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First Offense DWI in Texas

Consult Our Motivated and Aggressive Amarillo DWI Lawyer

They say that everything is bigger in Texas, and sometimes that is for the better, and other times for the worse. Out of all the states in the country, Texas has some of the harshest penalties in store for anyone convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI), even if it is the first offense on their driving or criminal record.

What can one person do when law enforcement officials and the criminal justice system are breathing down their neck, trying to bury them under heavy punishments? When you retain the services of Amarillo DWI Attorney D. Chris Hesse, you will receive professional and effective legal representation. We have committed 100% of our law firm to criminal defense, and we are not keen to surrendering or settling for "second best."

The people of the Texas Panhandle trust us due to our numerous accolades and achievements:

There is no time like the present to protect yourself. Call (806) 350-6785 today.

Excessive Penalties for First Time DWIs

Alcohol, car keys and handcuffs - first offense DWI in Texas

Everyone is capable of making a mistake, and who among us does not like the occasional drink with friends on a night out. If a police officer catches you behind the wheel with alcohol in your system, you can expect an arrest and harsh penalties to come your way. Believe it or not, even if your actions do not hurt anyone, the punishments you face will not lessen.

In the state of Texas, a first time DWI charge is a class B misdemeanor punishable by:

  • Up to 180 days in jail
  • $2,000 fine
  • 1-year license suspension
  • Mandatory DWI education course

If the driver's BAC level is above .15%, the charge will be increased to a class A misdemeanor and will be given harsher penalties.

Implied Consent in Texas

Under Texas implied consent law, all drivers have agreed to submitting to a breath or blood test when arrested for driving while intoxicated. Depending on your prior record, refusing to submit to a breathalyzer test or blood test can result in a license suspension of 180 days to two years.

How Can a DWI Charge be Reduced?

One strategy to fight your DWI charge is to get it reduced to a lesser charge. If you have been charged with DWI in Texas, it may be possible to plea bargain for a “wet reckless” charge. When a DWI charge is reduced to reckless driving it is referred to as “wet reckless.” With the help of our DWI attorney, you may be able to avoid the serious penalties of a DWI charge by plea bargaining for a wet reckless charge.

No Lookback Period in Texas

Many states will only consider a DWI conviction as “active on your record” for the extent of a lookback period of several years. In Texas, there is no lookback period. A first offense DWI in Texas will permanently be a problem for you, as it could add penalties to subsequent DWIs, even if they occur decades in the future. This is just one of the many reasons why you need to take your first time DWI offense case seriously and start thinking about how you can challenge it right away.

Our Focus is Criminal Defense, Our Objective is Your Freedom

No matter severely the charges against you may seem to be stacked in your disfavor, our DWI attorney in Amarillo will not back down. If a total dismissal of your charges is not on the table, we can push for a reduction of your charges, perhaps even letting you hold onto your driver’s license, and in turn, your livelihood.

Arrested for your first DWI offense? Contact us today to discuss your case in a free consultation!

Recent Reviews & Testimonials

  • He cares deeply for his clients

    “I am a Police Officer and after being dishonorably discharged from my agency on 10-13-16 Mr. Hesse was hired by me through the TMPA. Even though he is a criminal defense attorney he works hard for his clients, regardless who they are. Mr. Hesse went right to work and found 2 discrepancies committed by my agency. Mr. Hesse followed the agency's policy to appeal the termination to the letter, writing the city council, even when I was out of town. I decided I did not want work for that agency anymore and Mr. Hesse worked out a settlement that I could live with. A hearing was scheduled and nobody from my old agency showed. Instead they sent their attorney. As of 01-30-17 a SOAH Judge has ordered my dishonorable discharge to reflect an honorable discharge. Mr. Hesse was very professional and is a professional. He cares deeply for his clients and even talked to several Police Chiefs on my behalf attempting to find me jobs. I respect Mr. Hesse and would recommend Mr. Hesse to anyone who needs a good attorney. Thank you Mr. Hesse for all of your hard work in my case.”

    Terry

  • Great Guy!

    “I would recommend Chris to anyone he did a fantastic job on getting my sons DWI case dropped , he kept on the prosecution constantly . thanks for your help and representation on behalf of my son.”

    Bruce

  • Hesse is a great attorney!

    “I recommend Hesse He has gotten me out of a bind more than once.Trust he will get you out!”

    Anonymous

  • Mr. Hesse was very kind and helpful

    “Chris Hesse was such an amazing lawyer. He kept me informed about my case and replied to my messages as soon as possible. The case was intoxication assault 3rd degree felony which Mr. Hesse dismissed. Mr. Hesse was very kind and helpful every step of the way he is one professional lawyer anyone can depend on.”

    Chris

  • cares about his clients

    “Helped with a stack of motor vehicle charges. He worked out a plan that got them all cleared out. He cares about his clients and their outcomes and knows how to get results. Hopefully won't need his help again, but definitely would recommend it.”

    Michael