In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense with strict penalties. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, over 90,000 DWI arrests occur annually in the state, many in San Antonio. Therefore, you need an experienced DWI lawyer to help you with your defense strategy.
Understanding what happens after a DWI arrest is critical to protecting your rights and building a defense. So, let’s find out.
The DWI Arrest and Booking Process
After a DWI arrest, law enforcement officers will typically:
- Transport You to Jail: You’ll be taken to a local detention center for booking.
- Perform Chemical Testing: Blood or breath tests are conducted to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
- Begin Booking Procedures: Booking involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information.
In some cases, you may be released on bond shortly after the arrest.
Administrative License Suspension (ALS)
In Texas, a DWI arrest triggers two processes: the criminal case and an administrative case. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) may suspend your driver’s license through an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process. This can happen if:
- Your BAC exceeds 0.08%.
- You refuse to take a chemical test under Texas’s implied consent laws.
To contest the suspension, you must request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest. Failure to act will result in an automatic license suspension.
Court Hearings and Legal Process
The criminal aspect of a DWI arrest involves several steps:
- Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where charges are formally presented.
- Pre-Trial Motions: YourDWI attorneycan file motions to challenge evidence, such as field sobriety tests or BAC results.
- Trial or Plea Bargain: Depending on the circumstances, your case may go to trial, or you might negotiate a plea deal to reduce charges or penalties.
How a DWI Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a skilled DWI lawyer is essential to navigating the legal process. An experienced criminal defense attorney in Texas can:
- Challenge Evidence: They can dispute the accuracy of BAC tests, field sobriety tests, and the reason for the traffic stop.
- Negotiate Penalties: They may negotiate for reduced charges or penalties, such as probation instead of jail time.
- Represent You in Court: ADWI lawyer will advocate for your rights and build a strong defense.
Taking Action After Your DWI Arrest
After a DWI arrest in San Antonio, act quickly to protect your rights:
- Request an ALR Hearing: Contest your license suspension within 15 days.
- Hire aDWI Attorney: Seek legal counsel as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
- Follow Court Requirements: Attend all hearings and comply with any conditions set by the court.
Get Help From Criminal Defense Lawyer In Texas For DWI Arrest
A DWI arrest in San Antonio can have severe consequences, but understanding the process and acting promptly can make a significant difference. The Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates is here to help. With 30 years of experience as a trusted DWI lawyer in San Antonio, we can guide you through every step of the process.
Don’t face this alone—contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
