Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in the state of Texas. If you have been charged with a DWI, it is important to take the matter seriously and seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. With the right defense strategy, it is possible to successfully defend against DWI charges in Texas.
Here are some tips for defending against DWI charges in Texas:
Understand the Charges Against You
The first step in defending against DWI charges in Texas is to understand the charges against you. In Texas, a person can be charged with a DWI if they are operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. A person can also be charged with a DWI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 or higher.
Hire an Experienced DWI Defense Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take to defend against DWI charges in Texas is to hire an experienced DWI defense attorney. A skilled attorney can examine the evidence against you, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your specific situation.
Challenge the Traffic Stop
In many DWI cases, the initial traffic stop is the key issue. If the police officer did not have a valid reason to stop you, any evidence obtained as a result of the stop may be suppressed. Your attorney can review the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop and determine if there were any violations of your constitutional rights.
Challenge the Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are often used to determine if a person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, these tests are not always accurate and can be affected by various factors, such as the person’s physical condition or the environment in which the tests were administered. Your attorney can challenge the results of the field sobriety tests and argue that they are not reliable indicators of intoxication.
Challenge the BAC Results
If you took a breathalyzer or blood test and the results showed that your BAC was over the legal limit, your attorney can challenge the accuracy of the test. Breathalyzers and blood tests can be affected by a number of factors, such as improper calibration or contamination of the sample.
Negotiate a Plea Bargain
In some cases, it may be in your best interest to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution. This could involve pleading guilty to a lesser offense, such as reckless driving, in exchange for a reduced sentence. Your attorney can help you determine if this is a viable option in your case.
Prepare for Trial
If your case goes to trial, it is important to be prepared. Your attorney can help you understand the trial process, prepare you for testimony, and develop a strong defense strategy.
Defending against DWI charges in Texas requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account all of the relevant facts and circumstances of your case. With the help of an experienced DWI defense attorney, it is possible to challenge the evidence against you and achieve a favorable outcome. If you have been charged with a DWI in Texas, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options for defending against the charges.