The Fourth of July is commonly commemorated with barbeques and pool parties. If you plan on partaking in alcohol or drug consumption during these festivities, it is in your best interest to make appropriate transportation plans. This is not only to ensure your safety but that of other drivers on the road. But if you are unfortunately charged with a first, second, or third-offense DWI this Fourth of July weekend, continue reading to learn the different consequences you are up against and how a proficient Kaufman County, Texas DWI lawyer at Harrell & Paulson, LLP can help you fight them off.
What are the penalties for a first-offense DWI this Fourth of July?
Even with a first-offense DWI, your life can be significantly altered, as jail time is a real possibility. Texas courts may inflict the following penalties onto you for a first-offense DWI:
A potential $2,000 fine.
Up to 180 days in jail.
Potential driver’s license suspension for one year.
Possible enrollment in DWI education or alcohol treatment programs.
Potential installation and use of the ignition interlock device.
On top of this, Texas courts are capable of imposing an additional $3,000, $4,5000, or $6,000 fine upon sentencing for DWI charges.
What are the penalties for a second-offense DWI this Fourth of July?
Since you will be considered a repeat offender, your penalties for a second-offense DWI will likely be much harsher. In the state of Texas, the potential consequences you are up against are as follows:
A potential $4,000 fine.
Up to one year in jail.
Potential driver’s license suspension for two years.
Possible enrollment in DWI education or alcohol treatment programs.
Potential installation and use of the ignition interlock device.
What are the penalties for a third-offense DWI this Fourth of July?
And lastly, the penalties for a third-offense DWI are the most severe, with incarceration being more likely than not. For a third-offense DWI in Texas, you are facing the following:
A potential $10,000 fine.
Anywhere between two and 10 years in prison.
Potential driver’s license suspension for two years.
Possible enrollment in DWI education or alcohol treatment programs.
Potential installation of the ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
If you are facing any of the above charges, it is important that you retain the services of a talented Kaufman County, Texas criminal defense lawyer today who will aggressively fight for your rights in court. Our firm will work to reduce or eliminate any charges against you with any perceivable defense, whether it be an improperly conducted or dysfunctional breathalyzer test, an unlawful stop, an improperly conducted field sobriety test, etc.
Contact Our Kaufman County Firm Today
For vigorous defenses for personal injury, criminal, divorce, or estate planning matters, contact Harrell & Paulson, LLP today to schedule your free case evaluation.
