A DWI is not something taken lightly in Texas, which imposes some of the most strict penalties in the country for this offense. This is due to the serious harm that can occur if someone under the influence is involved in a collision due to their intoxication. With each subsequent conviction, the charges grow more intense. As such, if you are facing a third DWI, you’ll want to keep reading to learn the consequences you can face and the importance of connecting with Houston DWI attorneys.
What Consequences Can I Face for a Third DWI?
You will be charged with a DWI for the third time in the event you are caught driving with a Blood Alcohol Concentration at or over the legal limit of 0.08% or you have a detectable amount of alcohol in your system that the officer conducting the traffic stop has determined impacts your ability to safely operate a vehicle.
If you are charged with a third DWI, you can expect to face serious consequences if convicted. Generally, this is charged as a third-degree felony offense, which carries the potential for up to ten years in prison but a minimum of two years. In addition to incarceration, you will be fined a maximum of $10,000 and a two-year license suspension.
If you choose to plead guilty, you will also be put on probation. As such, you will have to serve a minimum of ten days in jail as opposed to a minimum of two years. In addition, you must complete a mandatory 600 hours of community service, participate in alcohol education programs, and undergo a substance abuse evaluation.
In addition, being charged with a felony crime can seriously harm your relationships and job opportunities. You may find that your status as a felon impacts career opportunities and you may damage relationships with friends and family as a result of your decisions.
What Should I Do if I’m Charged?
If you are charged with a DWI for the third time, you should not underestimate the importance of connecting with an experienced attorney. Trying to navigate these matters on your own can lead to unfavorable outcomes. However, if you have an experienced attorney working to defend you, you have a much better chance of a favorable outcome.
This is because your attorney has the experience and resources necessary to help craft a defense. They may be able to prove you suffer from certain medical conditions that can skew the results of a breathalyzer test, or that the officer conducting the test did not administer it properly. If they examine your case and determine that pleading guilty is in your best interest, they can work with the protection to negotiate a deal that is in your best interest.
When you’re in legal trouble, the Sparks Law Firm, PC is ready to help. We understand that this is an anxiety-inducing time, which is why we are proud to guide you through these matters. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can assist you.
