DWI Defense in Dallas, TX
If you are facing DWI charges, the very best thing you can do is fight for prevention. John M. Cook will be by your side from the moment of your arrest, standing up for your rights and trying to secure the most favorable outcome possible. He has had massive success defending DWI cases, in many cases having charges reduced or dropped altogether.
If you have been arrested for DWI, it can wreak havoc on your life in the short term and far into the future.
That makes it imperative for you to have the best defense lawyer you can get on your side to stand up for your rights, and John M. Cook is that lawyer. His former experience as a police officer and prosecutor makes him especially qualified to represent you and help you obtain the most favorable outcome possible. Learn more about how DWI cases typically work below.
When will DWI charges be brought?
In Texas, DWI charges can be brought against any driver whose blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or greater or any driver who is alleged to be impaired either from alcohol or drugs. A driver having an open container of alcohol while stopped can face increased penalties.
Fines and penalties for DWI convictions
A first DWI offense carries a fine of up to $2,000. If there is a minor age 15 or under in the car at the time of the arrest, then the fine is increased to $10,000. DWI with a minor in the car means you can also be sentenced to up to two years in prison and lose your driver’s license for up to 180 days for a first offense.
If convicted of DWI, in addition to the fines and administrative fees, you will also lose your license for some time. It then costs $1,000 per year to get your license back and keep it. This $1000 fee is charged for the first three years after your sentence is completed. Second offenses can have accompanying fines of $4000, and fees of $1,500 per year for three years after your conviction to keep your license. In addition to the fines and penalties, you will have several other punishments imposed on you if convicted of DWI, including drug testing, ignition interlock, drug and alcohol treatment programs, driving programs, and anything else the court orders. Each of these programs has associated costs, borne by you.
Long term effects of a DWI conviction
In addition to legal penalties and fines, you could face other harmful consequences if you are convicted of DWI. For example, many jobs today require a background check to be performed. A background check will reveal you have a DWI conviction on your record, which can disqualify you from the position you want. You will undoubtedly be disqualified if you are applying for a driving position (truck driver) or one where you will be responsible for children, the elderly, or those with special needs. If you are applying for a job that requires security clearance, you will also likely be disqualified from the position with a DWI conviction.
