Penalties and Ranges of Punishment for DWI Offenses

San Antonio DWI Penalties

You Need a San Antonio DWI Lawyer

A driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge is not to be taken lightly. DWI offenses include everything from an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle to intoxication manslaughter. While all cases can negatively impact your life, there are others that can carry significant penalties. For this reason, it's important you understand the penalties for the various DWI offenses.

When you have been accused of drunk driving, the most important step you can take is get defense as soon as possible. There are numerous defenses to DWI charges, and Attorney Guillermo Lara can help you take action against them. Find out more in a free consultation!

What Am I Facing For a Drunk Driving Charge?

Under Texas law, DWI is not taken lightly. Prosecutors try and punish to the fullest extent of the law when DWI cases come across their plate, and with your rights and future on the line, you need aggressive defense now.

  • Penalties for DWI offenses can include, but are not limited to:
  • Suspension of driver's license
  • Mandates for longer driver's license suspension
  • Massive fines and surcharges
  • Annual fee to keep your license
  • Community service
  • Imprisonment
  • DWI education and intervention programs
  • Probation
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device
  • Loss of occupational license

Punishment differs for each case. A minor charged with drunk driving may have his or her driver's license revoked and pay a $500 fine while an adult may serve jail time and pay a $2,000 fine for the first offense. In addition, an adult may be subjected to DWI intervention or education programs and pay an annual surcharge to keep his or her driver's license. Driving under the influence of either alcohol or drugs can cost you more than money. By allowing our San Antonio criminal defense attorney to help you, you may have an increased chance of avoiding a DWI charge altogether.

Fight Back When Your Freedom Is On the Line

Beyond fines and jail time, your criminal record may also be affected. Intoxication manslaughter is classified as a second-degree felony, making it one of the worst charges you can be prosecuted for as it involves a death. Not only may you serve a long prison sentence, but your reputation may also take a blow. Attorney Lara is well aware of the negative impact a DWI charge can have on your future. Knowing this, he does everything in his power to help defend your rights.

Having handled hundreds of criminal law cases, he knows the exact steps to take and who to talk to when he needs answers. As a skilled criminal defense lawyer, he gathers hard evidence, visits the scene of the crime, requests public records, files motions, and consults with experts if necessary. You can rest assured knowing he's determined to secure your freedom.

Call our San Antonio DWI lawyer to receive aggressive representation.