If you’re facing a DWI charge in Texas, it’s crucial to know your options for defense. By implementing key strategies and working with an experienced DWI lawyer, you may be able to fight the charges and avoid severe consequences such as jail time, fines, and license suspension. In this article, we’ll discuss the best ways to fight a DWI charge in Texas and give you some information on how to mount a strong defense.
Hire a Skilled DWI Lawyer in Texas
One of the most critical steps you can take to defend against a DWI charge is to hire a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in DWI cases in Texas. Your lawyer can analyze the evidence against you, pinpoint weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop a strong defense strategy. It’s vital to search for an attorney with significant experience in DWI cases, an outstanding reputation in the legal community, and a history of successful outcomes.
Challenge the Evidence
The prosecution in a DWI case must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving while intoxicated. This typically involves presenting evidence such as field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and witness testimony. However, these types of evidence can be challenged in court. For example, your lawyer may argue that the field sobriety tests were not administered properly or that the breathalyzer machine was not calibrated correctly.
Challenge the Traffic Stop
Another key strategy for fighting a DWI charge in Texas is to challenge the traffic stop itself. The police must have had a valid reason to pull you over, such as a traffic violation or suspicion of criminal activity. If the stop was unlawful, any evidence gathered after the stop may be suppressed in court.
Seek a Plea Bargain
In some cases, it may be beneficial to seek a plea bargain with the prosecution. This involves negotiating a lesser charge or sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. Your attorney can help you evaluate whether a plea bargain is a viable option for your case and negotiate on your behalf.
Take it to Trial
For a first offense DWI if the state’s only offer is probation sometimes you’re better taking your case to a jury. If you have no prior criminal history and lose at trial, you’ll get probation anyway. Crazy things can happen at jury and often you’ve got nothing to lose by taking it to trial. Make sure you hire an attorney who actually fights cases and is willing to go to a jury trial. Prosecutors will not respect and will not make good offers to attorneys who don’t take cases to trial.
Consider an Expunction
If you successfully fight a DWI charge in Texas, you may be eligible for an expunction of your criminal record. This means that your arrest and any charges against you will be removed from your record, allowing you to move forward without the stigma of a criminal conviction.
In conclusion, fighting a DWI charge in Texas is challenging, but by using these strategies and working with an experienced DWI lawyer, you can improve your chances of a favorable outcome. By hiring a skilled DWI lawyer in Texas, challenging the evidence and traffic stop, seeking a plea bargain, and considering an expunction, you can effectively defend against your DWI charge and protect your rights.
