Drug DWI Attorney in Ellis County
Drug DWI Defense from a Board-Certified Criminal Lawyer in Ellis County
A drug DWI charge can put your freedom, driving privileges, and record at risk. At The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, we examine the traffic stop, officer observations, field sobriety testing, DRE evaluations, and toxicology evidence to build a defense tailored to the facts of your case.
Call (214) 903-7722 now or contact us online for a free consultation. Bilingual support is available in English and Spanish.
Understanding DWI with Drugs Laws in Texas
Texas Penal Code § 49.04 applies when a person operates a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. The definition of “intoxicated” under Texas Penal Code § 49.01(2) is broad and specifically includes substances other than alcohol. You can be charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) if you don’t have the normal use of your mental or physical faculties because of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance introduced into the body.
- Any Substance: The law specifies “a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance.” This includes:
- Illegal drugs (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin).
- Prescription medications (even if lawfully prescribed and taken as directed, if they impair your driving ability).
- Over-the-counter medications (e.g., cold medicine, antihistamines).
- Other substances (e.g., huffing inhalants).
- Evidence of Impairment: Unlike alcohol DWI cases that may rely on a breath-test concentration reading, drug DWI cases typically require the prosecution to build its impairment case from multiple sources. A positive test result and proof of legal intoxication at the time of driving are separate evidentiary questions. Evidence commonly used includes:
- Officer Observations: Erratic driving, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, poor coordination, mood changes.
- Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): Performance on standardized tests (Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk-and-Turn, One-Leg Stand) or non-standardized tests.
- Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Evaluations: Officers trained as DREs conduct a 12-step evaluation process, including eye exams, vital sign checks, and psychophysical tests, to determine whether a driver appears impaired and which category of drugs might be involved.
- Chemical Tests (Blood/Urine): These tests detect the presence of drugs in your system. Unlike breath tests for alcohol, blood or urine tests are commonly used to detect drugs.
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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
Penalties for Drug DWI Convictions in Texas
A standard first-offense DWI under Texas Penal Code § 49.04 is generally a Class B misdemeanor, but the charge and possible sentence depend on the allegations and the defendant’s history. Under Texas Penal Code § 49.09, prior intoxication-related convictions can enhance a later DWI to a Class A misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the prior-conviction history.
- Jail Time: A standard first offense carries a minimum of 72 hours and up to 180 days in county jail. The minimum increases to six days if an open container is present.
- Fines: Up to $2,000 for a standard first offense.
- License Consequences: An Administrative License Revocation proceeding may apply, and a conviction can carry separate license consequences. The duration depends on the circumstances and applicable law.
- Mandatory State Fine: Under Texas Transportation Code § 709.001, a conviction triggers a mandatory fine of $3,000 for a first conviction within a 36-month period, $4,500 for a subsequent conviction within 36 months, or $6,000 if the offense involved a blood, breath, or urine alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher. This fine is separate from any criminal fine imposed by the court.
- DWI Education Program: A 12-hour program may be required.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Possible installation as a condition of bond or community supervision.
- Community Supervision: If ordered, conditions may include community service, attendance at Victim Impact Panels, and drug or alcohol assessments.
- DWI with Child Passenger (under 15 years old): This is a state jail felony, even if it’s your first DWI, and carries 180 days to two years in state jail.
- Intoxication Assault (causing serious bodily injury): A third-degree felony carrying two to 10 years in prison.
- Intoxication Manslaughter (causing death): A second-degree felony carrying two to 20 years in prison.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance: If drugs are found during the DWI investigation, you may face a separate possession charge with additional potential penalties. That allegation requires its own analysis of possession, testing, search, and seizure evidence.
Administrative license proceedings are separate from the criminal case, and their deadlines depend on the notice and testing circumstances.
Ellis County Courts & What to Expect
Felony DWI cases in Ellis County may be handled by the 40th or 443rd Judicial District Courts, depending on the charge and applicable local judicial agreements. A case can move through several stages: initial investigation, bond conditions, discovery review, pretrial hearings, evidentiary motions, negotiations, and, when necessary, trial preparation. The procedural path depends on the charged offense level, prior history, and case-specific allegations.
Attorney Michael J. Crawford is a fifth-generation resident of Ellis and Navarro Counties, and our office is one block from the courthouse. At the outset, we assess the charge, evidence, testing, and any related allegations to map the next steps in your defense.
More Than 5,000 Cases & More Than 350 Criminal Jury Trials
Attorney Crawford is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Our firm has handled more than 5,000 cases and taken more than 350 criminal cases to jury trials.
Attorney Crawford is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and Texas DUI/DWI Lawyers Association.
For a DWI involving drugs, we can review the traffic stop, alleged operation of the vehicle, officer observations, field sobriety testing, DRE procedures, blood or urine collection, laboratory methods, chain of custody, and the relationship between a detected substance and the alleged intoxication.
If you’re facing a drug DWI charge, Contact us online today or call (214) 903-7722 to schedule your consultation. We can review the allegations, testing evidence, and immediate deadlines with you.
Why Choose The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford?
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A Powerful Defense Team Working for You
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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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Handled over 5000 Cases and Over 350 Criminal Cases Taken to Jury Trials
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Extensive Courtroom Experience and Longstanding Reputation with Local Judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Drug DWI cases raise immediate questions about evidence, licensing, and possible penalties. These answers provide general information, but the facts of your case control. Contact us now for a case-specific review.
How Can a Drug DWI Lawyer Help with My Case?
Our drug DWI attorneys examine every detail of the arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop, testing procedures, and the qualifications of any DRE involved. We challenge weak or improperly gathered evidence and pursue a charge reduction, dismissal, or alternative sentencing when the facts and law support it. We also assess your prior history and the specific evidence to identify the available defense options.
Can I Avoid Jail Time If Convicted of Drug DWI?
Alternatives to incarceration, such as community supervision (probation) or court-approved treatment programs, may be available depending on the charged offense, your prior record, statutory eligibility, and the court’s decision. We can present mitigating factors and argue for available sentencing alternatives, but we don’t promise a specific outcome.
