A DWI charge in Texas can lead to substantial penalties, including fines, license suspension, jail time, and possibly installing an ignition interlock device (IID). In Collin County, with its blend of urban and suburban areas, law enforcement may heavily penalize DWI offenses.
Our clients seek thorough, professional representation to safeguard their rights and future. Our law firm offers experienced DWI attorneys who understand the Collin County legal landscape and are committed to providing you with a focused and comprehensive defense.
We approach each case with professionalism and empathy, listening closely to your concerns and guiding you every step of the way.
Arrested for DWI in Collin County? The consequences can be serious, but an experienced DWI lawyer can make a difference. Our team is here to advocate for you and safeguard your rights. Contact us today!
Don’t Delay in Consulting Our Collin DWI Lawyers to Protect Your Rights
Texas law allows only 15 days from the arrest date to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to contest your license suspension. Missing this deadline can lead to automatic suspension, seriously affecting your ability to live your life as normal, including commuting to work.
By contacting our experienced Collin DWI attorneys right away, you’ll secure the help you need to:
- Understand your rights and determine the next steps in your case
- Gather the necessary evidence to support your defense
- Receive top-tier representation at the ALR hearing to increase your chances of retaining driving privileges
Time is critical, so reach out to our team of DWI lawyers in Texas today for a free consultation to discuss your case and protect your future.
- Telephone: Call us at (972) 445-9909 or Toll-Free: (888) 978-2756
- Online: Visit Our Contact Page
- Email: Email Us at info@mcconathylaw.com
Our Collin County DWI lawyers are ready to provide you with support and defense.
What to Do After a DWI Arrest in Collin
If you’re facing a DWI arrest in Collin County, taking immediate action can greatly impact your defense. Follow these steps:
- Stay Calm: Remain composed and think clearly about your actions to avoid escalating the situation.
- Remain Silent: Do not admit fault or provide details. Wait to speak until you have a lawyer present.
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- Request Legal Representation: Ask for a lawyer immediately. You are entitled to an attorney and should not answer questions without one.
- Remember Key Details: Write down information like the time, details of police interactions, and any tests given. These notes can be important for your defense.
- Limit Discussion: Avoid discussing your case with anyone, as comments can be used against you.
- Gather Witness Contacts: Collect the contact information of any witnesses that were present.
- Request an ALR Hearing Quickly: You have 15 days from arrest to request a hearing to contest your license suspension.
- Avoid Social Media Posts: Do not post about your arrest online, as it can be used against you as evidence.
- Arrange Transportation: Plan for alternative transportation if your license is suspended.
- Attend All Court Dates: Missing court can lead to additional penalties. Attend all scheduled hearings with your attorney.
How Our Collin DWI Attorneys Can Help
Our Collin County DWI attorneys provide focused support at each stage of your case to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
- Developing a Defense Strategy: Our firm customizes defense strategies based on the details of each case, including any procedural errors by law enforcement, with a focus on reducing or dismissing charges.
- Representation in Court and Negotiations: Our attorneys advocate on your behalf in court to reduce charges or penalties. While less experienced lawyers may default to a plea deal, we explore all options, including taking your case to trial if needed.
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- Immediate Legal Guidance: Our attorneys offer prompt advice to help clients take immediate proactive steps and avoid self-incrimination. Texas DWI laws can be tough, and our team understands how these nuances apply to your situation.
- Protecting Your Rights: The lawyer assigned to your case will work diligently to ensure your rights are upheld and that law enforcement follows all required legal procedures.
- Thorough Case Assessment: We review all case elements in detail, including evidence, police actions, and test results, to determine the best course of action.
If you’ve been charged with DWI in Collin County, it’s essential to have a strong defense on your side. Our experienced DWI lawyers are here to guide you through each step. Contact us and start protecting your rights!
Why Choose Our Collin DWI Lawyer?
Our Collin DWI attorneys are familiar with the local courts, judges, and law enforcement practices, which gives us a distinct advantage in handling your case. We know how DWI cases are typically approached in Collin County and leverage that insight to strengthen your defense.
In addition to Collin County, our Texas DWI lawyers serve clients across several other Texas counties, including:
From the initial consultation to the conclusion of your case, we focus on protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of the charges. Whether we’re negotiating with prosecutors or representing you in court, our priority is achieving a favorable outcome.
With our knowledgeable and committed team, you’ll have strong local representation ready to advocate for you at every step.
About Our DWI Lawyers in Collin
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we focus solely on criminal defense, backed by over 35 years of experience helping clients with DWI and other charges. Our attorneys in Collin County bring their knowledge and skill to each case, working hard to get the best results for our clients.
We’ve successfully handled over 1,000 criminal cases, achieving more than 300 “Not Guilty” or “Dismissed” outcomes. We’re thorough, from reviewing every case detail to gathering all necessary evidence and negotiating directly with prosecutors to defend our clients’ rights from start to finish.
We know the Collin County court system inside and out and are committed to using our experience to guide our clients through their cases with confidence.
Charged with a DWI or drunk driving? Call us today at (972) 445-9909 to set up your first consultation with our team.
DWI Defense Strategies Used by Our Firm
Our firm uses a range of strategic defenses to give you the best chance at a positive outcome, including:
- Challenging BAC Results: We examine BAC test results for accuracy, checking for any potential equipment malfunctions, calibration issues, or improper handling of the testing process.
- Investigating Procedural Errors: Our attorneys review whether all legal procedures were followed during your arrest, including the administration of field sobriety and chemical tests. Procedural errors can weaken the prosecution’s case.
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- Questioning Probable Cause: We ensure the officer had valid probable cause for the traffic stop. If they lacked sufficient reason, we may seek to suppress the evidence collected from the stop.
- Analyzing Field Sobriety Tests: We scrutinize the administration of field sobriety tests, which can often be unreliable due to factors like road conditions, health issues, or even the weather.
- Customized Defense for Each Client: Our attorneys develop a personalized defense strategy, considering the specifics of your case, any procedural missteps, and your individual circumstances to work toward reducing or dismissing charges.
With these focused defense strategies, our team provides dedicated and strategic support to help you achieve the best possible results in your case.
If you’re facing a DWI charge, you don’t have to go through it alone. From blood test results to the possibility that your license may be suspended, our lawyers will help you build a strong defense. Reach out today!
Types of DWI Offenses Our Collin DWI Attorneys Handle
Our Collin County DWI attorneys are experienced in handling various types of DWI offenses. Here’s an overview of the charges and consequences for each.
A first-time DWI offense is a Class B misdemeanor. Penalties include fines of up to $2,000, jail time from 3 days to 180 days, and a driver’s license suspension of up to one year.
First offenses may allow for probation, alcohol education, or community service. Successful completion of such programs may prevent harsher penalties or reduce the length of suspension.
A second DWI offense in Texas is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries more severe penalties. Fines can reach up to $4,000, with jail time ranging from 30 days to one year. Additionally, a driver’s license suspension of up to two years is common.
Courts often require mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs, especially for repeat offenders, and may impose ignition interlock devices for added monitoring. A second DWI charge can impact your record and future opportunities, so it’s essential to contact one of our experienced Collin County DWI attorneys for a strong defense.
A third or subsequent DWI offense is a third-degree felony, carrying significant consequences. Penalties include fines of up to $10,000, prison sentences ranging from 2 to 10 years, and possible permanent license revocation. There may also be additional state fines of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 upon sentencing.
Felony DWI convictions come with a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and other opportunities due to the stigma associated with felony charges. Our experienced DWI defense lawyers can provide essential guidance in Collin County for those facing these severe repercussions.
Certain factors can elevate a DWI to aggravated or felony status, leading to much harsher penalties. Common aggravating factors include a BAC of 0.15% or higher, which can result in increased fines and extended jail time.
Additional factors that can elevate the charge include: causing injury, property damage, or driving recklessly (such as excessive speeding) during the incident. Aggravated and felony DWIs often carry lengthier prison sentences, substantial fines, and, in many cases, the permanent loss of driving privileges.
If you’re facing these enhanced charges in Collin County, our skilled DWI defense attorneys can help build a strong case to protect your rights and future.
Driving under the influence with children under 15 years old in the vehicle is classified as a state jail felony, even for first-time offenders. Penalties include fines up to $10,000, 6 months to 2 years in state jail, and potentially lifelong consequences to family and custody matters.
This charge may impact child custody cases due to the risk posed to a minor during the offense.
A BWI charge occurs when someone operates a boat with a BAC over the legal limit. This is treated as a Class B misdemeanor, with fines up to $2,000, jail time for up to 180 days, and possible suspension of boating privileges.
BWI cases may also involve additional safety violations and specific boating regulations.
Flying under the influence is a state jail felony with penalties similar to other felony charges, including possible fines and jail time, plus the loss of one’s pilot’s license. Conviction of flying while intoxicated can seriously impact or even end a pilot’s career due to restrictions on aviation licensing and employment eligibility in the industry.
Commercial drivers, held to a stricter BAC limit of 0.04%, face serious consequences, including immediate disqualification from operating commercial vehicles, jail time, and commercial license suspension. A DWI conviction can impact a driver’s livelihood due to industry regulations on criminal records and DUI/DWI offenses.
This third-degree felony carries a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and fines of up to $10,000. Convictions often require restitution to victims for medical expenses and may incur substantial financial penalties in civil court in addition to criminal punishment.
When intoxicated driving results in another person’s death, it is charged as a second-degree felony with penalties of 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. This charge carries lifelong consequences, including a permanent criminal record, and courts often impose the maximum penalties to deter future offenses.
Operating a vehicle with any degree of alcohol or drug impairment, even below the standard BAC limit, can lead to charges with penalties similar to DWI, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. Impaired driving cases often rely on field sobriety or chemical tests.
These offenses, though comparatively minor, may still affect driving privileges, especially for repeat offenders.
Driving under the influence of drugs, including prescription medications, is penalized similarly to alcohol-based DWI. Consequences may include fines, jail time, and license suspension.
Defenses often involve challenging the legitimacy of drug tests or disputing the legal basis for the traffic stop. Cases involving controlled substances are particularly complex, due to additional legal requirements.
Property damage caused by intoxicated driving may result in enhanced penalties. Additional consequences include fines, potential restitution payments for repairs, and possible jail time.
The severity of the penalties depends on the extent of damage and whether it involves public or private property. Convictions may also lead to increased insurance rates and other financial burdens.
Texas enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21, meaning any alcohol level can result in a DWI charge. Penalties include fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and license suspension.
Long-term consequences may include impacts on educational and job opportunities, with courts often taking these factors into account in sentencing.
Our defense attorneys in Texas handle a wide range of alcohol-related offenses beyond DWI and DUI, including:
- Public Intoxication
- Minor in Possession of Alcohol
- Open Container in Vehicle
- Possession of Alcoholic Beverage in Motor Vehicle
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Possession of Marijuana
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Resisting Arrest
- Common Moving Violations
Each of these offenses has unique penalties, and our attorneys are ready to defend each to protect clients’ rights and minimize legal consequences.
What is DWI? Understanding DWI Charges in Collin
In Texas, a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge applies when someone operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Texas law defines intoxication through Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limits, setting clear thresholds for legal intoxication levels.
Legal BAC Limits include:
- Adult drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher are legally considered intoxicated.
- Underage drivers face a zero-tolerance policy, in which any detectable BAC level can lead to a DWI charge.
- Commercial drivers have a stricter BAC limit of 0.04%, due to the responsibilities associated with operating larger vehicles.
Potential penalties in Collin County for a DWI conviction can be severe and increase with repeat offenses:
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- Fines for a first offense can reach up to $2,000, while second offenses can bring fines up to $4,000 or more.
- Jail time ranges from 3 to 180 days for a first offense, while repeat offenses carry longer sentences of up to one year, and third offenses can lead to prison sentences of 2 to 10 years.
- License suspension for a first offense may last 90 days to one year. Second offenses can lead to a suspension of up to 2 years, with possible ignition interlock requirements for repeat offenders.
Escalated penalties and felony charges apply for multiple convictions:
- Third-time DWI offenses are often charged as third-degree felonies, involving fines up to $10,000 and prison time of 2 to 10 years.
- Serious or repeated offenses can also result in extended or permanent license revocation, especially when aggravating factors are involved, such as injuries or property damage.
Long-term impacts of a DWI conviction include:
- Employment consequences: Many employers conduct background checks, and a DWI can limit job opportunities, particularly in roles requiring a clean driving record.
- Insurance implications: Increased premiums and a possible requirement for SR-22 insurance can remain on your record for years and carry higher costs.
A DWI conviction can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. Our lawyers are here to defend your rights, so contact us today to discuss your options!
Contact a DWI Attorney in Collin Today!
If you are facing DWI charges in Collin County, no matter the reason, you must build a strong defense. Our firm is here for you.
Texas law allows only a short window to take legal action, including contesting license suspension and building a defense. Our experienced DWI attorneys in Collin County are here to guide you through every step, starting with a free initial case evaluation.
Don’t wait—secure your defense today.
- Telephone: Call us at (972) 528-0481 or Toll-Free: (888) 978-2756
- Online: Visit Our Contact Page for experienced DWI assistance.
- Email: For more information on a DWI criminal charge, email us at info@mcconathylaw.com
FAQs
How do I beat a DWI charge in Texas?
Beating a DWI charge in Texas often involves challenging the evidence against you. Our experienced Collin County DWI attorneys can examine the legality of the traffic stop, question breath or blood test accuracy, and identify any procedural errors.
Each case is unique, and strong defense strategies are critical.
Can you avoid jail time for the first DWI in Texas?
Yes, avoiding jail time for a first DWI in Texas is possible. Many first-time offenders may qualify for alternative sentencing, like probation, community service, or alcohol education programs.
Consulting with a skilled DWI defense attorney can help increase the chances of a reduced alternative sentence.
Can you get out of a DWI in Texas?
Getting out of a DWI charge in Texas is challenging but possible with strong legal representation. A DWI defense lawyer can work to dismiss or reduce charges by examining issues such as probable cause, the accuracy of the field sobriety test, and the correct administration of any tests.
How many DWI cases get dismissed in Texas?
Approximately 30-40% of first-time DWI cases in Texas may be dismissed, though outcomes vary based on case specifics and defense strategies. Our experienced attorneys are familiar with Collin County DWI cases and can identify weak points in the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and seek favorable results to potentially achieve dismissal.
What to expect for the first DWI in Texas?
A first DWI in Texas is typically a misdemeanor and can result in fines up to $2,000, possible jail time from 3 to 180 days, and license suspension. Courts may offer alternatives like probation or alcohol education for first offenders.
Consulting with one of our DWI attorneys can help understand your options.