Is It Worth Fighting a DWI

Last Updated on July 17, 2025 by Beltz Law Group

Why a DWI Charge in Texas Demands a Strong Defense: Protecting Your Future

Being charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas is a serious matter with far-reaching consequences that can profoundly impact your life, freedom, and future. It’s not just a simple traffic ticket; it’s a criminal offense that requires immediate and strategic attention. At the Beltz Law Group, we understand the gravity of these charges and are committed to defending your rights vigorously in North Texas.

The Stiff Penalties of a Texas DWI Conviction

Texas has some of the toughest DWI laws in the nation. The punishment you face depends largely on whether it’s your first offense and the specific circumstances of the arrest (e.g., blood alcohol content (BAC), presence of an open container, or an accident). Here’s a general overview of the punishment ranges for different levels of DWI charges:

First-Offense DWI (Class B Misdemeanor):

• Fines: Up to $2,000.
• Jail Time: 3 to 180 days.
• License Suspension: 90 days to 1 year.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Often required as a condition of bond and/or probation.
• DWI Education Program: Mandatory.
• Alcohol or Drug Abuse Assessment and Treatment: Often required.

Second-Offense DWI (Class A Misdemeanor):

• Fines: Up to $4,000.
• Jail Time: 30 days to 1 year.
• License Suspension: 180 days to 2 years.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Likely required.
• DWI Education Program & Treatment: Mandatory.

Third or More DWI Offense (Third Degree Felony):

• Fines: Up to $10,000.
• Prison Time: 2 to 10 years in a state penitentiary.
• License Suspension: 180 days to 2 years.
• Annual Surcharge: An additional $1,500 or $2,000 fine for three years.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Likely required.
• DWI Education Program & Treatment: Mandatory.

Aggravating Factors: Certain factors can elevate a DWI charge to a higher level or lead to more severe penalties, even on a first offense:

• DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher: Can elevate a Class B to a Class A misdemeanor, even for a first offense.
• DWI with Child Passenger (under 15): A State Jail Felony, punishable by 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine up to $10,000.
• Intoxication Assault (DWI causing serious bodily injury to another): A Third Degree Felony.
• Intoxication Manslaughter (DWI causing death to another): A Second Degree Felony.

Beyond these direct legal consequences, a DWI conviction can lead to a criminal record, increased insurance rates, difficulty with employment or professional licensing, and social stigma.

The Indispensable Role of a DWI Defense Lawyer

Given the severe repercussions, attempting to navigate a DWI charge alone is a significant risk. This is where an experienced DWI defense attorney becomes invaluable.

How a Lawyer Can Help:

1. Challenging the Stop: An attorney will meticulously review the circumstances of your traffic stop to determine if law enforcement had reasonable suspicion or probable cause. If the stop was unlawful, any evidence gathered afterward might be suppressed.
2. Scrutinizing Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): FSTs are often subjective and prone to error. An attorney can challenge their administration, your performance, and the officer’s interpretation.
3. Contesting Chemical Test Results (Breath/Blood): There are many potential issues with breathalyzer accuracy (calibration, operator error, medical conditions) and blood draws (chain of custody, contamination, lab errors). A skilled lawyer will investigate these possibilities.
4. Protecting Your Driver’s License (ALR Hearing): When arrested for DWI, your driver’s license is subject to an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. You only have 15 days from the date of arrest to request this hearing. An attorney can represent you at this critical hearing, potentially preventing or minimizing your license suspension.
5. Negotiating with Prosecutors: An experienced attorney understands the local courts and prosecutors. They can negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing (like probation instead of jail time), or even dismissal of the case.
6. Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will develop a robust defense strategy, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate powerfully on your behalf.
7. Explaining Your Rights: From the moment of arrest through trial, your attorney will ensure you understand your rights and are not coerced into making statements or decisions that could harm your case.

Beltz Law Group: Your Trusted DWI Defense in North Texas

At the Beltz Law Group, we understand that a DWI charge is more than just a legal problem; it’s a personal crisis. Our experienced criminal defense lawyers in North Texas are dedicated to providing aggressive and strategic representation to protect your rights, your driver’s license, and your future.

We meticulously analyze every detail of your case, from the initial stop to the chemical tests, to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. We are committed to exploring every possible defense strategy, whether that involves challenging procedures, negotiating a favorable plea, or fiercely advocating for you in court.

Don’t let a DWI charge define your future. If you or a loved one has been charged with DWI in Texas, contact the Beltz Law Group today. We are here to ensure your rights are protected and to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.