DWI Defense Attorney in El Paso 

Additionally, a person can be charged with DWI if they are “impaired to the slightest degree” by alcohol or drugs. This means that, even if a driver’s BAC is below the legal limit, they can still be charged with DWI if they are impaired in any way.

For drivers under the age of 21, the legal limit is much lower. In Texas, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system. This means that if a driver under the age of 21 has a BAC of 0.01% or higher, they can be charged with DUI/DWI.

What Are the Penalties for a DWI Conviction in Texas?

The penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas depend on the specific circumstances of the case, including the defendant’s criminal history and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of the offense. 

Generally speaking, however, the penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas are as follows:

• First Offense: A first-time DWI offense is typically a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a driver’s license suspension of up to 1 year. However, if the defendant’s BAC was 0.15% or higher, they may face enhanced penalties, including a fine of up to $4,000 and a jail sentence of up to 1 year.
• Second Offense: A second DWI offense is typically a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, and a driver’s license suspension of up to 2 years. However, if the defendant’s BAC was 0.15% or higher, they may face enhanced penalties, including a fine of up to $4,000 and a jail sentence of up to 1 year.
• Third Offense: A third DWI offense is typically a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, and a driver’s license suspension of up to 2 years. However, if the defendant’s BAC was 0.15% or higher, they may face enhanced penalties, including a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

These are just the basic penalties for a DWI conviction. In some cases, the penalties may be even more severe. For example, if a driver causes an accident that results in serious bodily injury or death, they may face felony DWI charges and enhanced penalties.

Other potential penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas include:

• Community service
• Probation
• Ignition interlock device installation
• Mandatory alcohol education/treatment
• And more

How Can a DWI Defense Lawyer Help Me?

If you have been arrested for DWI in Texas, you are likely facing serious criminal charges.

Fortunately, you do not have to face these charges alone. An experienced DWI defense lawyer in El Paso can help you understand your rights and options and work to build a strong defense on your behalf. At Setra Law Firm, we are committed to providing the personalized legal solutions you need and the aggressive representation you deserve.

When you choose our firm, you can expect:

• Compassionate, one-on-one attention: We are a small firm dedicated to providing the highest level of legal service. When you choose us, you will work directly with our experienced attorney throughout the entire process.
• Customized legal strategies: We understand that no two cases are the same. That is why we take the time to get to know you and your situation and develop a legal strategy tailored to your unique needs and goals.
• Aggressive representation: We are unafraid to stand up to the prosecution and fight for your rights. Our attorney is a skilled litigator who is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
• Accessible, responsive communication: We are here to answer your questions and address your concerns. 

Our El Paso DWI defense attorney is passionate about helping people like you. We know what is at stake and are prepared to go the extra mile to protect your rights, future, and freedom.