Ellis County and Navarro County DWI Attorney
Aggressive Defense Against DWI Charges in Navarro & Ellis County
Although DWI laws are sometimes called “drunk driving,” this is not entirely accurate. You don’t have to be intoxicated to be arrested.
If you need a DWI attorney in Ellis County and Navarro County, The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford is prepared to fight on your behalf. We have helped many who faced criminal charges to obtain a favorable outcome for their situation, and we are prepared to fight for you.
Contact our DWI lawyer today by calling (214) 903-7722 to schedule a FREE consultation!
DWI Laws in Texas
To be arrested for a DUI in Texas, you must have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher or impaired by any type of drug. However, BAC limit for commercial driver's license (CDL) holders is .04 percent, while any detectable amount of alcohol can result in arrest for underage drivers.
There are far-reaching implications to a DWI arrest. You must act quickly if you want to preserve your driving privileges. You only have 15 days to appeal a driver’s license suspension, and the administrative license revocation hearing must occur within 40 days of your arrest. In addition to losing your driving privileges, you could face other penalties.
The consequences for conviction are influenced by:
- Your age
- Blood alcohol content (BAC)
- Any prior DWI arrests
- Whether your actions resulted in injury or death
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Our Satisfied Clients
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“Eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word.”
Michael Crawford is awesome. He is by far the best defense mechanism We've seen around this town n a very long time if evr.exactly what we needed.he was so eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word. He actually works for u, his client. Even if court-appointed he seems to give 110%. Just imagine what he would do if he was getting paid. He shows me money is not everything! He is really in it to HELP his clients. My opinion is Micheal Crawford is a one of a kind lawyer.- Becky -
“Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person.”
Michael J. Crawford is a graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in Dallas. He chose to open his own law practice in his hometown of Kerens in lieu of practicing with a big firm in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. He works hard for clients. He is known as the "Blue Collar Lawyer" because he gives 110% effort for every client. I was very impressed with his professionalism, understanding, and expression of sincerity while he was handling my case. Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person. Thanks, Michael for protecting my rights.- Jaclynn -
“Not only does he care about his client, but he will also care for your family and keep them aware.”
“- JohnIf you want a lawyer that will pour his extensive knowledge of the law and the people of Navarro County into your case, this is the lawyer for you.
He stood up to the small town Justice System, that continually beat him down, but not once gave up
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“As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.”
- Former ClientMr. Crawford was able to represent my wishes and balance that with a sensible plan while taking the appropriate time to compassionately explain the process to me, answer all my questions and really listen to my concerns. Mr. Crawford was honest, knowledgeable, and aggressively fought for a successful outcome.
As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.
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“If u need someone he would be the one to use!!!”
He does a really great job!!! very smart!! will help u in any wy!! love what he's doing!!!this is the kinda lawyer we been needing here in this area!!! the other lawyer all play along with the other lawyer but Micheal stand along an get the job done!! he has a great staff that has it so simple for him!! if u need someone he would be the one to use!!!- Timothy -
“It was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client”
Mr. Crawford was the attorney for my nephew - I sat in court the 5 days of court - and observed Mr. Crawford for the entire trial - it was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client -- and defend, he did. He was wonderful!- Millie -
“He is very knowledgeable and passionate about the law.”
Mr. Crawford was awesome at handling my complex custody issues. Through the process, trumped-up charges were brought against me. Mr. Crawford was available over the weekend and at night at the peak of my issues when I needed him the most. His advice was on point and everything worked out like he advised it would. He is very knowledgable and passionate about the law. He doesn't just make deals. He fights for justice and wins.- Lance -
“He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.”
Michael Crawford and his associates went above and beyond to help us with a very complex case resulting in a much more favorable divorce settlement than we ever thought would happen. He took a personal interest, showed compassion and understanding and his patience was that of Job. He is passionate about his work as well as fair, tough and blunt. He is aggressive and one time said, "I love to fight" -- exactly what I am looking for in a lawyer. I would recommend his office to anyone looking for a tough, smart lawyer. He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.- lschnellmann
What are the Penalties for a DWI in Texas?
The penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas depend on the circumstances of the offense and whether it is a first, second, or subsequent offense. A skilled Ellis County and Navarro County DWI lawyer can help you understand the potential penalties you may face and work to mitigate them.
First Offense
Class B misdemeanor
- Fines up to $2,000
- 3 to 180 days in jail
- Driver’s license suspension for up to one year
- Annual surcharge of $1,000 to $2,000 for three years to retain your license
Second Offense
Class A misdemeanor
- Fines up to $4,000
- 30 days to one year in jail
- Driver’s license suspension for up to two years
- Annual surcharge of $1,500 to $2,000 for three years
Third Offense
Third-degree felony
- Fines up to $10,000
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- Driver’s license suspension for up to two years
- Annual surcharge of $1,500 to $2,000 for three years
Additional Penalties for Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can lead to enhanced penalties, including:
- DWI with a Child Passenger: Charged as a state jail felony with up to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
- Intoxication Assault: Causing serious bodily injury while driving intoxicated, charged as a third-degree felony.
- Intoxication Manslaughter: Causing the death of another person while driving intoxicated, charged as a second-degree felony.
- High BAC: A BAC of 0.15% or higher may result in elevated charges and penalties.
How Much is a DWI Ticket in Texas?
In Texas, a DWI ticket can range anywhere between $2,000 - $10,000 fine depending if you have had previous DWI offenses.
Contact our Ellis County and Navarro County DWI attorney today at (214) 903-7722 to schedule your free consultation!
How do I win a DWI case in Texas?
Winning a DWI case in Texas is not guaranteed, but with the right legal representation, you can challenge the charges and pursue the best outcome for your situation. Consulting an experienced Ellis County and Navarro County DWI lawyer will give you the tools and guidance needed to fight back effectively.
While each case is unique, success often depends on undermining the prosecution’s evidence and presenting a compelling defense. Here are key steps and strategies that could increase your chances of a favorable outcome:
- Challenge the Traffic Stop: Question whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to pull you over.
- Dispute Field Sobriety Tests: Highlight improper administration, external factors, or medical conditions that may have impacted your performance.
- Challenge Chemical Test Results: Focus on inaccuracies in breathalyzer or blood tests due to errors, contamination, or medical conditions.
- Question Police Procedures: Review whether proper protocols were followed, including Miranda rights and obtaining necessary warrants.
- Present Evidence of Sobriety: Use witness testimony, video footage, or medical records to demonstrate you were not impaired.
- Evaluate Prosecution’s Evidence: Identify inconsistencies, procedural errors, or gaps in the chain of custody for key evidence.
- Negotiate a Reduced Charge or Dismissal: Work to reduce charges to a lesser offense or secure a plea deal.
- Seek Alternatives to Conviction: Explore options like diversion programs or deferred adjudication for first-time offenders.
- Act Quickly: Request an ALR hearing within 15 days of arrest to contest a license suspension.
- Document Everything: Keep records of the traffic stop, arrest, and interactions with law enforcement.
Is a DWI a Felony in Texas?
Texas has a zero-tolerance policy regarding driving under the influence and will impose severe penalties on any driver found guilty of committing this offense, and depending on the exact circumstances, driving while intoxicated can be deemed either a misdemeanor or a felony.
In most cases, individuals convicted of DWI in Texas may face a felony charge if they have two prior convictions or misdemeanors or caused an accident while driving while intoxicated (DWI), resulting in serious bodily injury or death
Texas DWI laws are complex and often confusing, so it's essential to work with an experienced Texas DWI lawyer if you are facing such charges to ensure that your legal rights and interests are protected.
Can a DWI be Dismissed in Texas?
So, if you do not agree to enter a guilty plea and, instead, elect to fight your DWI charges, you may have an almost 45 percent chance of having your charges reduced or dismissed. If you can not get your DWI dismissed, your charges can be reduced to a lower sentence.
Why Choose The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford?
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All Initial Consultations Are FREE of Charge
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Se Habla Español
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Board Certified as a Specialist in Criminal Law by Texas Board of Legal Specialization
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We Take Your Calls and Texts 24/7 - Here When You Need Us
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Client & Peer Reviewed 5 Stars for Quality Representation
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Over 200 Criminal Cases Taken to Jury Trials
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Extensive Courtroom Experience and Longstanding Reputation with Local Judges
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20% Discount to Veterans and Current Military or Civil Service
Why Hire a DWI Lawyer in Navarro or Ellis County?
After an arrest, secure qualified legal counsel immediately. Our DUI/DWI lawyer in Ellis County and Navarro County can help you stay out of jail, preserve or restore your driving privileges, and work to reduce or eliminate fines and prevent conviction.
In addition, we can help with contingent license programs that allow you to drive to and from your job.
Contact The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, PLLC, today at (214) 903-7722 to schedule a FREE consultation with our DWI/DUI lawyer in Ellis County and Navarro County.
