As you face your DWI major questions loom about what this may mean for you. Will you go to jail? Can you keep your driver’s license? Will fines be imposed? While it is true that Texas treats your first DWI as less serious than repeat offenses it is still a Class B Misdemeanor with mandatory jail time. If convicted, you will be jailed for at least 72 hours, 6 days if caught with an open container, and possibly up to 6 months. You will also be fined up to $2,000 with additional fees added on for the next three years to maintain your driver’s license. In addition your license may be suspended for 90 days to a year. Even worse, you can be charged with a felony on your first offense if a child was present in your vehicle.
DWI Penalties in Texas
1st Offense
- A fine up to $2,000.
- Incarceration for 3 days, up to180 days.
- Suspension of your license for up to 2 years.
- Additional fees up to $2,000 for the next 3 years to keep your license.
- DWI intervention or education program.
- Possible ignition interlock device installed on your automobile at your expense .
2nd Offense
- A fine up to $4,000.
- Incarceration between 1 month and 1 year.
- Suspension of your license for up to 2 years.
- Additional fees up to $2,000 for the next 3 years to keep your license.
- DWI intervention or education program.
- Possible ignition interlock device installed on your automobile at your expense.
3rd Offense
- A fine up to $10,000.
- Incarceration in State prison between 2 years and 10 years.
- Suspension of your license for up to 2 years.
- Additional fees up to $2,000 for the next 3 years to keep your license.
- DWI intervention or education program.
- Possible ignition interlock device installed on your automobile at your expense.
DWI with a Child Passenger
If you are charged with a DWI while a child under the age of 15 was present in your vehicle, you face more severe penalties, even for a first offense:
- A fine up to $10,000.
- Incarceration up to 2 years.
- Suspension of your license for 180 days.
Penalties for failing or refusing a chemical test
In addition to the above penalties imposed by the Texas courts you can face other penalties for failing or refusing a chemical test (blood test or breathalyzer) known as Administrative License Revocation (ALR). These are civil penalties which are added on to whatever sentence is handed down by the courts. Refusing a chemical test carries a 180 day license suspension for first offenders, 2 years for every offense afterwards. Failing a chemical test carries a 90 day license suspension with 2 years for every offense afterwards.
Don’t Let A DWI Conviction Ruin Your Life
If the penalties listed above have you concerned don’t worry, it is not too late to obtain the representation you need to defend yourself. John L. Corn has extensive experience defending his clients in the Dallas area and knows how gain acquittals and negotiate much more lenient plea agreements. Your DWI charge does not have to be the beginning of a long nightmare of fines, jail time, or driving restrictions – call John L. Corn today.
Call The Law Office of John Lawrence Corn P.C at (214) 528-4529 for a free consultation.
The Law Office of John Lawrence Corn P.C
4054 McKinney Avenue
Suite 303
Dallas, Texas 75204
Office: 214-528-4529
Cell: 214-502-5183
Fax: 214-520-8191
