Mcallen, Texas DWI Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being arrested for DWI in Mcallen, Texas can have major consequences, including fines, jail time, and loss of driving privileges. It is imperative that anyone facing a DWI charge in Texas understand what challenges they will encounter. It is crucial you seek the legal advice of an accomplished and professional DWI defense attorney immediately. Call today for a professional and free consultation.

Arrested for DWI in Mcallen, Texas?

Under Texas law, once you have been cited for violating the DWI statute, the state initiates two simultaneous, yet separate legal actions against you. The criminal action is in response to the ticket that was issued to you, while the administrative action is brought against your driver's license by the Department of Public Safety in Texas. While both actions can result in the suspension of your driving privileges, it is important to remember that there may be additional penalties to consider and each action must be handled separately.

DWI Penalties for First Time Offenders

• Time in Jail - In Mcallen, Texas, a first time DWI (DWI) offender faces time in jail of at least 72 hours, up to 6 months in jail.
• Monetary Fines - In Mcallen, Texas, fines for a first time DWI are a maximum of $2,000.00.
• Texas Driving Privileges and DWI - In Mcallen, Texas, a first time DWI (DWI) conviction results in the revocation of driving privileges for 180 days.
• Chemical Test Refusal - Refusing to submit to a test when requested by law enforcement will result in the revocation of driver's license in Texas for 180 days.
• Commercial Drivers - Commercial drivers are in violation of the DWI statute with a BAC level of 0.04. A first time DWI (driving while intoxicated) or DUI (driving under the influence) conviction will result in the loss of the commercial driver's license for 1 year, while any subsequent Texas DWI offenses will result in a lifetime loss of the CDL.
• Alcohol Evaluation - Successful completion of a DWI knowledge test and chemical assessment is required for reinstatement of driving privileges.

DWI Subsequent Offenses

Penalties are increasingly more severe for any additional DWI violations. Due to the complexity of DWI laws in Texas, you may not be aware of options and rights. This is why an assertive and experienced defense lawyer can guide you through this emotionally challenging process. Please contact a DUI / DWI defense attorney for a fast, free consultation.

Mcallen, Texas DUI Laws

In Texas, a person is legally intoxicated and may be arrested and charged with DWI with a .08 BAC level. However, a person is also considered intoxicated if impaired due to alcohol or other drugs regardless of BAC. In addition, if you are the driver or the passenger, you can be fined up to $500 for having an open alcohol container in a vehicle in Mcallen, Texas. For these reasons and more, it is imperative you seek the legal advice of an accomplished and professional DWI defense attorney immediately. Call today for a professional and free consultation.

Additional Texas DWI Costs

In addition to any fines and court costs you will have to pay, there are other charges that can really add up and cost you a lot of money. Some of the other costs may include:

• Loss of Wages - When you begin to add in the money lost by missing work, the amount really begins to add up quickly.
• Towing - Having your vehicle towed in Mcallen, Texas can be expensive.
• Vehicle Storage - After your vehicle is towed, it has to be stored somewhere, which is another additional cost.
• Auto Insurance - On top of everything else, once you do get your driver's license back, there is a good chance your monthly premium is going to be higher.

As you can see, there are quite a few "hidden costs" when it comes to getting a DWI in Mcallen, Texas.

DWI Penalties for Third Offenses

• Monetary Fines - In Mcallen, Texas, fines for a third DWI are $10,000.
• Driving Privileges - In Mcallen, Texas, a third time DWI (DWI) conviction results in the revocation of driving privileges for up to 2 years.
• Recurring Fee: - There is an annual fee of $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000 for three years to retain your driver's license
• Time in Jail - In Mcallen, Texas, a third time DUI / DWI offender faces time in jail of at least two years, up to 10 years in jail.

DUI Ignition Switch

After two or more DWI convictions in Texas within five years, you must install a special ignition switch that prevents your vehicle from being operated if you have been drinking.

DWI Penalties for Second Offenses

• Monetary Fines - In Mcallen, Texas, fines for a second DWI are a maximum of $4,000.00.
• Time in Jail - In Mcallen, Texas, a second time DWI (DWI) offender faces time in jail of at least one month, up to 1 year in jail.
• Driving Privileges - In Mcallen, Texas, a second time DWI (driving while intoxicated) or DUI (driving under the influence) conviction results in the revocation of driving privileges for up to 2 years.
• Recurring Fee: - There is an annual fee of $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000 for three years to retain your driver's license

Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.