Here to Protect Your Rights and Freedoms
The consequences of a driving while intoxicated (DWI) conviction in Texas can be extremely serious, so you need to be aware of them. Manske & Manske can give you the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision about the course of action you want to pursue.
Our criminal defense attorneys have nearly 100 years of combined criminal law experience, and we have defended countless clients against DWI (often called DUI) charges. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about avoiding or reducing the penalties for a DWI conviction.
Understanding the Importance of Fighting DWI Charges
The consequences of a DWI conviction are increasingly severe, in part due to the efforts of groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in our local communities. You may be facing:
- Driver's license suspension: If you are convicted of DWI, you will likely lose your driving privileges. In addition, you will face surcharges, court expense and reinstatement fees that can easily cost you thousands of dollars.
- Loss of freedom: The minimum jail sentence for DWI is 72 hours. Certain factors can lead to much more jail time. If you get probation, you may be required to use a SCRAM device to continuously monitor and report the presence of alcohol in your system. You may also be required to pay for the installation and monitoring of an ignition interlock system. These devices force you to blow into a tube (similar to a breathalyzer) and have an alcohol reading taken before the car will start.
- Increased insurance rates: A DWI arrest and conviction will likely dramatically increase the cost of your auto insurance. You may also be forced to secure high-risk insurance. In order to remain on the road, you will have to pay the increased costs, a penalty in and of itself in a strained economy.
- Job consequences: Many professions, including truck drivers, delivery persons and sales representatives (among others) could find themselves out of a job if their license is suspended. Furthermore, some employers may not hire employees who have DWI convictions on their record.
- Loss of educational opportunities: Some student loan financing is only offered to people with no criminal record. A DWI conviction could prevent you from attending the college of your choice.
- Loss of housing opportunities: Many apartment buildings are reluctant to rent to people who have criminal records or who have been convicted of substance-related crimes like drug possession or DWI.
To have the best opportunity to avoid these serious DWI consequences, you need a lawyer who has in-depth knowledge of the criminal justice system and is prepared to aggressively fight for your rights. Contact us to discuss your options for fighting a DWI charge. From our office in El Campo, the law office, Manske & Manske represents clients throughout Wharton, Fort Bend, Lavaca, Victoria, Jackson, Harris, Matagorda, Colorado, Austin, Calhoun, Galveston, Brazoria, Brazos, DeWitt and Travis counties.
