DWI Attorney in Houston

DWI Convictions

In Texas, DWI is defined as a person operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated in a public place. "Intoxicated" means a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more or not having "normal" use of your physical or mental faculties. At Stradley, Chernoff & Alford, we know that being charged with any sort of DWI offense can be tough on the individual. An experienced Houston DWI lawyer can work with you towards the goal of a successful outcome in your individual case.

For a first DWI offense you may be fined up to $2,000 with time spent in the county jail. Penalties increase each time you are found guilty of a DWI. A third conviction is a felony resulting in jail time from 2 to 10 years and up to $10,000 in fines. Special circumstances, such as causing serious bodily harm to another, will bring about stiffer penalties.

Have you been arrested for DWI?

If you are arrested for DWI, you will face the criminal charges against you and a civil action called an Administrative License Revocation, or ALR. The ALR comes about if you refuse to take breath or blood tests , or if you fail a test. Your license will be suspended and you have only 15 days to request a hearing on the matter. The criminal case against you will proceed separately from the ALR, but in both cases we may be of great service to you.

An arrest for DWI can be costly for you and your family in terms of fines, driver's license suspension and other penalties. Losing driving privileges can affect your ability to earn wages, go to school and live your daily life. A DWI conviction remains on your record and can affect future employment. There are effective actions, however, that can be taken in your defense. At times, probation can be negotiated with the prosecutors or your case even dismissed. In certain circumstances, agreements can be reached to allow you to drive under specific conditions. You do have rights and we can work with you to ensure those rights are protected.

Contact a DWI attorney in Houston if you or a loved one face DWI charges and would like professional legal assistance.