Felony DWI

The penalties for drunk driving in Texas are severe. With second and third offenses, the costs for a DUI/DWI become even greater. While most DWI offenses are charged as misdemeanors, a third DWI is classified as a felony and carries a steep sentence if the accused is convicted. Individuals who have a past record of driving drunk should take extreme care to avoid situations that put them in a position of possibly being arrested for a second or third infraction. With a preexisting DWI record, one simple mistake could have costly consequences that are even greater than a first offense.

Felony DWI Penalties

A third DWI and arrest conviction leads to a serious felony charge and related penalties. Under Texas law, an individual convicted of a DWI for the third time may be punished with the following court ordered penalties:

• Imprisonment: 2 to 10 years
• Fines: Up to $10,000
• Driver's license suspension: Up to 2 years
• Ignition interlock installation in your vehicle
• DWI or alcohol treatment course or counseling

In addition to these court ordered penalties, you may also suffer many related costs in both your personal and professional life. Having a felony conviction may mark you as a felon for life, making it much more difficult to get a job, keep a job, apply for loans, and find a place to live.

How a Lawyer Can Help

Anyone who is arrested and charged with a crime has the right to legal defense in court. All suspected offenders are innocent until proven guilty, but a past record can make it more difficult to convince the court of your innocence. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you prepare your defense and will fight to protect your rights and interests throughout the court proceeding. He or she can scrutinize all questionable evidence brought against you and will aggressively defend you against an overzealous prosecution.

Contact Us

Don't enter the courtroom feeling unprepared or unsure. For sound legal advice and assistance regarding your felony DWI charge, please contact experienced Austin criminal lawyer Ian Inglis today at 512-472-1950.