First DWI Defense
Getting arrested for a DWI can be scary. You’re thinking, “Will I lose my license? My job? Am I going to jail?” You may not know how the legal process works, or what you’re up against.
What Happens When I Get a First DWI?
The first DWI is considered a misdemeanor, but that doesn’t mean the penalties are light. A first DWI can still result in:
- Jail time of up to 180 days (up to two years if there was a passenger under 15 in your car -DWI /child passenger is a felony)
- Fine of up to $2,000 (up to $10,000 if there was a passenger under 15) DWI surcharge of up to $1,500 per year Possible license suspension
There are actually two proceedings you have to face if you’re charged with a DWI. The first is the administrative license hearing (ALR), which determines whether or not your license will be suspended, and for how long. The second are the actual criminal proceedings that determine whether or not you’ll have to pay a fine, do community service, and/or go to jail.
How a Houston DWI Attorney Can Help
If this sounds confusing, it’s because it can be if you’re not familiar with the courts. However, it’s possible to have the charges dismissed or reduced or get a not guilty verdict. The prosecuting attorney will need to prove that the police officer had a reason to stop you and prove that you were driving while intoxicated.
An experienced Houston DWI attorney can get your charges reduced or dismissed or get you a not guilty verdict. Whether you failed the Breathalyzer or the results were questionable, Attorney Jonathan J. Paull can investigate every aspect of your case, from how legal it was for the police to stop you to the results of your Breathalyzer.
Attorney Paull has 14 years of experience dealing with courts, police officers, and DWI defense cases. His track record of dismissals, charge reductions, and not guilty verdicts speaks for itself – he’s kept his clients out of jail and on the road so they can continue to provide for themselves and their families.
If you’ve been arrested for your first DWI, call (713) 227-1525 today. Don’t wait; you’ll need to request your ALR hearing and start building your defense as soon as possible.
