Texas State Law states that if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over 0.08% while driving a motor vehicle, and you are stopped by a police officer, you will be charged with a DWI. A DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated” and comes with multiple levels of punishment. The consequences depend on how high your blood alcohol content level (BAC) is and the number of previous DWI convictions.
Even first offense DWI convictions have severe penalties that can significantly affect your life. From admission into your dream college to that promotion you’ve been eyeing, all those goals can be impacted by this one mistake. If you’re in a similar situation and are looking to challenge the arrest or seek to reduce harsh penalties, contact an experienced DWI attorney in Texas.
Can My Driver’s License Be Suspended after a DWI in Texas?
One of the consequences of a DWI is a suspended license. For individuals who have no prior convictions, their driver’s license can be suspended from anywhere between 90 days to one year. The length depends on multiple factors, including:
- Your BAC level exceeded 0.08%
- You had an open container of alcohol in the vehicle
- Your DWI resulted in an accident, injury, or fatality
- A child age 15 or younger was in the car
Having your license suspended can put others in difficult positions as well. It may become harder, if not impossible, to complete specific tasks that are required of you. For example, if your job requires you to drive a vehicle and you cannot do so, you may lose your job. When you’re in this type of situation, talk with DWI attorney Sophia Martinez for the best possible solution. One may be the option for an occupational license, if you qualify.
What Are the Consequences of a First Offense DWI in Texas?
Not only will you suffer a suspended license, but other penalties as well. Texas takes driving while under the influence very seriously and wants to deter individuals from repeating their behavior. Due to their interest in stopping recurring DWIs the punishments can be severe. The following are a few other punishments you may face:
- Fine of up to $2,000
- Between 72 hours to 180 days in jail
- DWI educational programs
- Possible ignition interlock device (IID)
Like with a suspended license, the other punishments also depend on the severity of the crime. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) was low and no accident occurred, you may have very low punishments. However, if someone was injured or property was damaged due to a DWI, you can suffer serious consequences that significantly affect your future.
How Can a Texas DWI Affect Your Future?
From your relationships to your career, a DWI can turn your life upside down. You may have to discuss your DWI and how it’s affected your life at some point in a conversation. In job interviews and applications, there is either a section, or they will ask you about your criminal background. Most often, background checks and other forms of identification will show your criminal record; lying is not something you should consider. However, your answer may impact whether or not they hire you.
This is the same for those applying to college or graduate school. In some cases, a DWI can show your growth and how you’re willing to overcome your mistakes to create a better future. Unfortunately, not all positions and companies will see like that. These are essential factors to consider when thinking about how a DWI might affect your professional life.
Contact an Experienced Texas DWI Attorney at Sophia Martinez Law Today
The DWI process in Texas can be complex and overwhelming to those unfamiliar with the law. Attorney Sophia C. Martinez has the experience and resources to help navigate you through your case. Her dedication to her clients and honest legal advice makes her an attorney you can trust. As someone fluent in both English and Spanish, Attorney Sophia C. Martinez offers accessible and comfortable communication to many people. When you work with Sophia Martinez Law, you’ll have the legal representation you can count on to protect your rights.
Call (210) 226-3000 or fill out our contact form for more information about our services.