DWI charges are widespread, and many individuals facing them often believe there’s little that can be done. At the Antunez Law Firm, we’ve built a strong reputation for securing the best possible outcomes for our clients in challenging circumstances. Regardless of how dire your situation may seem or how harsh the prosecution’s penalties are, you can rely on our team to defend your rights and work to protect your freedom.
What’s the difference between DUI and DWI in Texas?
In Texas, a DUI charge applies only to individuals under the age of 21. DWI charges, on the other hand, are given to individuals over 21 who have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher.
Under DWI laws, the legal limit for driving after drinking is a BAC of .08% or below. However, anyone under the age of 21 can be charged with DUI for having any amount of alcohol in their system, even if their BAC is below the legal limit for adults.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI, our experienced DUI attorney is available to meet with you and review your case. We will provide you with expert legal guidance and discuss how we can represent you in your defense.
Texas DWI Laws
In Texas, the legal limit for operating a motor vehicle is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent. For commercial drivers, this limit is reduced to .04 percent, and individuals under 21 cannot have any alcohol in their system while driving. Once you are charged with DWI, it’s crucial to start planning your defense right away if you want to avoid serious consequences and maintain your driving privileges. Our firm has years of experience handling DWI cases, and we can help you present your case effectively and advocate for your rights.
First-offense DWI: A first-time DWI charge is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. If convicted, you could face up to 180 days in jail and fines as high as $2,000. Penalties increase with each subsequent conviction, so it's crucial to mount a strong defense against the first charge to avoid more severe consequences.
Aggravated DWI: This is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying a potential jail sentence of up to one year and fines of up to $4,000.
DWI with a minor passenger: This offense is classified as a Class E felony, which can result in a maximum prison sentence of up to four years.
Intoxication assault or manslaughter: If your drunk driving results in injury or death to another person, you could be facing a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years, along with fines of up to $10,000.