vehicle in a public place while:
– Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
– Not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to the consumption of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, or a combination thereof
You don’t have to blow over the limit to be charged. Officers can rely on field sobriety tests, driving behavior, or other observations to justify the arrest.
Penalties for a First-Time DWI
A first-time DWI is typically charged as a Class B Misdemeanor, which can result in:
– Up to 180 days in jail
– Up to a $2,000 fine
– Driver’s license suspension for up to one year
– Possible Super Fine of $3000
– Mandatory DWI education programs or substance abuse evaluations
If your BAC was 0.15% or more, the charge may be enhanced to a Class A Misdemeanor, increasing the potential penalties.
Consequences Go Beyond the Courtroom
Even a first DWI arrest can have serious and lasting effects, including:
– Increased car insurance rates
– Loss of job opportunities or professional licenses
– Restrictions on travel or immigration status
– Damage to personal reputation and relationships
Why You Need a DWI Defense Attorney
The DWI process is technical and complex. From field sobriety testing and breathalyzer accuracy to police procedures and chain of custody on blood samples, every detail matters.
At Murphy & Baker Law Firm, our legal team includes former prosecutors and a former judge who understand the intricacies of DWI law and how to challenge the government’s case. We will:
– Evaluate whether the stop and arrest were lawful
– Challenge faulty field or chemical test results
– Work to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
– Negotiate for a dismissal or reduction in charges
– Represent you aggressively in court or at ALR license hearings
Act Quickly to Protect Your License
After a DWI arrest, you have just 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to try to save your driver’s license. Don’t wait — contact our office right away so we can begin building your defense.
We Fight to Protect Your Future
At Murphy & Baker Law Firm, we believe that one mistake shouldn’t define your life. If you’ve been arrested for DWI in East Texas, you need a defense team that will fight for your rights and your future.
📞 Call us today at 903-533-9000 or visit www.MurphyBaker.com to schedule your confidential consultation.
