Austin Misdemeanor DWI Lawyer

Even if this is your first or second DWI charge, you'll want to fight to have the charge dismissed. Find out how to build your defense by working with an Austin misdemeanor drunk driving lawyer.

It's a common misconception that driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a traffic offense and just a simple ticket. While this might be true in some states, in Texas, DWI is a criminal charge with very real legal penalties.

The punishment for drunk driving depends on your number of prior convictions. If this is your first or second offense, you're facing a misdemeanor charge with lighter potential penalties.

However, even with a misdemeanor DWI, you'll still want to fight to have the case dismissed. You never know when you'll be charged with a future DWI, and that one might not be so easy to defend against. Also, you're more likely to receive leniency on the first offense, whereas a repeat offender can expect to be treated more harshly.

By working with an Austin misdemeanor DWI lawyer from Hines & Holub, you can give yourself the best chance to have your charge dismissed, thereby protecting your future interests and wellbeing.

Why Fight a First or Second DWI Offense?

There are a number of reasons why you should never simply admit guilt to drunk driving. While not the only reasons, the legal penalties should be motivation enough:

• • First DWI - Class B misdemeanor, up to 180 days in jail, fine up to $2,000, one-year drivers license suspension

• • Second DWI - Class A misdemeanor, up to one year in jail, fine up to $4,000, two-year drivers license suspension

• • BAC Above .15 Percent - Class A misdemeanor, up to one year in jail, fine up to $4,000

With the third offense, DWI becomes a felony and carries the possibility for extended imprisonment and even more expensive fines. If you admit guilt to DWI without challenging the charge, you put yourself one step closer to a future felony.

Even beyond the legal punishments, a DWI conviction can cost you your job, reputation, drivers license, and future opportunities. You might be able to avoid all of this by retaining an experienced Austin misdemeanor DWI attorney to fight your charge.

Defending Against a First or Second DWI

A compelling defense is the only way to protect your future, freedom, finances, and driving privileges.

Even if you were forced to undergo a blood draw during a No Refusal Weekend, there might still be a way to beat your drunk driving charge. For example, the officers might have committed a procedural error that could get the evidence ruled inadmissible in court.

Breathalyzers and field sobriety tests aren't foolproof, either. Our firm knows how to investigate a DWI arrest, and we can find the defense you need for the best chance to overcome your charge.