When you face a DWI charge in Texas, you need to determine the severity of the offense and your possible punishments. You always have a right to a trial but in some cases, a plea bargain may be a better option. This will depend on the facts of your case, your personal preferences, and your life circumstances. Your lawyer may negotiate a DWI plea bargain with the prosecuting lawyer which often means agreeing to the crime in exchange for lower charges, penalties, and a possible sentence reduction. Negotiating a beneficial DWI plea can prove challenging on your own. Having a reliable DWI lawyer on your side can significantly increase the likelihood of receiving lighter consequences.
Sophia Martinez Law can provide you with dependable and honest legal representation that you can trust. With years of experience protecting and advocating for our clients, we have the resources and knowledge to guide you through the DWI plea negotiations and process. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to work with someone you can trust. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss the possible outcomes and strategies for your case.
What Are Potential Texas DWI Penalties?
One of the many reasons individuals seek DWI plea bargains is the possibility of a lighter sentence and penalties. When your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, a police officer can charge you with driving while intoxicated (DWI).
The following are potential penalties you can face depending on the number of prior offenses and other factors:
- First DWI offense: Can face fines of up to $2,000; license suspension of 90 days to 180 days; and 72 hours to 180 days in jail.
- Second DWI offense: Can face fines of up to $4,000; license suspension for at least one year or more depending on the time that has elapsed from the DWI prior; and 30 days to one year in jail.
- Third DWI offense: Can face fines of up to $10,000; license suspension for 1 to 2 years; and from 2 to 10 years in prison.
There are also additional penalties for other factors involved in your DWI arrest, including:
- A BAC of 0.15% or more(extreme intoxication in Texas)
- An open alcohol container in your car
- DWI accident with injuries to others
- Refusal to submit to a sobriety test
- A child passenger under the age of 15
Regardless of the severity of the charge, a plea bargain can reduce the likelihood of suffering severe and harsh punishments. Talk with your lawyer for more information on how you may benefit from a plea bargain.
How You Can Avoid a DWI Trial Through a Plea Bargain in Texas
A criminal trial comes with expenses and lost time for both parties, which is why a DWI plea bargain may be beneficial. The agreement allows both parties to avoid the stress and uncertainty of a criminal trial. With a plea bargain, you may be able to:
- Avoid the expenses and time of the trial
- Reduce multiple charges into one
- Plead guilty to a lesser charge
Most individuals who seek a Texas DWI plea bargain successfully reach an agreement. However, handling legal negotiations is risky without an experienced lawyer by your side. You may unknowingly jeopardize yourself and your rights when you try and complete the process alone.
Contact Sophia C. Martinez for an Experienced Texas DWI Defense Attorney
Some of the mistakes we make can have severe consequences that impact our lives. The harsh punishments can also limit our ability to find a job, apply for financial assistance, and receive higher education. Former Assistant District Attorney Sophia C. Martinez understands the challenges you face because of a DWI charge and will do everything in her power to negotiate a beneficial plea bargain for your case.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Sophia C. Martinez offers her legal services in both languages. You can count on Sophia Martinez Law to provide honest and professional legal representation for your case.
Call (210) 226-3000 or fill out our contact form today to learn more about our services.