DWI/DUI

Denton County Criminal Defense Attorney

Drunk Driving Defense | Administrative License Revocation

If you are arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) and it is your first offense, you may not fully understand the seriousness of the charges filed against you or the importance of retaining an attorney to protect your rights.

Texas DWI/DUI Penalties

Texas law sets harsh penalties for DWI and DUI convictions, including license suspension, stiff fines and possible jail sentences, even for the first offense. The penalties escalate sharply, if the charge is a second or third offense. If your arrest is a third offense, or if someone was injured or killed, you will face felony charges. A drunk driving conviction not only will remain on your record forever, but you will also have to cope with a long list of other consequences including:

• Driver Responsibility Tax (up to $2000)
• Vehicle Immobilization or Impoundment
• Alcohol Abuse Assessment & Treatment
• Insurance Rate Increase
• Cancellation of Car Insurance
• Mandatory Alcohol Safety School
• Job Loss
• Mandatory Community Service

A DWI offense in Texas results in two separate cases – a criminal and a civil matter related to your driver’s license and driving record. At the time of your arrest, the police officer will take your driver’s license and issue a temporary driving permit that expires in 41 days.

Legal Services to Protect Your Rights

At the Law Office of Howard E. Watt, P. C., our criminal defense attorneys defend and protect the rights of clients accused of DUI and DWI offenses throughout Denton County, including the towns of Lewisville, Flower Mound, Sanger, Justin, Highland Village and Carrollton.

The legal services our attorneys offer include challenging the criminal charges and representation at Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearings.

Dealing With ALR

Under Texas statutes, an ALR suspension is automatic unless you request (in writing) a hearing to address the suspension. If you do not request a hearing within the 15-day time limit, your license suspension will begin on the 41st day after the Department of Safety receives a suspension notice from the arresting agency. The Department usually receives notice the day of your arrest.

Never Assume You Have No Legal Defense

You should never plead guilty to DWI charges, assuming you do not have a possible defense. Breathalyzers are not infallible, correct procedures are not always followed and frequently DWI charges stem from illegal traffic stops, where a police officer pulls you over without probable cause or reasonable suspicion.

When you need legal help, you can count on the criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of Howard E. Watt, P. C.’s. You will find substantial skills derived from more than 35 years of experience. As a former prosecutor and a municipal judge for many years, Mr. Watt is well known and respected in the Denton County judicial system. He will work with prosecutors and the court on your behalf, seeking viable alternatives to harsh sentences and loss of driving privileges. Our criminal defense attorneys will aggressively fight to protect your legal rights and work to achieve the best results possible.

Legal Defense for DWI/DUI Charges

When you are arrested for drunk driving, your freedom, your job and your reputation are in jeopardy. Call our Denton law firm at (940) 387-0565, our Metro number at (972) 434-3830 or (800) 685-5785 to arrange a consultation. Learn how an experienced DUI and DWI attorney can make a difference in the outcome of your case.

Texas criminal defense attorneys offer legal services in the areas of DUI, DWI for clients throughout Denton County including the towns of Carrollton, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Justin, Lewisville and Sanger.