A DWI Can Derail Your Future. Protect Your Rights.

One of the biggest misconceptions about driving while intoxicated (DWI) is that it is not a serious criminal charge. This could not be more incorrect. A charge or conviction for DWI affects more than just your driving privileges. It can affect your career, housing options, custody and visitation rights, and criminal record.

At LBD Law, we understand just how important it is to defend you against DWI charges. We have helped numerous clients in Rockwall, McKinney, Greenville and throughout Texas reach favorable outcomes to their DWI cases, including:

• Dismissed charges
• Reduced charges
• Reduced sentencing
• Alternative sentencing

Our goal is to reach the best outcome available to you. This way, you can move on from a DWI and move forward with your life.

Is It Possible To Defend Against A DWI?

There is no such thing as an open-and-shut DWI case. Even in circumstances where a police officer measures a blood alcohol content (BAC) over the legal limit, we can still defend you. We can often demonstrate that:

• The police officer administered the field sobriety tests or the breathalyzer incorrectly
• The police officer did not follow the correct procedures
• The police officer misinterpreted the field sobriety tests
• The breathalyzer was inaccurate
• You were sober when you began driving, but your BAC increased without your knowledge

Even if the evidence against you seems insurmountable, do not give up. LBD Law may still be able to successfully defend you against criminal charges.

What Clients Ask About DWI In Texas

Many of our clients come to us confused about their rights and worried about what happens next. When you face DWI charges in Texas, you need clear, straightforward answers about your situation. Below, we have addressed the most common questions our clients ask us.

What is the DWI blood alcohol limit in Texas?

In Texas, the legal BAC limit is .08% for most drivers aged 21 and over. For commercial drivers, the limit is stricter at .04%. Texas also has a zero tolerance policy for drivers under 21, as any detectable amount of alcohol can result in charges. However, even if your BAC is under these limits, officers can still arrest you if they believe alcohol has affected your ability to drive safely.

What happens if you refuse a breathalyzer test in Texas?

While you have the right to refuse a breathalyzer test, this decision comes with automatic penalties under the state’s implied consent laws. For your first refusal, the state will suspend your driver’s license automatically for 180 days. If you have prior refusals or DWI convictions, the suspension could last for up to two years. This administrative penalty happens regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted of DWI. Law enforcement may also still seek a warrant from a judge to take a blood sample from you. The decision to refuse is not always helpful or harmful to your case. It depends on your specific situation and whether police pursue additional evidence.

Can I get a hardship license after a DWI suspension?

Yes, you can apply for a hardship license, also known as an occupational license, to drive to important places, such as your job or school, after a DWI suspension. For first-time offenses, you have to wait 30 days before obtaining a license, while repeat offenses require longer waiting periods. However, if you refused a chemical test when pulled over, you cannot get a hardship license at all and must wait until your full suspension ends.

Protect Yourself From DWI Charges

If you face a DWI, work with LBD Law now to protect your future. Schedule an initial consultation by calling us at 214-304-6640 or you can send us an email. We have three convenient locations in Greenville, McKinney and Rockwall.