There are serious consequences for being convicted of driving while intoxicated in the state of Texas. Even if it is your first offense, you face driver’s license suspension, fines and mandatory jail time if you’re convicted of a DWI. However, there are defenses that an attorney can use to get the penalties reduced or the charges dismissed.
DWI Consequences
You don’t necessarily have to be convicted of a crime to be penalized for a DWI. Even if a police officer only suspects you’ve been drinking and driving, your driver’s license can be suspended for at least 90 days. However, if a DWI defense law attorney in Beaumont, Texas is able to keep you from being convicted, then your license will be reinstated.
Additionally, if you have a driver’s license and are operating a motor vehicle, your consent to submit to chemical testing is implied. If you refuse to take a test, your license can be suspended for a minimum of 90 days up to two years. This is separate from DWI charges, so even if you are successfully defended by a DWI defense law attorney, your license could still be suspended.
DWI Defenses
If you’re arrested for DWI, you need to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. Do not answer any questions, but only ask for an attorney, as is your right by law. An experienced DWI defense law attorney will usually look into the circumstances of your arrest to make sure your rights were not violated and he or she may question how the DWI tests were conducted and the accuracy of the equipment.
Even if you were driving after having a few drinks, you should contact a DWI defense law attorney to see if you can avoid a conviction. Being convicted of a DWI has serious consequences, but you may be able to avoid them by hiring an attorney.