DWI/DUI Defense in Ingram Hills, Texas
Expert Legal Representation from The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
Being charged with a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Ingram Hills, Texas, can have serious consequences, impacting your personal freedom, finances, and future. At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing effective and aggressive legal defense strategies to help you navigate this difficult process. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and minimize the consequences you may face.
Understanding Local DWI/DUI Laws in Ingram Hills
In Ingram Hills, as well as across Texas, DWI and DUI offenses are taken very seriously by law enforcement and the courts. Whether this is your first offense or you have prior charges, our legal team will help you understand the legal process and ensure you receive the best defense possible. Our attorneys are well-versed in Texas DWI and DUI laws and will fight for a favorable resolution in your case.
Categories of Charges and Their Consequences
First-Time DWI – Class B Misdemeanor
A first-time DWI charge in Ingram Hills is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This can result in mandatory penalties such as a minimum of 72 hours in jail, fines, probation, and a potential suspension of your driver’s license. Our attorneys are prepared to challenge the evidence and work toward reducing or dismissing the charges.
DWI with Open Alcohol Container – Enhanced Class B Misdemeanor
If law enforcement finds an open alcohol container in your vehicle during a DWI stop, your charge may be enhanced to an aggravated Class B misdemeanor. This charge carries a minimum of six days in jail due to the added risk factors of an open alcohol container. We will thoroughly review the circumstances surrounding your arrest to build a strong defense.
High BAC (0.15% or Greater) – Class A Misdemeanor
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15% or higher can lead to a Class A misdemeanor charge, resulting in stricter penalties such as longer jail time, higher fines, and an extended suspension of your driver’s license. We will closely analyze your case and challenge any evidence that could minimize these severe penalties.
Texas BAC Standards and Testing Procedures
Texas law defines intoxication as a BAC of 0.08% or higher. However, even if your BAC is lower, you can still be arrested and charged with DWI if an officer believes you are impaired. Our legal team will review the accuracy of BAC testing methods, including the calibration of breathalyzers and the procedures followed during your arrest, to ensure that evidence against you is valid and reliable.
Key Defense Strategies We May Use
Challenging the Reason for the Stop
One of the first things we will examine is whether the officer had a valid reason to stop your vehicle. If there was no probable cause for the stop, any evidence gathered could be inadmissible, potentially leading to a dismissal of your case.
Reviewing Test Procedures
We will carefully review the administration of sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or blood tests to ensure they were conducted properly. If any errors or irregularities occurred, we will use that information to challenge the evidence presented against you.
Assessing Field Sobriety Conditions
Field sobriety tests can be influenced by various factors, such as poor lighting, medical conditions, or anxiety. We will evaluate whether these factors played a role in your test performance, which may help in casting doubt on the results.
Medical Conditions That Resemble Impairment
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or acid reflux, can cause symptoms similar to intoxication. Our team will investigate whether your medical history may explain the symptoms officers observed during your arrest.
Exploring Alternative Legal Solutions
For first-time offenders, Texas offers alternative legal options such as deferred adjudication or pre-trial diversion. These programs allow eligible individuals to avoid a criminal conviction by completing certain requirements. We will explore these options to reduce the long-term consequences of your charge.
Distinction Between DUI and DWI in Ingram Hills, Texas
It’s important to understand the difference between DUI and DWI charges:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence): This charge typically applies to minors under 21 who have any measurable amount of alcohol in their system, even if they are not visibly impaired.
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): This charge applies to drivers of any age who are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances. This includes prescription medications or illegal drugs.
Understanding the distinction between DUI and DWI is crucial, as it affects the legal strategy and potential defenses available to you.
Factors That Can Escalate Charges and Penalties
Several factors can increase the severity of DWI or DUI charges in Ingram Hills, Texas:
- Prior Convictions
Repeat DWI or DUI offenders face harsher penalties, such as longer jail sentences, higher fines, and a longer suspension of your driver’s license. - Accidents Involving Injury or Death
If your DWI or DUI causes an accident that results in injury or death, you may be charged with a felony, carrying significantly more severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences. - Open Alcohol Containers in the Vehicle
If law enforcement finds an open container of alcohol in your vehicle during the stop, this can lead to additional penalties, including higher fines and an extended license suspension. - Child Passengers Under 15 Years Old
If there is a child passenger under the age of 15 in your vehicle during the arrest, Texas law mandates mandatory jail time and higher fines.
Our skilled attorneys will work to minimize the impact of these aggravating factors and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Why Ingram Hills Residents Choose The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
Extensive Knowledge of Texas DWI/DUI Laws
Our team of experienced attorneys understands the intricacies of Texas DWI and DUI laws and has a proven track record of success in defending clients in Ingram Hills.
Aggressive Legal Defense
We are committed to providing strong, aggressive legal representation to protect your rights and future.
Personalized Legal Strategies
Every case is different, and we take the time to understand the specific circumstances of your case. We work closely with you to develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique needs.
Proven Success in DWI/DUI Cases
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC has a history of successfully defending clients in Ingram Hills against DWI and DUI charges.
Take Action – Schedule Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a DWI or DUI in Ingram Hills, it’s crucial to act quickly. Early legal intervention can significantly improve the outcome of your case.
📞 Call The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC at 430-202-6461 or contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
Our experienced team is here to help guide you through the complexities of DWI and DUI charges in Ingram Hills and protect your future.