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BP&G - Burleson, Pate & Gibson, L.L.P.
214-296-4762
A Prominent Criminal Defense Firm Serving Dallas, Fort Worth and North Texas
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Protecting Your Rights Against DWI Charges

Getting a ticket for driving while intoxicated can negatively impact the quality of your life. From hefty fines to jail time, the effects can be devastating. Depending on the level of the charge, fines can reach up to $10,000. Jail time and license suspension can both be up to two years.

At Burleson, Pate & Gibson, L.L.P., we understand the impact DWI charges can have on your life. From our offices in Dallas, we help clients in the Dallas/Fort Worth area protect their rights when they face the potentially devastating effects of a DWI charge.

Understanding The Different Offense Levels Of DWI

Facing a DWI charge can be overwhelming and frightening. You might worry about how your friends and family will react if they find out. You likely wonder what type of penalties you will face or have other questions. The answer to this depends largely on the level of the offense. The different penalties, according to their crime class include:

  • A first DWI offense with a blood alcohol concentration less than 0.15 will likely be a class B misdemeanor with a fine up to $2,000, jail time up to 180 days and license suspension between 90 and 365 days.
  • A first offense with a blood alcohol concentration at or over 0.15 will be a class A misdemeanor resulting in a fine up to $4,000, jail time up to one year and license suspension between 90 and 365 days.
  • A second DWI offense is a class A misdemeanor with fines up to $4,000, up to 265 days in jail and license suspension up to two years.
  • A third DWI offense is a third-degree felony that could result in fines up to $10,000, a prison term of two to 10 years and license suspension up to two years.
  • When a DWI results in serious bodily injury or death, the charge will either be a third- or second-degree felony with a fine up to $10,000, a prison term up to 10 years and license suspension up to two years.

Commercial vehicle drivers have stricter regulations associated with DWI charges. Their licensing is regulated by the federal government rather than the state. Conviction of a DWI charge for commercial drivers will result in losing their CDL license for one to three years.

Discuss Your Options With An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

Whatever charge you face, our experienced criminal defense lawyers are prepared to fight relentlessly for your rights. We will investigate your case, identify the prosecution’s weaknesses and use them to your benefit. Some aspects we might be able to challenge include the Breathalyzer or blood test or the arresting officer’s reason for pulling you over.

Contact our Dallas offices today to see how we can help you. Call 214-296-4762 or email us today. We care about your future, and we will fight to protect it.