Penalties for DWI Convictions, Part 1 | Tyler Flood & Associates

Among criminal justice systems and legal professionals, Texas is fairly notorious for having comparatively strict penalties associated with driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses. Drivers who have been arrested of a DWI, regardless of the evidence or lack of evidence against them, must take the situation seriously and begin working on a viable defense. Otherwise, the Texas criminal justice system will be free to enact its harshest punishments. In our Houston DWI defense law blog, we explore the state’s DWI penalties and how they escalate in this multipart blog series, starting with a first-time DWI conviction.

BAC Legal Limits in Texas

Texas uses the same blood alcohol concentration (BAC) legal limits as all other states in the country. A driver aged 21 or older is automatically considered illegally intoxicated behind the wheel if he or she has a BAC level of 0.08% or higher. Commercial drivers have that limit halved, down to just 0.04%. Minors can be charged with Driving Under the Influence, a Class C misdemeanor if they have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system.

First-Time DWI Conviction Penalties in Texas

As mentioned, Texas does not pull its punches when decided to penalize drunk drivers. Even if there is little proof to show that stricter penalties deter individuals more from repeating the same criminal behavior, the state frequently goes to the top limits when assigning sentencing punishments.
You should not assume there will be leniency, and you should always fight your charges to the full extent possible.

When convicted for a DWI for the first time in Texas, penalties could include:

Fine paid to the state up to $2,000
Incarceration between 3 days and 6 months
2-year probation if no jail time is assigned
Up to 1-year license suspension
$2,000 annual surcharge for 3 years following license reinstatement
Completion of DWI and safe driving educational course (12 hours)

You may also be expected to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, which prevents you from starting your car unless you first blow a BAC under the legal limit into the device. An IID is generally installed for half a year, but the exact duration will depend on the ruling judge’s discretion. Keep in mind that the monthly fee for having one of these devices is about $100.

Tyler Flood & Associates – Houston’s DWI Defense Counsel

The people of Texas frequently turn to Houston DWI defense Attorney Tyler Flood when faced with a first-time or subsequent DWI. With years of legal experience focused primarily on DWI defense and an impressive list of awards and recognitions, you can be confident that our legal team with explore every avenue and go to all lengths to help you
beat your DWI charges. Let’s discuss your case right now – contact our firm to begin with a free consultation.

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Client Testimonials

"Tyler and his team are top notch—with years of experience under their belts they know what strategy will work to advocate for the best possible outcome. They are knowledgeable, professional, and courteous. Like a doctor, you never know you hire a bad attorney until it’s too late, and don’t take a gamble and retain someone else, especially when the clock starts running quickly, once you are arrested for a DWI. Run, don’t walk, to retain Flood and Associates!"

- Alyssa S

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"So. I can't say enough about Tyler Flood and Associates! BRAVO!! I had a 3rd DWI and my daughter Googled Tyler & Co. Who are DWI SPECIALISTS! I set up an appointment, and was impressed with their knowledge on the Laws and Science of DWI cases! Hank👍💥💥💥💥💥👌"

- Hank Baerga

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"Tyler Flood did an excellent job in taking care of my situation when no other attorney could do so. He kept communication open by way of text messages and phone calls, I was inform in every step along the way and he represented me well in court. His assistant Andrea was very quick in responding to my emails, I felt comforted by their genuine concerns of my case. Highly recommended"

- Tamra Elwell

a Google user
"Tyler Flood and associates are an astronomical team. Tyler was aggressive when needed to be and very professional during my trail. He left no stone unturned. I highly reccomend Mr. Flood if you ever find yourself in a situation such as myself. The not guilty verdict for a dwi was the best! "

- Magaly

an Avvo user
"Great experience under terrible circumstances...when your future is at risk, the attorney you chose could decide your fate..Flood & associates took my case personal...I felt I was represented by family...highly recommend Tyler to everyone!"

- Brent

a Google user
"I personally want everyone to know, this is the best law firm for dui issues! They are professional and responds all the time, communications between the office and myself was on par at all times and bottom line. MY CASE WAS DISMISSED!!!"

- TW David C.

a Yelp user
"Tyler did a great job for me. I never felt like he wanted me to settle. In fact he would encourage me to hang in there and go to trial. In the end my DWI was dismissed the day of trial. I would definitely recommend them."

- Robin

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