DWI/DUI Defense in Lake Highlands, Texas
Expert Legal Representation from The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
If you’ve been arrested for a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge in Lake Highlands, Texas, time is of the essence. These charges can lead to severe penalties, including heavy fines, jail time, and the potential suspension of your driver’s license. At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we specialize in defending clients against DWI and DUI charges. With years of experience representing individuals in Lake Highlands, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping reduce the penalties you may face.
Understanding DWI/DUI Laws in Lake Highlands, Texas
In Lake Highlands, as throughout Texas, DWI and DUI charges are treated with the utmost seriousness. Whether this is your first offense or you have a prior record, having a skilled lawyer on your side is crucial. The legal team at The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC is well-versed in Texas DWI and DUI laws, and we are familiar with the local court system in Lake Highlands. Our goal is to guide you through the legal process, explain your options, and create a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
Categories of DWI/DUI Charges and Their Consequences
First-Time DWI – Class B Misdemeanor
A first-time DWI charge in Lake Highlands is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor. Penalties can include at least 72 hours in jail, fines, probation, and suspension of your driver’s license. Our experienced attorneys will work to challenge the evidence against you and fight for a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
DWI with Open Alcohol Container – Enhanced Class B Misdemeanor
If an open alcohol container is found in your vehicle during a DWI stop, your charge could be elevated to an aggravated Class B misdemeanor. This offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of six days in jail. Our legal team will closely analyze your case to identify any defenses and work toward reducing the potential penalties.
High BAC (0.15% or Greater) – Class A Misdemeanor
If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.15% or higher, you will face a Class A misdemeanor charge, which brings more severe penalties, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and possible extended license suspensions. We will scrutinize the BAC test results and arrest conditions to minimize the impact of these enhanced penalties.
Texas BAC Standards and Testing Procedures
In Texas, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%. However, even if your BAC is under 0.08%, you can still be arrested if the officer believes you are impaired. Our legal team will investigate the testing procedures involved in your case, including breathalyzer calibration, the accuracy of test administration, and other related factors. We ensure that the evidence against you is sound and challenge any inconsistencies.
Key Defense Strategies We May Use
- Challenging the Stop
We will examine whether the officer had a valid reason to stop your vehicle in the first place. If the stop was unlawful, any evidence collected afterward may be inadmissible, which could result in the dismissal of your case. - Reviewing Test Procedures
Our team will carefully analyze how sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, and blood tests were administered. If there were errors in the testing process, we could challenge the validity of the results, which could weaken the prosecution’s case against you. - Assessing Field Sobriety Test Conditions
Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be affected by weather, medical conditions, or even anxiety. We will look into these factors to determine if they impacted your performance and contributed to inaccurate results. - Medical Conditions That Mimic Intoxication
Conditions like diabetes, acid reflux, or other medical issues can create symptoms similar to those of intoxication. We will review your medical history and consult with medical experts to determine if a medical condition could explain the symptoms observed during your arrest. - Exploring Alternative Legal Solutions
Texas offers programs such as deferred adjudication and pre-trial diversion for first-time offenders. These programs can help you avoid a criminal conviction by completing certain requirements. Our attorneys will explore these options to prevent long-term consequences, such as a permanent criminal record.
Distinction Between DUI and DWI in Lake Highlands, Texas
Understanding the difference between DUI and DWI charges is vital when building your defense strategy:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence): This charge typically applies to individuals under 21 who have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system, even if they are not visibly impaired.
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): This charge applies to individuals of all ages who are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any combination of substances, including prescription drugs and illegal substances.
Factors That Can Increase Penalties and Charges
Several factors may increase the severity of your DWI or DUI charges in Lake Highlands:
- Prior Convictions
Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended driver’s license suspensions. - Accidents Involving Injury or Death
If your DWI or DUI results in an accident that causes injury or death, you may face felony charges, which come with significant penalties such as lengthy prison sentences. - Open Alcohol Containers in the Vehicle
If law enforcement finds an open alcohol container in your vehicle during a stop, it could lead to increased fines, longer license suspensions, and additional jail time. - Child Passengers Under 15 Years Old
If you are arrested for DWI and have a child passenger under 15 years old, mandatory jail time and heightened penalties apply.
Our legal team is dedicated to minimizing the impact of these aggravating factors and fighting for a fair resolution in your case.
Why Lake Highlands Residents Choose The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
- In-Depth Knowledge of Texas DWI/DUI Laws
Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients in DWI and DUI cases across Texas, including Lake Highlands. We understand both state and local laws, which enables us to provide effective legal strategies for your case. - Aggressive Legal Representation
We provide aggressive defense to protect your rights and ensure you are treated fairly during the legal process. - Personalized Defense Strategies
No two cases are alike. We take the time to understand the specifics of your case and develop a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances and goals. - Proven Track Record of Success
With a history of favorable outcomes in DWI and DUI cases in Lake Highlands and surrounding areas, we are committed to helping our clients achieve the best possible results.
Take Action – Schedule Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a DWI or DUI in Lake Highlands, Texas, don’t delay in seeking legal assistance. Early intervention can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
📞 Call The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC at 469-772-5806 or contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the complexities of DWI and DUI charges in Lake Highlands, Texas, and will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.