Everything You Need to Know about a DWI Charge

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If you have been charged with DWI, you may be inclined to take your knocks and put the matter behind you as quickly as possible. The fact is, however, that a DWI conviction can haunt you into your future in ways you may not recognize. In addition to the penalties you face, there are serious social consequences to consider. All told, you are well-advised to reconsider your stance and move forward with an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner.

The Basics

If you are facing a DWI Charge, the basic fines and penalties for a conviction include:

  • For a first offense, you face up to $2,000 in fines, up to 180 days in jail – with a mandatory three days – and loss of your driver’s license for up to a year.

  • For a second offense, you face up to $4,000 in fines, from one month to a year in jail, and loss of your driver’s license for up to two years.

  • For a third offense, you face up to $10,000 in fines, from two to ten years in jail, and loss of your driver’s license for up to two years.

Related: A DWI Charge: Will You Go to Jail?

There are also sentencing enhancements for DWI with a child passenger, which is a felony charge.

In addition to the stark legal consequences of a DWI conviction, there are the very real social consequences that can follow a conviction, including:

  • Because your criminal record is a matter of public record, you can face a difficult time finding and keeping a new job. This is especially pertinent if the position requires a security clearance. (How a Texas Criminal Record Can Derail Your Life)

  • A DWI conviction can also affect your ability to maintain your professional licensure.

  • Potential landlords may not rent to tenants with criminal records, including DWI convictions.

  • A conviction can also thwart your plans to obtain a mortgage for a new home.

  • Having a DWI on your record can affect your ability to get into the college of your choice, obtain federal student loans, and/or live on campus. (Read more: A DWI Conviction Can Damage Your College Career)

  • A DWI conviction can affect your social standing generally, and your former circle of acquaintances and contacts may not accept you in the same way that they used to.

For a felony DWI conviction, your right to own a gun and even to vote can be affected. All told, the consequences of being convicted for driving while intoxicated are far too significant to leave to chance.

Seek the Professional Legal Counsel of an Experienced Killeen Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you are facing a DWI charge, Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard – proudly serving Killeen, Texas – is a practiced criminal defense attorney who is committed to engaging his impressive experience in pursuit of your case’s best possible resolution. Our compassionate legal team is standing by to help, so please do not hesitate to reach out and contact or call us at 254-501-4040 for more information today.

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