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DWI

Corsicana 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 Corsicana, 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.

What is a DWI?

A DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated, is a criminal offense in the United States, often referred to as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in some states. It occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that their normal faculties are impaired. The specific definitions, penalties, and legal limits for DWI/DUI vary from state to state, but the core concept remains consistent: it's illegal to drive while impaired due to the consumption of alcohol or drugs.

In most cases, a DWI is associated with alcohol, and the level of intoxication is often measured by a person's Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). Each state sets its own legal limit for BAC, but it's commonly set at 0.08%. If a person's BAC is at or above the legal limit, they can be charged with a DWI.

Consequences of a DWI can include:

  • Criminal Charges: Being charged with a DWI is a criminal offense. A conviction can result in fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.
  • License Suspension: Most states will suspend or revoke the offender's driver's license upon a DWI conviction, often with varying periods of suspension depending on the number of prior offenses.
  • Insurance Premiums: A DWI conviction can lead to a significant increase in auto insurance premiums, and some insurance providers may choose to drop coverage altogether.
  • Ignition Interlock Devices: In many states, DWI offenders are required to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles, which prevent the car from starting if the driver has alcohol on their breath.
  • Criminal Record: A DWI conviction results in a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences, affecting employment opportunities, housing, and more.

It's important to note that consequences for a DWI can vary widely based on factors such as the defendant's BAC, prior convictions, the presence of aggravating circumstances (e.g., causing an accident with injuries), and the specific laws in the jurisdiction where the offense occurred.

Given the seriousness of DWI charges and the potential impact on a person's life, it is essential to seek legal representation when facing such charges. An experienced attorney can help navigate the legal process, explore potential defenses, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for the case. 

What To Do If You Get a DWI In Texas

If you've been arrested for a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in Texas, it's essential to take specific steps to navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and minimize the potential consequences. Here's a general guideline on what to do if you get a DWI in Texas:

  • Cooperate with Law Enforcement: When you are pulled over by the police for suspicion of DWI, it's crucial to remain calm and cooperative. Provide your identification, vehicle registration, and insurance information as requested.
  • Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. You do not have to answer questions that could incriminate you. You can politely decline to answer questions about where you've been, what you've had to drink, or other potentially self-incriminating inquiries.
  • Field Sobriety Tests and Breathalyzer: In Texas, you are not required to perform field sobriety tests (such as walking in a straight line) or take a roadside breathalyzer test. It's often advisable to decline these tests, as they are subjective and can be used against you. However, be aware that refusing a breathalyzer test could result in automatic license suspension.
  • Request an Attorney: If you are arrested, politely request an attorney. You have the right to legal representation. Once you request an attorney, law enforcement should stop questioning you. Do not make any statements until you've consulted with an attorney.
  • Booking and Bail: After your arrest, you will be taken to the police station or jail for booking. You may be held until you post bail, so it's essential to have a trusted friend or family member who can help with this process.
  • Secure Legal Representation: Hire an experienced DWI defense attorney in Texas. They will help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and build a strong defense for your case.
  • Driver's License Suspension: Be aware that your driver's license may be subject to suspension. In Texas, you have 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to contest the suspension of your driver's license.
  • Attend Court Proceedings: Your attorney will guide you through the legal process, which may include court appearances, plea negotiations, or a trial. It's essential to attend all required court hearings.
  • Comply with Court Orders: Follow any court orders, including probation, community service, or alcohol education programs, as directed by the court.
  • Explore Legal Options: Your attorney will examine the evidence, police procedures, and potential defenses to build a strong case. They may negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge or sentence, or they may take your case to trial if it's in your best interest.

Remember that the steps to address a DWI can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. It's critical to consult with an attorney who specializes in DWI defense to receive personalized advice and guidance tailored to your situation. A qualified attorney can help you navigate the legal process and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.


Have you been charged with a DWI in Texas? Call The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, PLLC today at (214) 903-7722 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DWI lawyer in Corsicana!


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

Contact our Corsicana DWI attorney today at (214) 903-7722 to schedule your free consultation!


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 Hire a DWI Lawyer in Navarro or Ellis County?

After an arrest, secure qualified legal counsel immediately. Our DUI/DWI lawyer in Corsicana 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 Corsicana.


  • Board Certified
  • Super Lawyers 2022
  • Rising Star Super Lawyer 2020
  • Super Lawyers 2021
  • Avvo - 10.0
  • Avvo Client's Choice
  • AVVO Top Contributor
  • American Institute of DUI Attorneys
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
  • Best of Reader's Choice Awards
  • NTL Top 100
  • SuperLawyers 2020

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 The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford Today!

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