Southlake Texas Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Attorneys

Serving Southlake and surrounding areas since 1993

In the Lone Star State, someone is killed or injured in a motor vehicle accident involving alcohol every twenty minutes. Texas has stiff penalties for those motorists convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI). All drivers should understand the law, the consequences of violating the law, and their legal rights regarding testing and consent.

Blood alcohol concentration (BAC)

Drivers over the age of 21 years whose blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or more, or those that are mentally or physically impaired due to the consumption of alcohol, drugs — or both — may be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas. It is important to understand that your BAC does not have to be above the legal limit to be charged; demonstrating impairment is enough to be charged with DWI.

Do I have to submit to blood alcohol testing?

In Texas, as in all states, there are implied consent laws. This means that all drivers automatically give consent to alcohol testing upon receiving their drivers’ license; testing may include a breathalyzer or a blood alcohol test. If you refuse testing in Texas, your drivers’ license will be suspended for 180 days at the time of your first offense. For second and third offenses, the license is suspended for two years.

Texas penalties for DWI

Texas is tough on driving while intoxicated and the penalties depend upon whether there are any previous convictions. Penalties for DWI are as follows, based on each DWI offense:

DWI First Offense

• Loss of drivers’ license for up to one year
• Fine of up to $2,000
• Jail time of three to 180 days
• To retain drivers’ license, must pay annual fee of $1,000 to $2,000 for three years

Second DWI Offense

• Loss of driver’s license for up to two years
• Fine of up to $4,000
• Jail time of one month to one year
• To retain drivers’ license, must pay annual fee of $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000 for three years

Third DWI Offense

• Loss of drivers’ license for up to two years
• Fine of $10,000
• Minimum two years of jail time; maximum 10 years
• To retain drivers’ license, must pay annual fee of $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000 for three years

Charged with driving while intoxicated? Our Southlake DWI lawyers can help

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious crime with serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been charged with DWI, do not panic. Let us help. The experienced Southlake DWI attorneys at The Law Offices of Kyle Whitaker provide skilled representation to those facing DWI charges – advocating on your behalf, protecting your rights, and securing the best possible outcome in your case. Don’t delay – contact our office today at 817-332-7703 or online to arrange for a free consultation to discuss your case.