The consequences can be significant if you face DWI charges in Longview, Texas. You may face jail time, as well as the loss of use of your driver’s license and high fines.
The consequences of a DWI Charge
Fines for a DWI in Texas range from $2,000 to $10,000, and you may also be required to pay court costs, state fines, and other fees. Jail time for a DWI in Texas ranges from 72 hours to 180 days on a first offense, and you may also be ordered to perform community service. On a third offense, jail time can be up to 10 years.
Your driver’s license will be suspended upon conviction of a DWI for up to a year. If you are convicted of a second or subsequent DWI, your driver’s license will be suspended for up to two years. You may also be required to attend DWI classes and have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. You may also be required to complete an alcohol education or treatment program.
The criminal process
You will go through a criminal process when you are arrested for a DWI in Texas. This process can differ depending on the county where the arrest occurred. Generally, you will be taken to jail and given a bond. You will then have a court date where you will appear before a judge.
The administrative process
The administrative process for a DWI in Texas can be long and complicated. You can call the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to discover the suspension status of your license. You can appeal with the DPS if it has. You may also need to get your vehicle out of impound.
Life changing consequences
A DWI charge in Texas is a serious matter with potentially life-changing consequences. In the event of conviction on a DWI charge, you could face jail time, steep fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. You will also have a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life, making it difficult to get a job or rent an apartment.
