If you are convicted of a DWI in Texas, it means that you were arrested with a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher, or that you refused to take a breathalyzer test. If you were arrested with a blood alcohol concentration of .15% or higher, you will have to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for a period of time, even if this was only your first offense. Read on to learn more about ignition interlock devices.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device is installed into your car. In order to start the car, you will be required to take a breathalyzer test. If your BAC is above .05%, the car will not start.
What Other Penalties Will I Face for a DWI?
If you are convicted of a DWI in Texas, you will face a wide array of additional penalties, though the consequences you will face depend largely on your BAC and whether this was your first, second, or third offense. The consequences of DWI charges in Texas are as follows:
- First Offense: This is a misdemeanor, for which you may face a potential $2,000 fine (though up to a $4,000 fine if you had a BAC of .15% or more, up to 180 days in jail (or up to one year in jail if you were arrested with a BAC of 0.15% or higher, a potential 1-year license suspension, an annual fee for up to three years, and the use of the ignition interlock device for no less than 50% of your supervision period.
- Second Offense: This is a misdemeanor, for which you may face up to one year in jail, a $4,000 fine, a two-year license suspension, an annual fee for three years, as well as the use of the ignition interlock device for no less than 50% of your supervision period.
- Third Offense: This is a felony, for which you may face up to 10 years in jail, a $10,000 fine, a potential 2-year license suspension, an annual fee for three years, and the use of the ignition interlock device for no less than 50% of your supervision period.
If you are facing DWI charges, you will need the help of an experienced attorney. Contact our firm today to discuss your case.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED HOUSTON FIRM
We understand how challenging various legal matters can be, which is why we have dedicated ourselves to helping clients in Texas through a wide array of legal matters, including personal injury law and criminal defense. If you have sustained a serious injury or are facing criminal charges, contact the Gonzalez Law Group today to learn more about how we can help you through every step of the legal process ahead.
