Navigating the laws of DWI and the penalties of those laws can be unclear. Although cases are treated with each situation in mind, here are what the potential sentences generally look like for a first, second, and third DWI explained by SMB Criminal Defense Lawyer, Amanda Bolin.
Your first DWI is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, punishable up to six months in county jail and a $2,000 fine. The caveat to this charge would be if you have an open container or have a blood alcohol content of .15, in which you’d be bumped up to a Class A misdemeanor. That charge could land you up to a year in county jail and up to a $4,000 fine.
If you have a prior DWI conviction and have a second offense, that’s a Class A misdemeanor with the same penalties listed above. Upon your third DWI conviction, you will be slapped with a felony charge in Texas. The penalties are steep – up to ten years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
Another offense that falls within DWI penalties is DWI with a child passenger. If a person is driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle (a child is considered someone who is under 15 years of age) punishment is an automatic state jail felony even if there are no prior convictions. Jail time can range from six months to two years.
If you or someone you know is being faced with DWI, let our experienced defense team review your case. Call us at 832-900-7727.