Harris County DWI Penalties Lawyer
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is taken very seriously in Texas, and those convicted will face many harsh penalties. Even a conviction for a first offense will result in a mandatory three-day jail sentence, and sentences only increase from there. If you have been charged with this offense, it is critical that you speak with a Harris County DWI penalties lawyer. An attorney will devise a defense strategy that will give you the best chance of beating the charges.
Our Harris County DWI Penalties Lawyer Can Defend Against a First Offense
The first time a person is convicted of a DWI in Harris County, they will be sentenced to at least three days in jail. The maximum jail sentence for a first DWI offense is 180 days. If you had an open container of alcohol in the vehicle, the minimum jail sentence increases to six days. A first DWI offense will also result in a fine ranging between $100 and $2,000. Your driver’s license will also be suspended for at least 90 days and up to one year.
First offenders are eligible for probation if they have never been convicted of a felony or they have never been placed on community supervision. If you qualify for probation, you may have to perform community service, attend a victim impact panel, and complete a DWI education class.
Our Harris County DWI Penalties Lawyer Can Defend Against a Second Offense
A second DWI conviction in Harris County is classified as a class A misdemeanor. The penalties include between 30 days and one year in jail, and a maximum fine of $4,000. You will also have to install an interlock ignition device in your vehicle, after serving a driver’s license suspension between 180 days and two years. Probation is still possible for a second DWI conviction, but the requirements are more onerous. The number of community service hours usually increases, and you may still have to face a maximum 30 days in jail.
Our Harris County DWI Penalties Lawyer Can Defend Against a Third Offense
A third DWI conviction is a felony offense and the penalties are very harsh. A conviction will result in between two and ten years in state prison, and a $10,000 maximum fine. Probation is still an option in some cases after a third DWI conviction, particularly when a judge has concerns that the defendant may have a substantial problem with alcohol abuse. In these cases, completing an alcohol treatment course is sometimes a condition of probation, as is jail time.
Call Our DWI Penalties Lawyer in Harris County Today
DWI convictions come with harsh penalties, particularly for those that have previous convictions. At Ayson Law Firm, our Harris County DWI penalties lawyer can provide the strong defense you need to avoid these serious consequences and to give you the best chance of beating the charges. Call us today at 832-209-2297 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
