Houston Intoxication Assault Lawyer
In the bustling city of Houston, the issue of intoxicated driving is a cause for concern. Intoxication assault is a serious offense that occurs when an individual, while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, causes serious bodily injury to another person. Due to the severity of the offense and the potential life-altering consequences for the victim, Texas law enforcement and legal authorities are stringent in handling such cases. Contact the experienced Houston intoxication assault lawyers at Ayson Law Firm for more information or assistance.
Intoxication Assault Laws & Penalties in Texas
Intoxication assault is classified as a third-degree felony under Texas law. It is punishable by severe penalties, including incarceration for 2-10 years in state prison, a fine of up to $10,000, and the suspension of the defendant’s driver’s license for up to two years. In addition, those convicted of intoxication assault may face civil lawsuits from the victims or their families to seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from the incident.
To secure a conviction for intoxication assault, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant was operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and that their actions led to the serious bodily injury of another person. “Serious bodily injury” is defined as an injury that creates a substantial risk of death or causes severe and permanent disfigurement or impairment.
One of the challenges in intoxication assault cases is determining the level of intoxication of the accused. In Texas, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. A BAC above this limit is considered evidence of intoxication. However, even if the BAC is below the legal limit, the prosecution can still argue that the defendant was impaired and present other evidence, such as field sobriety tests or witness testimony, to demonstrate that the defendant’s actions were influenced by drugs or alcohol.
Police Enforcement of Intoxication
In Houston, law enforcement agencies are committed to cracking down on intoxicated driving. The Houston Police Department, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety work together to enforce strict measures against intoxicated drivers. They employ a variety of tactics, including sobriety checkpoints and “No Refusal” weekends, during which suspected intoxicated drivers may be compelled to undergo blood tests to determine their BAC level.
If you or a loved one is charged with intoxication assault in Houston, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in DWI cases. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, and work towards obtaining the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact an Experienced Texas Intoxication Assault Lawyer Today
Intoxication assault is a grave offense in Houston, TX, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. With the dedicated efforts of law enforcement and legal authorities to address the issue, it is vital for those facing such charges to secure competent legal representation. Ayson Law Firm offers expert guidance and support for those confronted with intoxication assault charges, contact our Houston DWI lawyers today.
