It could happen to anyone. A night out for a few drinks turns into a serious situation after being stopped by police. Even if you've had only a drink or two and are sure your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is below the legal limit, you may be deemed “impaired” if you happen to fail a field sobriety test or breath test.
Being charged with a DWI in Texas can have a number of legal and financial consequences that could last for months, and possibly years, after an arrest.
Once a police officer determines that you have been driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08 or higher, you will likely be arrested and booked. You will then likely be summoned to court on a specific date, where evidence could be brought against you before a judge.
Before appearing in court, it's critical that you consult with an experienced Texas DWI defense attorney who can help you fight the charges.
What are the financial consequences?
If you are convicted of DWI in Texas, the penalties can be harsh, depending how many previous convictions you have received and other circumstances. These include:
- First-time offenders could be fined up to $2,000 and lose their driver's license for up to one year.
- Second-time offenders could be fined up to $4,000 and lose their driver's license for up to two years.
- Third-time offenders could be fined at $10,000 and lose their driver's license for up to two years.
In addition, those convicted of DWI would have spend a great deal of money before and after getting their driving privileges back. This includes:
- Legal fees – not including attorney fees
- Rehabilitation and alcohol education fees
- Cost of transportation if you can't drive
- Driving class and drunk driving school fees
- SR-22 insurance – which cost more than other insurance policies, is required to reinstate your license and must be purchased for two years
- License reinstatement fees
- An annual driver's license retention fee of between $1,000 and $2,000 for three years
- Vehicle modification costs – including the installation of an ignition interlock device
Avoid further troubles. Contact a DWI defense lawyer today
If you have been arrested for DWI, you will likely have to pay other unavoidable expenses, such as vehicle towing and impounding and court fees. However, if your DWI conviction was based on inconsistent evidence or a faulty breath test, you may have a strong legal defense.
Either way, it's best to discuss your matter with an attorney at Amanda Webb – DWI Lawyer. She possesses a wealth of legal knowledge and real courtroom experience helping people convicted appeal their DWI charge and avoid a slew of further legal and financial challenges.
Don't wait. Contact us today to discuss your legal options.