How a Skilled DWI Defense Lawyer Can Help You in Fort Bend County

A DWI is a serious offense in Texas, especially if you have more than one conviction. Luckily, if you are charged with a DWI in Fort Bend County, representation is available to you. You should be aware of how a skilled DWI defense lawyer can help you in Fort Bend County.

Whether you are a minor or an adult, at Segura and Kiatta, we can help you fight DWI charges. Sometimes, our representation means getting your suspended license back, and other times, it means avoiding lengthy jail sentences. Whatever your situation is, we are ready to help you move forward and get your life back on track.

What Is a DWI in Texas?

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas is when a person operates a motor vehicle, whether a car, boat, or airplane, while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, prescription medications, or a combination of any of these. If you are suspected of driving under the influence, an officer will likely pull you over and conduct a field sobriety test or a chemical test to detect your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

Texas DWI Laws

Because driving while intoxicated impairs your balance, motor functions, and concentration, the laws that govern this offense are severe. While many DWI cases do not involve accidents, some do and can cause serious injury. In one example, a Sugar Land man caused a crash on West Airport Blvd because he was driving recklessly. His crash resulted in a DWI conviction, where his sentence was a Class B Misdemeanor.

In Texas, the illegal BAC is 0.08 for adults, and any amount of alcohol is illegal if the driver is under 21 years of age. An officer may also conduct a field sobriety test to determine impaired driving. If you reject a BAC test, you may have your license automatically suspended, which is a different charge from the original DWI.

DWI Penalties

Most DWI charges are Class B misdemeanors unless an accident involves serious bodily injury, death, there was a minor in the vehicle, or if the defendant has previous convictions. It is also important to understand that under Texas law, your DWI charges may vary depending on whether it is your first or subsequent offense. Specifically, the penalty schedule is listed below:

First offense

• Jail Time: Up to 180 days with three mandatory days in jail
• Fines: Up to $2,000

Second offense

• Jail Time: One month to a year
• Fines: Up to $4,000

Third offense

• Jail Time: Two to ten years
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Minor penalties

• Community Service: 20-40 hours
• Fines: Up to $500
• Mandatory DWI training

DWI felonies are often charged as either second or third-degree felonies, depending on the crime. For instance, if the defendant accidentally kills a person because they were driving impaired, it is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in prison. On the other hand, driving with a minor under 15 is a third-degree felony punishable by 2-10 years in prison.

Additional DWI Consequences

While paying fines and spending time in jail are harsh consequences by themselves, there are other consequences for being convicted of a DWI. For example, you may have to install an ignition interlock device and have your license suspended.

Further, because a DWI is a criminal offense, it may appear on your permanent record. A DWI felony on your record means losing your voting rights or ability to carry a weapon, and a misdemeanor offense on your record could impede your ability to find employment and obtain housing, professional licenses, or educational opportunities.

How a DWI Defense Lawyer Can Help

Your lawyer is an invaluable resource if you are facing DWI charges. Your lawyer may be able to negotiate your fines or sentence if you are facing jail time, or even get your case dismissed. If you are a first-time offender, a skilled lawyer may help you go through DWI court, which is less severe than county court.

If your case goes through DWI court, you may be able to avoid jail time and instead enroll in a DWI diversion program or enter a probation plea. You will need an attorney to enter into a contract with the DWI court for either of these options.

FAQs

Q: How Much Are DWI Lawyers in Texas?

A: The cost of DWI lawyers varies in Texas. However, in many cases, the cost of a DWI lawyer is worth it if you hope to get your charges dismissed before they turn into a conviction. Your DWI lawyer may charge you based on the severity of your case and their own experience. More experienced lawyers may have higher rates but may also be more successful in ensuring positive outcomes.

Q: What Makes a Good Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: A good criminal defense attorney is one who listens to their clients, thoroughly investigates their clients’ cases, and has a solid understanding and knowledge of criminal laws. A good criminal defense attorney will also have exceptional negotiation skills, as most case outcomes rest on the defense attorney’s ability to negotiate a lighter sentence or dismissal of their client’s case.

Q: Who Is the DA for Fort Bend County?

A: The District Attorney or DA for Fort Bend County is Brian Middleton. The District Attorney for a given county serves as the prosecutor on behalf of the government. Their primary role is to pursue justice, which usually involves the charge, sentencing, and conviction of the defendant. This is why it is important to hire an attorney to defend you in criminal cases.

Q: How Do I Fight a DUI Without a Lawyer?

A: While you can fight a DUI without a lawyer, it is recommended that you hire one instead, especially if it is your second or subsequent offense. Your lawyer can build a solid case to defend you based on their experience, knowledge, and careful investigation of your case.  Moreover, without a lawyer, you will need to know how to file the appropriate paperwork, understand DWI laws, and negotiate your sentence on your own.

Contact Segura and Kiatta Today

Do not hesitate to contact a skilled lawyer today if you are facing DWI charges. At Segura and Kiatta, we have been successful in helping our clients get their DWI cases dismissed and reducing their charges. You have rights, and we are here to protect and defend those rights.