DWI
DWI Law Attorney iN Edinburg, TX
Over a Decade of Experience Defending Drivers in McAllen and Hidalgo County
One of the most common driving-related crimes is driving while intoxicated. If this is your first offense, you may be able to argue for more lenient or reduced penalties. Nonetheless, the sooner you obtain legal representation, the sooner you can build an effective defense and get out of your legal predicament. Even if you only have to spend a few days behind bars, you might have your license revoked for months, leaving you off the road and without your driving privileges.
Attorney Jorge Muñoz has been defending drivers in Texas for over a decade. He takes an educational approach to his legal practice, so he will pay special attention to explaining all the laws and legal processes relevant to your DWI case. From there, he will work one-on-one with you to craft a compelling defense option that meets your needs and goals as a driver.
Schedule a free consultation with Muñoz Law Group to learn more about how the firm can help you with your DWI charge. Bilingual Spanish services available.
What Is Considered “Driving While Intoxicated?”
In Texas, a crime of DWI, or driving while intoxicated, is when a driver operates a motor vehicle while they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more or while they are intoxicated by drugs or alcohol to the extent that the substances impair the person’s normal use of their mental or physical faculties. Drivers under 21 years of age can be charged with DWI merely for having any detectable amount of alcohol in their system according to the state’s “zero tolerance” laws.
Note that actually driving while intoxicated is sufficient for a conviction, but it isn’t required. Merely being in control (“operating”) a vehicle with substances in your system could warrant a DWI charge.
Penalties and Sentencing for DWI
The penalties upon conviction for DWI will primarily depend on how many prior convictions you have:
- 1st offense – 72 hours to 6 months in jail; up top $2,000 in fines; 90 days to 12 months of license suspension
- 2nd offense (within 10 years) – 30 days to 12 months in jail; up to $4,000 in fines; 180 days to 2 years of license suspension; 1 year of ignition interlock device (IID) use
- 3rd offense (within 10 years) – 2-10 years in jail; up to $10,000 in fines; 180 days to 2 years; 1 year of IID use
The maximum jail time for a first offense increases to 12 months and the maximum fine to $4,000 if you had a BAC of .15% or more. Additionally, first offenders may obtain an “occupational license” that grants them limited driving privileges (only being allowed to drive to work or school, for instance), but you will need to obtain an IID.
Understanding DWI Defense in Edinburg, TX
If you find yourself facing a DWI charge in Edinburg, it’s essential to understand the local laws and resources available to you. The Hidalgo County Court provides information on DWI laws and penalties specific to our area, ensuring that residents are informed about their rights and responsibilities.
Residents often express frustration over the impact a DWI conviction can have on their daily lives, from commuting to work to attending family events. The local Hidalgo County Motor Vehicle Department can assist with questions about license suspensions and the process for obtaining an occupational license, which allows limited driving privileges for work or school. Understanding these options can alleviate some of the stress associated with a DWI charge.
Moreover, the community is aware of the challenges posed by the local law enforcement's strict enforcement of DWI laws. Many individuals in Edinburg have shared their concerns about the implications of a DWI conviction on their employment and personal lives. It’s crucial to have a solid defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your case, especially in a region where the legal landscape can be complex.
By staying informed and seeking guidance from local resources, you can navigate the DWI process more effectively. Whether you’re facing your first offense or have prior convictions, understanding the local laws and available support can make a significant difference in your case.
Implied Consent in Texas
Texas also implements “implied consent” laws like many other states that require drivers lawfully arrested for a DWI to submit to a breath or blood test. If you refuse to test, you could face licenses suspension for 180 days for a first offense and 2 years for a subsequent refusal within 10 years.
If you are facing DWI charges, reach out to an experienced DWI attorney for legal representation. It is in your best interests to enlist the help of a lawyer before talking to the cops or doing anything that risks incriminating yourself. Attorney Jorge Muñoz will inform you of your rights and options for legal recourse, and he will do his best to help you get back on the road as soon as possible.
Schedule a free consultation with Muñoz Law Group online to learn more. Spanish services available. Representing drivers in McAllen and Hidalgo County.
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Attorney Muñoz views his role in the attorney-client relationship as a helper, available to guide clients through any potential issue to leave them in the best position possible to protect their rights and best interests.
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