Don’t Let A DWI Charge Destroy Everything You Have Worked For
Getting a driving while intoxicated (DWI) conviction impacts more than just your criminal record. It can permeate many other areas of your life, even as a first-time offender. Aside from losing your license and having a criminal record, a DWI conviction can increase your insurance rates and prevent you from getting jobs or obtaining loans.
The best way to avoid lifelong consequences is to work with an experienced DWI attorney. Our lawyers at Biebas and Riley Attorneys at Law PLLC have years of experience helping DWI clients fight their charges in Belton, Killeen and Temple and throughout Bell County. You can trust their deep understanding of local laws and regulations to provide accurate and results-driven legal representation.
Texas Takes DWI Charges Seriously
In Texas, DWI penalties become harsher when you have multiple convictions on your record. For a first-time offender, you may face a fine of up to $2,000 and 180 days in county jail. If there are other aggravating factors, including underage drinking, having a minor in your car or causing injury to another, you may face harsher charges. If your breath or blood test shows a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15% or higher, then you face a fine of up to $2,000 and one year in county jail.
Aside from fines and jail time, your license can be suspended and you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your car. After you receive notice of your license suspension, you have 15 days to request a hearing challenging the suspension. If you do not request a hearing, then an administrative license revocation will start 40 days after you receive the notice.
To regain your driving privileges, you pay a reinstatement fee. If you are a first-time offender, you must pay an annual fee of $1,000 for three years. In Texas, a DWI conviction stays on your record permanently. However, there is a possibility to remove it through expungement. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can increase your chances of reducing or removing the charge.
Take Action Now To Prevent Lifelong Consequences
If you have recently failed a sobriety test in Texas, don’t wait to contact an experienced local attorney. If this is your first offense, then you can avoid devastating consequences. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at 254-781-5914 or reach out to us online. We are available 24/7 for urgent criminal consultations.