Choosing the right defense attorney to represent you in a DWI case can be daunting. There are many factors to take into account when selecting the best Fort Worth DWI lawyer for your particular situation. So how do you find the best Fort Worth DWI attorney for your case?
Before we get into the specifics, let’s first identify the benefits of having a defense attorney who specializes in DWI cases. Read along as Cole Paschall Law outlines the benefits of enlisting the help of a qualified defense attorney when facing a DWI charge.
The Benefits of Using an Expert Witness in a DUI/DWI Case
It can be extremely frustrating and intimidating to face a DWI charge. But utilizing the help of an experienced defense attorney can put you in the best position possible to avoid a conviction. Additionally, having an expert witness knowledgeable in DWI defense can greatly improve your chances of success. Here’s why:
1. Invaluable testimony
Having an expert witness at your defense can provide invaluable testimony to the court. An experienced defense attorney understands the nuances of DWI defense and can provide expert, trustworthy testimony that may result in a favorable outcome for you. Additionally, an expert witness can refute any of the prosecution’s claims and provide defense-focused evidence.
2. Building a defense strategy
Additionally, it can also help to build a strong defense strategy tailored to the particulars of your case. With their expertise, they can assist in developing an effective defense that could mean the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.
3. Provide strong evidence
An expert witness can also provide strong evidence to support your defense. An attorney who specializes in DWI defense will be familiar with the latest research and developments in the field, allowing them to present up-to-date information to support your defense.
4. Best defense practices
When it comes to DWI defense, a Fort Worth DWI specialist understands the best defense practices for your particular case and can use those strategies to your advantage. An experienced defense attorney will also be familiar with local laws and regulations related to DUI/DWI cases and can use this knowledge to better defend you in court.
5. Knowledge of DWI defense laws and techniques
With the right DWI lawyer, you have the advantage of their knowledge of DWI defense laws and techniques. Additionally, an expert witness can also provide insight into defense strategies that can be used to combat the prosecution’s case.
6. Understanding of defense strategies and tactics
Having a defense lawyer with extensive experience in the DWI criminal justice system can make all the difference when it comes to strategies and tactics. Aside from your lawyer, an expert witness can also offer insight into the defense techniques and strategies that can be used to make a compelling case.
7. An advocate for your interests
With the help of an expert witness, you can rest assured that your defense attorney is acting as an advocate for your best interests. With their knowledge and experience, they will be able to present a defense that is tailored specifically to your case.
Why Is an Expert Witness Testimony Beneficial in a Texas DUI/DWI Case?
In Fort Worth TX, defense lawyers have the experience and resources necessary to build a defense that is tailored to your particular needs.
But aside from an experienced criminal defense attorney, having an experienced witness at your disposal can offer invaluable assistance in your defense. An expert witness can provide testimony about DWI defense laws and strategies that could make all the difference when it comes to avoiding a conviction.
Additionally, specialized expertise from an experienced defense attorney can give you the edge when it comes to defending against a DUI/DWI charge. An experienced Fort Worth DWI specialist will give you the best chance at a successful outcome. They understand how to navigate DWI defense laws, communicate defense strategies to the court, and have a deep understanding of defense tactics.
So when choosing a defense attorney for your DWI case, make sure to select one that has experience and expertise in the area of defense law. This will ensure that you are getting the most out of your defense strategy and building a strong defense that can lead to a successful outcome.
Find an attorney who focuses exclusively on defending DWI and DUI cases
When you are looking for a defense attorney to represent you in a DWI case, it is important to find one who focuses exclusively on defending DUI and DWI charges. Only an attorney with this level of experience will have the expertise required to properly represent your case and increase your chances of success. But how exactly to choose the right Fort Worth DWI specialist for your case? Here are some helpful tips:
1. Look for experience
When selecting a defense attorney, it is important to find one with experience in DWI defense. Look for an attorney who has handled multiple cases of this type and can demonstrate a successful track record. You must also make sure that the defense attorney is well-versed in the latest changes to DWI defense laws.
2. Research their credentials
Before talking to defense attorneys, you should do some research on their credentials. Check to see if they have any certifications or awards that show their expertise in DWI defense or other criminal law defenses.
Additionally, look into any professional organizations they may belong to and make sure they stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. Being part of the National Trial Lawyers Association is always a good sign, and an assistant criminal district attorney experience can be a major plus.
3. Ask questions and read reviews
There’s nothing more helpful than the opinions and experiences of others. Ask around to see what people have to say about criminal defense services in your area or read reviews online. You can also ask questions directly to defense attorneys during consultations so that you can get a better sense of their expertise and how they may be able to help with your case whether you’re in Fort Worth or in Tarrant County.
What is The Punishment for DWI in Texas?
The consequences of being found guilty of drunk driving mostly depend on the specifics of the case as well as the defendant’s criminal history. The following are the penalties:
First DWI Conviction
First-time DUI offenders will be charged with a Class B misdemeanor and may receive a penalty of up to $2,000 in fines and/or up to 180 days in prison. Additionally, those found guilty of this crime may have their driving privileges suspended for up to a year. A first offense also entails three years of annual surcharges that range from $1,000 to $2,000 per year.
First Offense for BAC of.15 or More
If a chemical test revealed that the defendant’s blood alcohol content level was 0.15 or above, the charges for a first offense might be upgraded to a Class A misdemeanor, which carries essentially the same punishments as a conviction for a second DWI.
Second DWI Conviction
This offense carries a class A misdemeanor sentence of up to a year in jail, a two-year license suspension, up to a $4,000 fine, and/or both. Additionally, there are three-year yearly surcharges that range from $1,000 to $2,000 for a second DWI conviction.
Third DWI Conviction
Any subsequent DUI-related violation, including a third infraction, is deemed a third-degree felony and is punishable by two to 10 years in jail, a two-year license suspension, and/or a $10,000 fine. Up to $2,000 in annual surcharges are possible over the course of three years.
Probation, community supervision, community service, ignition interlock devices, drug and alcohol education programs, DWI schools, annual surcharges, additional court costs, and fines are just a few examples of additional associated punishments. Additionally, even after a person has fulfilled their sentence, a DWI conviction can have a severe effect on their life.
Texas DWI Surcharges
If you are found guilty of DWI, the State of Texas will also impose an annual surcharge fee that must be paid to the Texas Department of Public Safety in addition to the criminal penalties you will face. You must pay this administrative fee for three years in order to keep your driver’s license active. Your license will be automatically suspended until all payments have been made if you don’t pay the surcharges or engage into a payment arrangement.
Whether this is your first DWI, second DWI, or any subsequent DWI, or whether it is shown that you had a blood alcohol content of.16 or greater, will determine the costs associated with a DWI conviction.
The following are the Texas DWI surcharges that must be paid to the Texas Department of Public Safety:
- First-time DUI offenders pay a $1,000 annual surcharge ($3,000 total).
- Driving After Having Been Drunk for Two or More Seconds: $1,500 Annual Surcharge ($4,500 Total)
- DWI with a.16 or higher blood alcohol content: $2,000 annual fee ($6,000 total)
Types of DWI Offenses in Texas
Additional typical DWI crimes in Texas include the following:
- Underage DWI: An underage DWI is a Class C misdemeanor that carries a $500 maximum fine, alcohol awareness classes, 20 to 40 hours of community service, and a driver’s license suspension as penalties.
- Intoxication Assault – This offense is classified as either a third-degree or second-degree felony depending on the level of bodily injury. A felony charge can limit an individual’s housing, employment, and educational opportunities.
- Intoxication Manslaughter – A first-time DUI Manslaughter offense is a second-degree felony. The offense involves an intoxicated or impaired driver operating a motor vehicle and the unintentional or accidental death of another person because of the intoxication.
- DWI with a Child Passenger – Texas Penal Code §49.045 addresses DWI with a child passenger. The law indicates that a person commits the offense when he or she is intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle in a public space and the passenger is younger than fifteen (15) years of age.
- Drug Related DWI – Per Tex. Pen. Code §49.09 a person can be charged with a DWI if he or she was driving or operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance.
List of Questions You Should Ask Your Defense Attorney
Finding the right defense attorney is essential to your defense strategy. To ensure you are hiring the best defense attorney for your DWI case, be sure to ask these questions during consultations:
1. What experience do you have in defending DUI/DWI cases?
This aims to determine how well-versed they are in defense techniques and strategies.
2. How many DUI/DWI cases have you handled?
It is also important to take note of the number of DUI/DWI cases the defense attorney has handled in the past. This will help you get a better understanding of their experience.
3. What defense strategies do you think will work best for my case?
To have initial knowledge of defense strategies that may be effective for your defense, it is important to ask defense attorneys what defense strategies they think will work best for your particular case.
4. How much do you charge for DUI/DWI defense?
Budgeting is one of the main concerns when hiring defense attorneys. Asking defense attorneys about their rates can help you determine which one is more suitable for your financial capacity.
5. Will you be available for all court appearances?
Of course, your defense attorney must be available to represent you during court appearances. Ask defense attorneys if they can commit to attending all court proceedings.
6. Are you up-to-date on the latest DWI defense laws?
Asking this will show that the defense attorney is able to provide defense strategies that are in line with the latest legal developments.
7. How do you typically approach defense strategies?
With this question, you will be able to understand how your defense attorney works and how they plan on using defense strategies in your case.
8. What results did you achieve for your previous clients?
You would also want to know how successful defense attorneys were in their previous cases.
9. Do you have any other resources to help with my defense strategy?
Aside from defense strategies, defense attorneys may have other resources to help with your defense. The best Fort Worth DWI specialist will be able to provide additional assistance.
10. Do you have any other defense attorneys or experts on your team?
Having a defense attorney with a team of law firm of criminal defense attorneys and experts helps to ensure that you have access to the best defense strategies available.
Asking these questions will help you get a better understanding of defense attorneys’ expertise and capabilities and help you determine which one is the best fit for your defense strategy.
Keep in mind that Fort Worth DWI lawyers have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to do your research thoroughly before making a decision. The right criminal defense attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case, so choosing the right defense attorney is essential.
DUI in Texas
Aside from domestic violence and some offenses that fall under the personal injury law, DUI or DWI (driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated) is also considered as a serious offense in Texas. Consequences for DUI/DWI convictions can include jail time, license suspension, and fines.
The law enforcement officer who initiated the arrest will present all evidence against you to prosecutors, so it is important to have an experienced defense attorney who knows how to challenge the evidence. The defense attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors to determine a suitable outcome for your case.
Choosing the best defense attorney for your DWI case is essential to ensure that you have access to the most effective defense strategies available. Having the right defense attorney on your side will maximize your chances of getting a favorable outcome.
Cole Paschall Law is a Forth Worth defense firm that specializes in DWI defense. Our team of defense attorneys is experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to the latest defense strategies. We understand how difficult this situation can be, which is why our lawyers will work their hardest to provide you with the best defense possible.
Contact us today for a free consultation and more information about our Fort Worth DWI specialist and other defense services.
