Bellaire Felony DWI Lawyer

Experienced Felony DWI Attorney in Bellaire, TX

Under Texas law, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious crime. You can expect to face serious consequences, even at the misdemeanor level. If you are facing more serious charges for DWI in Harris County or the surrounding areas, reach out to the Bellaire felony DWI lawyers at Segura & Kiatta to help you through your case. Our Bellaire DWI lawyer has experience handling all types of criminal charges under Texas law, and we are confident we can help you.

Felony DWIs in Texas

A DWI charge can lead to serious injuries and other damages, making it a dangerous crime. In recent years, Harris County has reported an average of 187 DWI fatalities per year, and 963 people died in one year in Texas from drunk driving. This equates to one death in Texas due to DWI-related accidents every nine hours and six minutes. In 2023, Texas was ranked as the third-worst state for drunk driving.

Even if a DWI does not result in a fatal accident, drunk drivers still pose a serious risk to themselves, others around them, and society at large. That is why Texas imposes strict misdemeanor and felony DWI laws. You can expect to face serious charges at every level.

A first-offense DWI is punishable by fines, time in jail, and loss of license. Furthermore, third and subsequent offenses are charged as felonies. Felony DWIs can result in the penalties listed below:

• Up to $10,000 in fines
• Up to a two-year license suspension
• Up to 10 years in jail
• Installation of ignition interlock device (IID)

Additionally, there are aggravating factors that can turn a misdemeanor DWI into a felony offense. Aggravating factors that lead to felony DWI penalties include:

• Blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15% or higher
• Causing serious harm or injury to another party while driving impaired
• Committing manslaughter while driving impaired
• Driving under the influence with a minor who is under 15 years old

It is highly recommended that you secure legal representation from a Bellaire felony DWI attorney if you are facing felony DWI penalties. They can help you form a sound legal defense that is personalized to your case.

Work with a Bellaire Felony DWI Attorney You Can Trust

With the right Bellaire felony DWI lawyer, it is possible to build a strong criminal defense against your charges, but it can be challenging. It’s recommended that you hire a local DWI lawyer to help you understand your legal rights and defense options. For the past two decades, Segura & Kiatta has been representing Texans throughout Fort Bend and Harris Counties.

Our knowledge is rooted deeply in Texas criminal law, and we have experience working in every district court throughout the state. You can count on us to advocate for your freedom and provide the confidential and compassionate legal representation you deserve. We have built a stellar reputation over the years and have received distinguished honors for our attorneys and our practice, including those listed below:

• Board certification with the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
• Houston’s Top Lawyers designation
• AV-Preeminent peer rating on the Martindale-Hubbell Directory

Whether you are facing felony charges through the Harris County District Court, located on San Jacinto Street in Houston, or misdemeanors through the Harris County Criminal Courts at Law on Franklin Street in Houston, the legal team at Segura & Kiatta can assist you. We have experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers available to represent you. We are here for our clients 24/7.

FAQs

When Is DWI a Misdemeanor Under Texas Law?

A DWI is a misdemeanor under Texas law for first and second offenses, unless there is an aggravating factor that escalates the charge. If you are facing a felony DWI, you can hire a felony DWI lawyer to learn if getting your charges and penalties reduced is an option in your situation.

Is It Difficult to Defend Against DWI Charges in Bellaire?

Yes, it’s difficult to defend against DWI charges in Bellaire. Impaired driving is prosecuted harshly under Texas law, and felony offenses carry the most severe penalties. A successful defense typically involves challenging the validity of the case against you or the legality of your arrest and subsequent processing. Other common defenses include lack of probable cause, rising BAC, and violations of constitutional rights.

How Long Can I Go to Jail for Felony DWI in Bellaire?

You can go to jail for up to two years for a felony DWI in Bellaire. Aggravating factors, though, or a third offense, can result in a sentence of up to 10 years. It is possible to avoid your sentence in lieu of probation and other reduced sentencing options. However, it is going to be challenging to defend against felony charges successfully without the representation of an experienced Bellaire felony DWI attorney.

Can I Have a DWI Conviction in Bellaire Expunged From My Criminal Record?

No, you typically cannot expunge a DWI conviction from your criminal record in Texas. It is possible to have the charge expunged or sealed if the case is dismissed, results in an acquittal, or ends without a final conviction. Hire a felony DWI lawyer to help you understand what you can do to manage your charges or existing criminal record.

Hire a Felony DWI Lawyer to Help with Your Defensive Strategy in Bellaire

Texas has some of the most severe sentencing guidelines in the country, and felony charges are going to be even harsher. It is beneficial to seek legal representation from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who has experience with cases like yours. If you are facing charges in Harris County or the surrounding areas, you can turn to Segura & Kiatta for comprehensive legal representation you can trust.

If you are ready to discuss your case in more detail, reach out to the office to set up an appointment with a Texas criminal defense lawyer today. We are located in Sugar Land on Commerce Green Boulevard near I-69 and U.S. Route 90 Alternate.