How Serious Is a DWI Conviction in Frisco, Texas?

Being charged with Texas Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is no laughing matter. According to Texas Penal Code Section 49.04, a person commits an offense of DWI if they operate a motor vehicle on a public road while intoxicated. One can prove intoxication by either having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08 or higher or by showing that the person lost the normal use of mental or physical faculties through the consumption of alcohol or drugs.

If you are facing a DWI charge, you require a Frisco DWI lawyer. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you protect your rights and limit the damage a conviction will cause. First-time or repeat offender, Texas law is not kind to DWI defendants. Having a local DWI attorney in Frisco raises your chances of a better outcome.

Penalties You Need to Know

• First Offense – Class B Misdemeanor

This is if your BAC is below 0.15. Consequences are 180 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, and a suspension of license. You can be required to have an ignition interlock device installed. An open container increases the minimum jail time to six days.

• High BAC – Class A Misdemeanor

If your BAC was 0.15 or higher, the crime is a Class A misdemeanor. You are sentenced to up to one year in prison, fined up to $6,000, and your license is suspended for longer. This is still a first offender, but was treated a lot worse.

• Second Offense – Repeat DWI

This is also a Class A misdemeanor, but more serious in penalties. You can be sentenced to jail from 30 days to 1 year, fined up to $4,500, and license suspended for up to 2 years. The courts also increase supervision and interlock requirements.

A third offense is a third-degree felony. Expect two to ten years in state prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and extended license suspension. A felony DWI stays on your record permanently and affects nearly every area of your life.

• DWI with a Child Passenger: State Jail Felony

DWI with a child under the age of 15 in your car is a standalone felony. You might be imprisoned for 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and pay up to $10,000 in fines. The offense also brings added attention from family services.

Intoxication Assault or Manslaughter: Life-Changing Felony Charges:

If your DWI leads to severe injury or death, you may be charged with intoxication manslaughter or intoxication assault. Assault is a third-degree felony; manslaughter is a second-degree felony and is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. These offenses have lifetime consequences. If you are charged with one of these, you need to have a legal team that can fight hard.

This is where a good lawyer can assist. Firms like L and L Law Group and their lawyers know Texas DWI law and how to challenge questionable evidence, work out plea agreements, or try your case if that is what it takes. They have already worked with many clients in the Frisco area and surrounding communities, and they bring good local expertise to every case.

Bail Can Help:

After a DWI arrest, you may be required to pay bail to be released from jail. Bail costs typically depend on how serious the crime is and your past record of crimes. For major crimes, bail could run several thousand dollars. An experienced Frisco bail bond reduction attorney can compel the court to lower your bail or request a personal recognizance bond from the court. That way, you could be released without having to pay upfront in cash, giving you the time and space to work on your case.

Texas DWI laws under Penal Code Section 49.04 are severe. Even a first offense can result in jail time, fines, and license suspension. The worse the offense, the more life-changing the penalties. But with the proper Frisco DWI lawyer, you can fight back. Don't delay. Protect your future now by consulting with an honest attorney in your area and exploring your options before it's too late.