What Is Deferred Adjudication?
One legal option available for some facing Texas DWI charges is deferred adjudication, a program that is a form of probation, or community supervision. It is a way for the person who is charged to accept responsibility but avoid severe criminal penalties, including huge fines and incarceration. When deferred adjudication is a good match, it could even be a way to have charges dismissed.
Not everyone qualifies for deferred adjudication following a Texas DWI. For example, it has to be your first DWI. If there are prior convictions on your record, you will not be eligible. Also, if you were driving with a commercial license or had a very high blood alcohol level at the time of your arrest, you will not qualify. To discuss if deferred adjudication could be a possibility for you or someone you love, talk to a Houston DWI lawyer.
Pleading Guilty and Probation
If you do qualify for deferred adjudication and you and your attorney determine it is the best path for you, there are rules you need to follow. One of these is you have to admit guilt for the charge. You and your lawyer will appear in front of a Texas judge.
Then, there will be a probationary period. Drug testing and the installation of an ignition interlock device could be part of your probation. It is common to have to perform community service as well. If you do not follow all of the rules, such as not appearing in court or failing a drug test, you could face severe penalties. The penalties could be even steeper than the ones you were facing for the original charge, prior to you being involved in the deferred adjudication process. It is important to take deferred adjudication seriously and commit yourself to seeing the process through to avoid charges.
Your Conviction Record and Deferred Adjudication
Assuming you complete the deferred adjudication process, your arrest will be deferred and dismissed. Succeeding in all parts of the process is essential for this to be true. But, it is important to understand the charge could be on your record, depending on the situation, such as if you failed any factor of your probationary process.
Many factors need to be considered when pursuing a deferred adjudication process in the state of Texas. Working with an experienced Houston DWI lawyer means you will understand the process each step of the way. A skilled attorney knows what deadlines need to be followed and how to pursue the best future. Share the details of your situation with an attorney to understand your options.
Are you wondering if there is a path to getting your DWI charge dismissed? Our experienced legal team can defend you against criminal charges and explore treatment and rehabilitation options. We have the knowledge to protect you whether the alleged crime was minor or serious. Reach out to the legal team at Ayson Law Firm to understand your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Houston criminal defense attorney today.
