How An Attorney Can Help in a DWI Case

August 17, 2022 0 Comments

Working with a DWI law Firm can help you reduce your charges

When you’re facing DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges, having a private attorney on your side is always a good idea. Even a basic consultation with a DWI attorney can help you get a better understanding of your case and find a more preferable outcome. DWI law can be tricky to navigate. If you don’t have the knowledge of local rulings, you won’t know what’s best for you or your case. Working with an attorney gives you the tools and expertise needed to navigate DMV proceedings and court cases.

What is a DWI Charge?

According to Texas state laws, a person is legally intoxicated when their blood alcohol content reaches .08. If you are operating heavy machinery while intoxicated, you’re likely to be charged for driving while intoxicated. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a dangerous activity that leads to thousands of injuries and deaths around the world. It’s a serious offense that is punished severely in Texas. Penalties for DWIs include:

First Offense

$2000 fine
180 days in jail
One-year license suspension

Second Offense

$4000 fine
One year in jail
Two-year license suspension

Third Offense

$1000 fine
Ten years in jail
Two-year license suspension

However, the hefty fines and penalties can be reduced when you work with a knowledgeable DWI attorney.

Private DWI Attorney or Public Defender?

A DWI charge is considered a criminal charge, which means you have the right to have an attorney represent you. If you are unable to afford one, you can ask for a public defender to handle your case. However, if you can afford a private attorney, it’s almost always a better option.

Public defenders take on a lot of cases at once. This means they’ll have less time and energy to devote to your defense. You also don’t have a say in who defends you. When you hire a private attorney, however, you can choose who you work with. This way, you can ensure that your attorney is knowledgeable in local DWI laws, allowing you to get a better defense for your case.

First-Offense Plea

For most first offenses that don’t involve injury or property damage, judges are likely to offer a plea bargain. If the defendant pleads guilty to driving while intoxicated, judges typically give out the minimum penalties allowed. However, just because it’s a first offense doesn’t mean an attorney isn’t going to be helpful. A DWI attorney can successfully navigate the court process, finding more evidence to support a healthier case in your defense. With an attorney’s help, defendants can possibly get even lesser penalties than originally described. At the very least, courts recommend that you consult with an attorney before accepting the plea bargain to determine if there is more you could do to strengthen your defense.

DMV and Court Proceedings

When you face DWI charges, you’ll have court appearances and DMV proceedings to deal with. If you’re busy with work or family, this can take a heavy toll on your life. A DWI attorney can help reduce the amount of time you spend in court. Their knowledge and expertise in laws and the court process allow them to swiftly navigate each appointment. There are even some instances where, as long as you have private representation, you won’t even have to make an appearance at all. Working with an attorney helps you keep your focus on your job and family by saving you time in the courts.

Understanding DWI Charges

Working with a private DWI attorney also helps you understand your own case and the logistics behind it. When you hire a private attorney for your case, you’ll get face-to-face time with them where you can go over the details of your charges. You get the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the charges you face and their potential penalties. DWI laws can get confusing at times, and having a knowledgeable attorney available to answer your questions helps you better navigate your defense.

Tyler, Texas DWI Attorney

At the Hager Law Firm, we provide our clients with the best possible legal support available. With a DWI attorney on your side, you can often get lesser penalties and have more time to focus on your school, work, or family. We’ll work with you to understand the specifics of your case and help build a strong defense. If you’re facing DWI charges, give us a call today at (903) 466-0001 to schedule a consultation about your case.