Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Attorneys in Temple, TX
Defending Against DWI Charges in Texas
If you have been charged with a DWI in Temple, TX, you need an experienced and knowledgeable attorney to help you navigate the legal process. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we understand that being charged with a DWI can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, and our team is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need throughout your case.
Our firm has decades of collective experience and is known for being been attentive to details and dedicated to excellence. Our attorneys are more than equipped to help those facing DWI convictions in Temple, and we are committed to providing personalized legal services tailored to your individual needs. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling all types of DWI cases, from first-time offenses to repeat offenses, and we will work hard to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
If you have been charged with a DWI in Temple, TX, contact Smith & Vinson Law Firm today. Our team is here for you every step of the way – call us today at (512) 359-3743 for a free consultation!
Why Choose Smith & Vinson Law Firm?
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we believe in taking a proactive approach when it comes to defending our clients against DWI charges. We will review all evidence related to your case and develop an effective defense strategy designed to get the best possible outcome for you. We will also work closely with prosecutors and other parties involved in order to negotiate reduced or dismissed charges whenever possible.
- Experienced Team: Our attorneys have decades of experience in criminal defense, including DWI cases.
- Former Prosecutors: Our team includes former prosecutors who understand the strategies used by the other side.
- Client-Centered Approach: We provide personalized legal services tailored to your unique needs.
- Aggressive Defense: We are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome.
Texas DWI Laws
In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense that can result in severe penalties. A DWI is a criminal offense and can be classified as either a Class B misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances.
A first-time DWI conviction is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of up to $2,000 in fines and up to 180 days in jail. Additionally, your driver's license may be suspended for up to two years.
For subsequent offenses, the penalties become more severe. A second DWI conviction can result in up to one year in jail and fines of up to $4,000. For third or subsequent offenses, you could face up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
What Is the Difference Between a DWI & DUI in Texas?
It's important to note that there are differences between DUI and DWI laws in Texas. While a DWI is charged under the Texas Penal Code, a DUI is charged under the Texas Traffic Code and is only issues to those under the legal drinking age (21). Those under age 21 can be charged with a DUI if they drive with any amount of alcohol in their system.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is classified as a Class C misdemeanor which means you cannot receive jail time or fines over $500. However, if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over 0.15%, then it will be considered an enhanced offense with increased penalties similar to those of a DWI conviction.
How to Win a Texas DWI/DUI Case
Having a tailored criminal defense strategy is essential for accused individuals to protect their rights and interests. A strong defense strategy can make the difference between a guilty or not guilty verdict, as well as the potential penalties that may be imposed. It is important to understand the various legal arguments and actions that can be taken in order to get criminal charges dismissed and secure a defendant's freedom.
In addition to retaining a reliable attorney, to strengthen your case and have someone who understands the laws in your corner, you should employ an individualized defense strategy. In some cases, your attorney can use the defense of necessity, duress, or involuntary intoxication.
Your lawyer can also challenge the accuracy of field sobriety tests or chemical tests used to measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If your rights were violated during the arrest, they can make an argument that any evidence should be inadmissible in court. Additionally, if the police officer failed to properly follow standard procedures during the investigation, it could be grounds for dismissing the case.
Other common defense strategies include:
- Inconsistency from a witness
- Unreliable witness
- False confession
- Entrapment
- Reasonable doubt
- Lack of suspicion or probable cause
- Denial of a legal representative
Every case is unique and requires an individualized approach in order to achieve the best possible outcome. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of success in court.
Retain Our Temple DWI/DUI Attorneys
If you or someone you know is facing a DWI or DUI charge, the consequences can be severe. The impact on both personal and professional life can be devastating. You want a legal professional who is well-versed in the intricacies of the law, who can navigate the process with ease, and who can provide a compelling argument to the jury.
Learn more about how our attorneys can help you by scheduling a free initial consultation online or via phone at (512) 359-3743.
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
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Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
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What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
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When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
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After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
911 caller reported a major rollover, single car accident. EMS and fire arrived on scene. They had to break the window to get our client out of the car. He said he had swerved to miss a deer and had been up close to 18 hours before the crash. Police later arrived on scene, spoke to our client and he admitted to coming from a bar and drinking 2 martinis.
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
Our client was pulled over for a traffic violation. Officer smelled alcohol, client admitted to consuming a few drinks. Officer also noted slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. Client performed the SFST’s (roadside tests). Officer said he failed all 3, eye test, walk and turn and one-leg stand. Officer placed client under arrest and asked him for a sample of breath and/or blood. Client refused. Officer did not get a blood warrant.
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Case Dismissed 2nd DWI
Our client was involved in a vehicle accident in La Grange where she was ejected from the vehicle and had to stay in the hospital. There was alcohol in the car, and she had prior DWIs. The ethanol levels in her blood came back at a .13 so she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated. This client was unaware that she was charged after she left the hospital which resulted in the charge of Bail Jumping. However she maintained that she had only an 8% functioning liver due and upon researching her medical hist
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault & Tampering with Evidence
Our client was involved in a verbal dispute that turned into an altercation where a firearm was discharged into the ground. The round ricocheted and grazed a party to the dispute. Our client was facing multiple felony convictions and a prison sentence.
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault Family Violence w/ Serious Bodily Injury
Our client was involved in a domestic altercation that resulted in one of the parties sustaining a very serious life -altering injury that required serious medical intervention. We took the case and approached our defense with heavy strong willed negotiations with the State.
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Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation