DWI/DUI ATTORNEY IN DALLAS, TEXAS
For many people facing charges for a DUI/DWI, it is the first time they have been in trouble with the law. Nevertheless, a conviction for any drunk driving offense can have devastating consequences, both now and in the future. The immediate criminal penalties for a conviction can include fines, jail time, and the loss of your driving privileges. The conviction can also result in a criminal record that limits your future educational and job opportunities.
If you have been arrested for any type of drunk driving offense, it is important that you seek the advice of a qualified Dallas DWI defense attorney with the ability to protect your interests. At The Linder Firm, we defend clients against all types of first-offense DWI, second-offense DWI, and felony DWI cases.
Is it a DUI or DWI?
DUI and DWI represent similar charges and the acronyms are nearly identical, so it’s common to be confused about them. The acronyms stand for:
DUI: Driving Under the Influence
DWI: Driving While Intoxicated
Neither charge is specific to a certain substance and can be applied to driving under the influence of any substance. The truth is, they both represent the same kind of charge — but a DUI is a lesser charge than a DWI.
Steps to Take After Your Charge
Time is critical when dealing with a DUI/DWI charge in Texas. You only have 15 days after your charge to schedule a hearing to appeal your driver’s license suspension. If you don’t contest your driver’s license suspension, your suspension will usually begin 40 days after the date of your arrest.
It’s important to get an experienced and diligent lawyer on your side as early as possible. Phillip Linder will look over all aspects of your case and try to find a solution to lower or eradicate your charge.
Understanding the Zero Tolerance Policy of Texas
Every state has a different policy regarding DUI charges. Texas is among the harshest, with a zero-tolerance policy. This applies especially to people under the age of 21, who are held accountable for a DWI if any trace of alcohol is detected.
This charge is known as a DUIA, or driving under the influence as a minor. The punishments for having a blood alcohol level of less than .08% are less harsh, but any trace of alcohol is still illegal.
Can a DUI Be Lowered to a Lesser Charge?
Phillip Linder may be able to lower your DUI charge to a lesser charge. The charge below a DUI is called Obstruction of a Highway. This charge carries significantly less severity. Phillip Linder can examine your case to see if he can reduce your charge.
Obstruction of a Highway is generally viewed as a traffic offense and doesn’t carry the stigma of a DUI and means fewer consequences. It’s a big improvement over a DUI/DWI charge.
Possible DUI Defenses
If you’ve been charged with a DUI, fight it! You may be surprised at the options available to you, especially if you hire an experienced drug lawyer who knows the field, like Phillip Linder. With the right defensive strategy, you stand a chance of regaining your freedom after being charged with a DUI or DWI. Here are some of the ways Phillip Linder can defend your DUI charge:
– Dispute the validity of the sobriety test– Question the accuracy of the BAC test– Challenge the reason you were stopped
These are just a few of the potential strategies that can be used to reduce or clear your charges. Phillip Linder is an experienced lawyer who may employ one or more of those strategies if it strengthens your case.
Contact The Linder Firm About Your Case
Contact one of our offices to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your DUI/DWI defense needs. We are available during regular business hours and by appointment at other times. You can reach us by phone in Dallas or in Allen. You can also reach us via email.