The word “misdemeanor” for a first time DWI in Texas doesn’t sound like such a big deal, right? I mean, it sounds a lot better than felony, so maybe one would assume that a misdemeanor DWI charge possibly isn’t such a big deal. Not so fast. As with many things, the devil is in the details.
A person in Texas with a first time charge of DWI faces up to 180 days in jail, and a fine up to $2,000, or possibly both. There is also driver’s license suspension which will require a reactivation sur-charges of up to $1000 to $2000 over a period of three years. Add in increased insurance costs, a breath-ignition device, court costs, supervisory costs, lab costs, and so on. Additionally, the upfront real costs do not even take into account the long term and costly impact that could affect your career, relationships, and social standing. When I am asked by a client the exact cost of fees, fines, and sur-charges they can expect from being charged with a DWI in Texas, I give them a cost range, which is sometimes a best guess. It may seem crazy, but no two DWI’s are exactly alike, and no two judges enforce the laws exactly the same manner. The only fact that is absolute, it will be expensive, especially if you do not properly defend yourself.
You Can’t Afford “Not” Hiring A DWI Defense Attorney In Texas
Clients will often say that they are unsure about hiring a DWI defense attorney in the face of looming DWI fines and fees. How could they afford to hire a defense attorney, right? The truth is, they cannot afford not to. A qualified DWI defense attorney is often worth their weight in gold when it comes to management and resolution of a DWI charge in Texas. Unless defending criminal charges is your business, you will be greatly benefited by a resourceful guide and diligent defender. Your defense attorney is both.
It is true that Houston defense attorneys do not work for free, but cost should really be the last thing on your mind right now. It’s time to circle the wagons and do whatever is necessary to overcome this personal challenge. I have never heard anyone say that they wish they had handled their DWI charges on their own, instead of hiring a qualified DWI defense attorney. It doesn’t happen. More often than not, there is relief and gratitude when a criminal DWI charge has been eliminated or greatly reduced, at whatever cost. Defense Attorneys take great pride in what they do, especially when they are told by their clients, “that their money was well spent.”
If you have further questions in regards to your DWI case in Texas contact Mike Kohler who cares about your freedom and your future. Email him directly for a free case review. Alternatively, you can visit the Texas DPS website to learn more about DWI laws and how they affect you.
Yes. Every DWI is unique and there are no two identical cases. You do however have a limited amount of time after being charged for a DWI to fight to keep your Texas drivers license.
A first time DWI in Texas can be a felony or misdemeanor depending on the facts of the case. This being said, most first time DWI charges in Texas are classified as a misdemeanor.
Fines can exceed $2,000 and sur-charges can be even more over a period of time. There can be many other cost associated with a DWI conviction in Texas.
At very least you should have a consultation with an experienced DWI Defense Attorney who can help steer you in the right direction and better explain your options. Remember, every DWI case in Texas is different and facts in every case vary.
Mike Kohler, JD RN
