Schertz, TX DWI Defense Lawyer
Attorney for Clients Facing DWI Charges in Schertz, Texas
In Texas, criminal charges for driving while intoxicated (DWI) will generally involve accusations that a person has operated a vehicle on public roads while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, other factors may affect a case, causing charges to become more serious. Related offenses may include intoxication assault, which involves causing injury to another person, and intoxication manslaughter in which DWI allegedly led to someone's death. Additionally, people can face charges for boating while intoxicated (BWI).
At the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock, we understand the complexities surrounding these offenses, and we are dedicated to providing clients with the legal guidance necessary to aggressively and strategically fight DWI charges. We provide effective legal guidance to clients facing various criminal charges, including white-collar crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, and more.
Understanding DWI and its Consequences
A person may be charged with DWI if they are accused of driving a motor vehicle while they had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher or while impaired by drugs or other substances. The penalties you may face if you are convicted of DWI in Texas may include fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Intoxication Assault: When DWI Leads to a Bodily Injury
Accusations of causing another person to suffer serious bodily harm while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will result in more serious charges than would apply in many other DWI cases. This is considered a third-degree felony, which carries penalties of two to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
If you have been charged with intoxication assault, it is crucial to understand that you have the right to defend yourself against these very serious allegations. Potential defenses may include challenging the evidence obtained from field sobriety tests or arguing that the injury was not directly caused by your actions.
Intoxication Manslaughter: The Grave Consequences of Impaired Driving
Even more serious than intoxication assault is intoxication manslaughter, which may apply if you have been accused of causing someone's death while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This offense is classified as a second-degree felony in Texas, and it carries severe penalties, including two to 20 years in prison and fines potentially reaching $10,000.
The emotional and legal ramifications of an intoxication manslaughter charge can be overwhelming. If you find yourself in this position, legal representation is vital to ensure that your rights and interests are protected. Defenses in these cases may revolve around disputing the connection between intoxication and a person's fatality.
Boating While Intoxicated
In addition to DWI charges for people who drive land vehicles, Texas law also addresses the operation of boats while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Boating while intoxicated (BWI) is treated similarly to DWI, with the same intoxication threshold of 0.08 percent applying. Like DWI, BWI can result in fines and jail time.
There are several potential defenses against BWI charges, just as there are DWI. For example, we may argue that you were not operating the vessel at the time of the alleged offense, or we may challenge the accuracy of breath or blood test results.
The Value of an Experienced DWI Attorney
With a deep understanding of Texas laws and local court procedures, our attorney can provide invaluable insight into your case. His knowledge allows him to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, such as flawed evidence or improper police procedures. Furthermore, we have robust resources and can provide access to professional witnesses, including toxicologists and accident reconstruction professionals, to support your defense. We will work to negotiate plea deals on our behalf, potentially minimizing penalties like fines, jail time, and license suspension. Our experience and resources can dramatically impact the outcome of your case, and we are ready to fight for your rights.
Contact Our Schertz DWI Defense Attorney
If you are facing DWI-related charges in Schertz, TX, it is imperative to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable legal professional. At the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock, our dedicated team is here to support you through every step of your case. Do not hesitate to reach out to 210-226-0965 for a private consultation to discuss your case and explore the best avenues for defense.