Waco Felony DWI Lawyer

A DWI conviction in Texas can lead to serious penalties, including up to 10 years in prison. While first—and second-time DWIs are misdemeanors, third-time DWI is a third-degree felony. Other circumstances that may turn the DWI into a felony are a child passenger and a serious injury.

Consider working with an experienced DWI attorney when you are arrested for driving while intoxicated. A Waco felony DWI lawyer could help you defend your rights throughout the case and prevent an unfair conviction.

Understanding Felony DWIs

Three situations exist where a misdemeanor DWI turns into a felony. These include the following:

Multiple Offenses

If a person has been convicted of DWI two or more times, they will be charged with a third-degree felony the next time. This felony has a mandatory sentence of two years in state prison. The maximum incarceration time on this charge is 10 years.

In addition, the person can face a fine of up to $10,000 and a license suspension for up to two years after leaving prison. Other penalties may include alcohol education programs and installing an ignition interlock device (IID).

A Child Passenger

If the person was driving while intoxicated with a passenger under 15 years of age, they could be charged with a state jail felony. In Texas, the penalty for a state jail felony is at least 180 days incarceration, with a maximum of two years. Other penalties include a fine of up to $10,000, license suspension, an alcohol education program, and an IID.

Intoxication Assault

If a person who is driving while intoxicated causes an accident that leads to serious injuries to another individual, they can be charged with intoxication assault, a third-degree felony. Penalties are the same as for a third-time DWI.

Without the assistance of a Waco felony DWI attorney, it may be impossible to build a strong defense that protects the accused from the maximum penalty.

Other Consequences of a DWI Conviction

Besides a prison term, a fine, and a license suspension, a person convicted of a felony could face serious consequences, including the following:

• Issues with child custody;
• Problems finding a good job after being released from prison;
• Difficulties with renting or leasing housing;
• The loss of the right to bear firearms (for a certain amount of time);
• Random drug testing ordered by the court; and
• Strict parole requirements.

These issues can have a long-term effect on a person’s quality of life. That is why it is essential to take well-thought-out action while there is still time. Speaking to a competent felony DWI lawyer in Waco as soon after the arrest as possible can open up multiple defense possibilities.

Get in Touch With a Waco Felony DWI Attorney Today

When you are arrested for driving while intoxicated, you may be charged with a felony. Depending on your criminal record and the circumstances of the crime, you could end up facing prison time. Work with a skilled legal team to fight for your rights. Without a lawyer with experience with the local criminal system, you may be unable to reduce the charges.

At The Greening Law Group, we have decades of experience helping people in Waco avoid unfair punishment for felony DWI crimes. Please call us anytime to schedule a complimentary consultation with our dedicated team of professionals.