Allen DWI Defense Attorney

DWI Lawyer Serving Allen, Texas

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Allen and throughout the state of Texas. Due to the state's commitment to maintaining road safety and protecting citizens from dangerous drivers, people who are accused of driving after drinking alcohol or using drugs are likely to face criminal charges, and convictions can result in serious penalties.

For those who are facing DWI charges, representation by a skilled criminal defense attorney is crucial. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we work to defend drivers who are accused of intoxicated driving, helping them determine their best options for avoiding convictions and protecting their driving privileges.

Potential Penalties for DWI in Texas

The specific consequences of a DWI conviction will depend on the nature of the offense and whether a person has any previous convictions. Potential charges may include:

First-Time DWI

A first DWI offense in Texas is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor. However, even if this may seem like a minor offense, the penalties can be severe, including a fine of up to $2,000, jail time ranging from three days to six months, and the possibility of a driver's license suspension for up to two years. Offenders may also be required to attend DWI education programs, and they could face additional charges based on the circumstances of their arrest.

Second or Subsequent DWI

Repeat DWI offenses are likely to lead to increased penalties. A second DWI charge is considered a Class A misdemeanor, with potential penalties including fines up to $4,000, jail time of one month to one year, and license suspension for up to two years. For third and subsequent offenses, the classification escalates to a third-degree felony, carrying fines up to $10,000, as much as 10 years in prison, and a two-year license suspension.

DWI With a Child Passenger

Driving while intoxicated with a child passenger under the age of 15 is a state jail felony in Texas. People convicted of this offense may face fines of up to $10,000, jail time from 180 days to two years, and the requirement to complete 1,000 hours of community service.

Underage DUI

Texas enforces a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. People under the age of 21 who drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system may face DUI charges. Penalties can include fines of up to $500, as many as 40 hours of community service, requirements to take alcohol education programs, and license suspension for up to six months.

Intoxication Assault

When an impaired driver causes serious bodily injury to another person, they may face felony charges. This offense is known as intoxication assault, and it is a third-degree felony in Texas, with penalties including fines up to $10,000 and two to ten years in prison. These penalties are meant to address the severe consequences of impaired driving that causes others to suffer harm.

Intoxication Manslaughter

Some of the most severe DWI-related offenses involve the death of another person. A person who is accused of driving under the influence and causing someone else's death may be charged with intoxication manslaughter. This second-degree felony carries penalties including fines up to $10,000 and two to 20 years in prison. These penalties reflect the grave consequences and irreversible harm caused to victims and their family members when drivers behave unsafely and get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Contact Our Allen, Texas DWI Lawyers

If you are facing DWI charges in Allen or the surrounding areas, you do not have to navigate the legal system alone. Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. is here to provide you with legal guidance, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process. Our approach involves a thorough examination of the evidence, from field sobriety tests to chemical tests, and we will help develop a comprehensive defense strategy to avoid a criminal conviction and protect your driving privileges.

Contact us at 469-333-3333 for a free consultation. We are ready to provide you with dedicated legal representation, helping you understand your rights and options while striving for the best possible outcome in your case.