Although Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) are two different crimes in Texas, and an experienced lawyer can help you mitigate some of the serious consequences of a conviction of either crime.
DUI
In Texas, a DUI conviction is a Class C misdemeanor, and occurs when someone under the age of 21 has any detectable amount of alcohol in his or her system. For first-time offenders, punishment includes a fine of up to $500, alcohol education classes, license suspension for up to 180 days, and community service. For multiple offenders, the punishment may include up to 180 days of jail time, a fine of up to $2,000, and a two year license suspension.
DWI
DWI occurs when a person is operating any vehicle in public while intoxicated. Currently, you are legally intoxicated if your blood alcohol concentration is .08 or higher. For other drugs, you are legally intoxicated if you have lost use of your physical or mental faculties. In Texas, a DWI conviction is a Class B misdemeanor, and punishment includes jail time ranging from 72 hours to 180 days and a possible fine of up to $2,000, as well as a license suspension for up to 180 days.
For multiple DWI convictions, the punishments increase significantly. A second DWI conviction is a Class A misdemeanor, and punishment includes jail time ranging from 30 days to one year and a possible fine of up to $4,000, as well as a one to two year license suspension. A third DWI conviction is a Third Degree felony, and punishment includes jail time ranging from two to ten years and a possible fine of up to $10,000, as well as a license suspension for up to two years.
License Revocation
If you or someone in your family is arrested for a DWI or DUI, or your child is issued a citation charging him or her with a DUI offense, you only have 15 days to request an administrative license revocation hearing. Otherwise, you face losing your license before your trial even begins. This administrative hearing can prove helpful, as it gives us the opportunity to hear the evidence the prosecution has against you before your trial so we can begin preparing your defense.
At the Law Office of Judy Harris Meeh, P.C., we understand the challenges you or your family member may face when charged with a DWI or DUI, and the problems a conviction can cause in your day-to-day life. To find out how we can begin preparing your defense, contact us today for a free initial consultation.
