The Punishments for First Offense DUI/DWI Charges By Jason Trumpler, P.C. on April 18, 2014

The Punishments for First Offense DUI/DWI ChargesWhen you face a DUI/DWI charge of any kind, it's important to have skilled attorneys on your side. A DWI lawyer will help you get your side of the story heard, and he or she will work diligently to ensure fairness and that our system works as intended.

Many clients ask us about the legal penalties that come with first-time DUI/DWI convictions. We'd like to take a few moments right now to consider the legal penalties for first-offense DUI/DWI right now. This will give you an idea of why legal assistance is so crucial.

About DUI/DWI Offenses in the State of Texas

A driver is considered intoxicated when his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds 0.08. Commercial drivers cannot exceed a BAC of 0.04.

An “extreme DUI” charge is levied if the driver's BAC exceeds 0.15. In extreme DUI cases, the penalties are increased given the level of serious intoxication at the time of arrest.

Jail Time for First Offense DUI/DWI

People charged with their first DUI/DWI will face between 3 days to 180 days incarceration. If there is an open container in the vehicle, this means a mandatory 6 days in jail.

Fines for First Offense DUI/DWI

People convicted of their first DUI/DWI will be charged up to $2,000 in fines. There will be an increase in fines if there is a passenger in the car younger than 15. In addition to these base fines, the convicted will be required to pay an additional $1,000 annual surcharge for three years.

License Suspension for First Offense DUI/DWI

After the first DUI/DWI conviction, a person will have his or her driver's license suspended for 90 days to 365 days. The exact amount of time will be determined by the judge.

Other Punishments and Penalties for First Offense DUI/DWI

In addition to the above, people convicted of their DUI/DWI can also expect between 24 hours to 100 hours of community service, and probation for 1 year to 2 years. The convicted will also undergo a drug/alcohol evaluation to determine the probability of repeat DUI/DWI and will need to participate in a DUI/DWI Education class within 180 days of conviction.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, it may be necessary attend AA or a substance abuse treatment/group, and a possible court order to refrain from all alcohol consumption for a specified amount of time. The judge may also order the installation of an ignition interlock device, which is something of a breathalyzer test that must be performed before a vehicle can start.

Why a DUI/DWI Defense Lawyer Is Crucial for Second Offenses

Following a drunk driving arrest, it's important to seek legal representation. DWI defense lawyers will ensure that you receive a hearing and that all evidence in your case is carefully considered. They will work on plea deals to reduce penalties and help you make the right choices during each step of the legal process.

Learn More About Your Legal Options In Drunk Driving Cases

If you would like to learn more about your legal rights in a drunk driving case, be sure to contact our Austin, TX DUI/DWI defense lawyers today. At the Law Offices of Jason Trumpler, it's our goal to make sure that you receive sound counsel and the best legal help possible.

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Jason Trumpler

The Law Offices of Jason Trumpler

Jason Trumpler has handled thousands of criminal cases over nearly 20 years. He is a current or past member of several national, state, and local legal associations, including:

  • American Bar Association
  • Austin Bar Association
  • Williamson County Bar Association
  • National College for DUI Defense®
  • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association

Contact our firm online or call us at (512) 457-5200 for a free case review.

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