DWI Penalties in San Antonio, Texas
Defense from a San Antonio DWI Penalty Lawyer
One of the major things that you will need to consider after a being arrested for an alleged DWI is what types of penalties you are at risk of receiving.
There are a number of things that can determine what penalties a person is subject to, including:
- The type of DWI offense that occurred
- The individual's previous DWI history
- The person's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level
- Whether anyone was hurt as a result of the offense
With each DWI conviction, the penalties become more severe. First-time DWI offenders usually have the best chance of receiving less severe penalties, such as probation instead of jail time. In addition to probation and incarceration, those who are convicted of DWI can also suffer from other penalties, including the loss of their driving privileges.
If you are facing the consequences of a DWI, don't face them alone. Contact us today to start discussing your defense!
Can I go to Jail for a DWI?
If you have been arrested for a suspected DWI, you may be wondering whether you could be sent to jail as part of the terms of your sentence. The answer is yes, even a first-time DWI offender could be required to serve between 3 and 180 days in jail if he or she is convicted. In cases where an accident was caused as a result of an individual driving while intoxicated and other people sustained serious injury or death, additional charges and harsher penalties will apply.
To improve your chances of being able to avoid conviction, you are going to need a skilled San Antonio DWI penalty attorney fighting on your behalf. There are ways to successfully fight DWI charges. Admitting guilt or attempting to take responsibility for your actions, without first seeking legal counsel, is not recommended. You could end up making statements or agreeing to a plea bargain that would result in you serving jail time and ending up with a criminal record, rather than being free of all charges. The key is having an attorney who is committed to doing everything possible to provide you with a solid defense strategy geared at getting the charges against you reduced, dismissed or acquitted at trial.
DWI Penalties in the State of Texas
For a first-time DWI conviction, you can end up be sentenced to any of the following:
- Jail time (minimum of 3 days, maximum of 180 days)
- Possible probation in place of jail time
- Fine of up to $2,000
- Annual fee for three years, for retaining license ($1,000 or $2,000)
- Loss of driving privileges for up to 1 year
There are a number of things that can result in your penalties being enhanced, such as the fact that you had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15% or higher or the fact that you refused to take a breath or blood test. To learn what the penalties are for repeat DWI convictions, visit our Multiple DWI page. Because the penalties for a DWI case can vary from person to person, you should consult with a knowledgeable San Antonio DWI penalty attorney when trying to truly assess the gravity of your situation.
Help From A Former Prosecutor
If you are facing penalties because you have been charged with DWI, it is crucial that you obtain the appropriate legal counsel to represent you. At my firm, the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski, you can receive the personalized representation that you deserve.
I am a San Antonio DWI penalty lawyer who also draws from experience as a prosecutor, so I have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to criminal law--including the Texas laws pertaining to DWI. Do not hesitate to consult with me after your DWI arrest!
Facing DWI penalties? Contact the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski so that I can provide you with the aggressive advocacy you need! I offer free case evaluations.