DWI Defense

DWI Defense Attorney in Houston, TX

One of the most common criminal arrests in the Houston area is Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). Like every other state, Texas strictly prohibits drunk driving, and a conviction can lead to serious consequences. Beyond criminal charges, DWI arrests in Texas can also result in civil penalties, including license suspension.

Through the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) program, individuals have only 15 days to request a hearing after a DWI arrest. If you’ve recently been arrested for drunk driving in Southeast Texas, it’s crucial to secure experienced legal representation immediately.

Contacto Salinas Defense today. Our Houston DWI defense attorneys represent clients throughout Harris County, including Friendswood, Pearland, Seabrook, League City, Deer Park, Pasadena, La Porte, Galena Park, Baytown, and more. Call (832) 820-1888 now for a free and confidential consultation.

Texas DWI Laws

Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, it’s a criminal offense to operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. Texas defines “intoxicated” under § 49.01(2) as:

Lacking the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances, or
Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more.

BAC refers to grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath, 100 milliliters of blood, or 67 milliliters of urine. Many DWI arrests involve roadside breath tests or chemical testing at the station. While a BAC of 0.08% constitutes a “per se” DWI offense, an officer can also arrest you based on impaired behavior, drug use, or a combination of substances — even if your BAC is under 0.08%.

Common DWI Charges in Harris County

At Salinas Defense, we defend against a wide range of DWI-related charges in Greater Houston, including:

First DWI

Even a first offense can result in:

Up to 1 year in jail
Fines up to $4,000
License suspension
Increased insurance rates

Second DWI

As a repeat offender, you face:

License suspension for 6 months to 2 years
Up to 1 year in jail
Mandatory ignition interlock device

Third or Subsequent DWI

A third offense can mean:

Up to $10,000 in fines
Up to 20 years in prison
License revocation for 2 years
Felony charges

Felony DWI

A DWI becomes a felony in cases involving:

A child passenger
Injury or death to others
Multiple prior offenses

Boating While Intoxicated (BWI)

Operating a boat with a BAC over 0.08% can result in a BWI, with similar consequences to a DWI.

Commercial DWI

Commercial drivers face license disqualification and job loss, even for a first offense.

Drug-Related DWI

Driving under the influence of marijuana, prescription meds, or illegal drugs can result in DWI charges, even without alcohol involvement.

DWI with Property Damage

Damaging property while intoxicated can lead to harsher penalties and potentially civil liability.

DWI with Child Passenger

Driving drunk with a minor (under 15) in the car is a felony offense, carrying steep consequences.

DWI with BAC 0.15+

A BAC of 0.15% or higher leads to enhanced penalties and possible felony classification.

DWI Under 21

Texas’s zero-tolerance policy means anyone under 21 with any detectable alcohol in their system can be charged with DWI.

Intoxication Assault

A third-degree felony involving serious bodily injury caused while driving under the influence.

Intoxication Manslaughter

A second-degree felony for causing death while intoxicated. Penalties include:

Up to 20 years in prison
$10,000 fine
Felony conviction

Marijuana DWI

Even if marijuana is legal in other states, driving under its influence in Texas can result in a DWI arrest and conviction.

Open Container

Texas law prohibits open containers of alcohol in the vehicle’s passenger area. Violations can lead to additional charges alongside a DWI.

Contact Our DWI Defense Attorneys in Harris County, TX

A DWI arrest can impact your career, finances, freedom, and future. Don’t face the criminal justice system alone.

The experienced attorneys at Salinas Defense serve clients in Houston, Pearland, Baytown, Seabrook, La Porte, Pasadena, Galena Park, Friendswood, and across Harris County. We will thoroughly evaluate your case, investigate the facts, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call (832) 820-1888 now or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free, confidential consultation.