News - Alex Tyra Law Office

What Is an ALR Hearing After a DWI Arrest in Texas?

February 12, 2026/0 Comments/in Texas DWI Defense/by LS_admin

Many people arrested for DWI in Longview focus only on the criminal case and do not realize that a separate process can affect their driver’s license almost immediately. In Texas, the Administrative License Revocation process, commonly known as an ALR hearing, can determine whether your license will be suspended after a DWI arrest. This hearing is completely separate from the criminal court proceedings.

The ALR process begins after a driver either fails a breath or blood test or refuses testing altogether. If police believe you were intoxicated and you either tested over the legal limit or refused chemical testing, the Texas Department of Public Safety may attempt to suspend your license.

One of the most important things to understand is that you only have a limited amount of time to request an ALR hearing. If you fail to act quickly, your license suspension may automatically take effect. Many drivers lose important rights simply because they wait too long to speak with an attorney.

An ALR hearing can provide several important advantages. First, it creates an opportunity to challenge the proposed suspension of your driving privileges. Second, it allows your attorney to question the arresting officer under oath before the criminal case proceeds further. This testimony can sometimes uncover inconsistencies or weaknesses in the state’s evidence.

At an ALR hearing, several issues may be examined, including:
• Whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop the vehicle
• Whether probable cause existed for the arrest
• Whether the driver refused testing
• Whether the chemical test results were properly obtained
• Whether officers followed legal procedures

The outcome of the ALR hearing can significantly affect your ability to work and manage daily responsibilities. Many people in East Texas depend heavily on driving to commute long distances for employment, school, and family obligations.

If your license becomes suspended, you may still qualify for an occupational driver’s license in certain situations. This restricted license may allow limited driving privileges for work, school, or essential household duties. However, obtaining an occupational license often requires court approval and compliance with strict conditions.

The ALR hearing may also provide insight into the prosecution’s evidence in the criminal case. Police reports, video footage, and officer testimony often become critical pieces of evidence later in court. An experienced DWI defense attorney may use information gathered during the hearing to prepare a stronger defense strategy.

Many people assume license suspension automatically means they were convicted of DWI. That is not true. The ALR process is administrative, while the criminal case involves separate legal standards and proceedings. A person could potentially win one proceeding and lose the other.

Texas DWI cases often involve complex scientific and procedural issues. Breath testing machines require proper maintenance and calibration. Blood testing procedures must follow legal and scientific standards. Officers must also comply with constitutional protections during traffic stops and arrests.

Mistakes made during any part of the investigation may affect the admissibility of evidence. Video recordings from dashboard cameras and body cameras frequently play a major role in challenging the prosecution’s version of events.

Protecting your license can be critical to protecting your livelihood. Taking immediate action after a DWI arrest may improve your chances of preserving your driving privileges and building a strong defense.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with DWI in Longview or anywhere in East Texas, don’t wait. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested, and every decision you make from here on out matters. The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. is ready to help you protect your future, your license, and your wallet.

Call us today at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward fighting your DWI charges.

How a DWI Conviction Can Affect Your Career in Texas

February 8, 2026/0 Comments/in Texas DWI Defense/by LS_admin

A DWI conviction can create problems far beyond the courtroom. Many people in Longview do not realize how much a criminal conviction can affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, and future income. Even individuals with strong careers and clean records may face serious consequences after a DWI arrest.

Employers frequently conduct background checks during hiring and promotion decisions. A DWI conviction appearing on a criminal history report can raise concerns about judgment, reliability, and safety. Some employers may refuse to hire applicants with alcohol-related driving convictions altogether.

Workers who drive for a living often face the greatest risks. Commercial drivers can lose their commercial driver’s license after certain DWI offenses. Sales professionals, delivery drivers, contractors, and others who depend on driving may also face job-related consequences if their licenses become suspended.

Professional licensing boards may also investigate DWI arrests or convictions. Nurses, teachers, doctors, pilots, real estate professionals, and other licensed individuals could face disciplinary proceedings depending on the circumstances of the case.

A DWI conviction may impact:
• Employment applications
• Professional licensing renewals
• Security clearances
• College admissions
• Insurance rates
• Housing opportunities

Young professionals and college students may face long-term setbacks at the beginning of their careers. Employers sometimes view alcohol-related offenses as indicators of poor decision-making even when the incident involved no accident or injuries.

Insurance costs often increase dramatically following a DWI conviction. Some drivers may even struggle to obtain coverage at all. High-risk insurance requirements can create financial burdens for years after the criminal case ends.

Texas prosecutors aggressively pursue DWI convictions because impaired driving cases are treated seriously throughout the state. However, every arrest does not automatically lead to a conviction. Police officers can make mistakes during investigations, testing procedures, and arrests.

A skilled DWI attorney may examine whether:
• The traffic stop was lawful
• The officer had probable cause
• Testing procedures were valid
• Chemical testing equipment was reliable
• Constitutional rights were violated
• Evidence should be excluded

Many cases involve weaknesses that are not obvious at first glance. Surveillance footage, body camera recordings, witness statements, and police reports may reveal inconsistencies or procedural problems.

Some drivers assume they should immediately accept a plea agreement to move on quickly. However, a conviction can follow a person for years. Exploring available defenses and legal strategies before making decisions may help protect your future.

DWI charges involving accidents, high blood alcohol concentrations, or repeat offenses can carry even more severe penalties. Jail exposure, lengthy license suspensions, ignition interlock requirements, and probation conditions may become part of the sentence.

The earlier a defense attorney becomes involved, the better the opportunity to review evidence and prepare a defense strategy. In some situations, attorneys may negotiate for reduced charges or alternative outcomes depending on the facts and the person’s history.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with DWI in Longview or anywhere in East Texas, don’t wait. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested, and every decision you make from here on out matters. The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. is ready to help you protect your future, your license, and your wallet.

Call us today at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward fighting your DWI charges.

Can You Refuse a Breath Test During a Texas DWI Stop?

February 4, 2026/0 Comments/in Texas DWI Defense/by LS_admin

Many drivers in Longview believe refusing a breath test automatically prevents the police from gathering evidence in a DWI case. While Texas law allows drivers to refuse certain tests, that decision can create additional legal consequences. Understanding implied consent laws in Texas is important if you are facing DWI allegations.

Texas operates under an implied consent law. By driving on Texas roads, drivers are considered to have agreed to provide a breath or blood sample if lawfully arrested for DWI. However, drivers can still refuse testing in many situations. The problem is that a refusal can trigger separate penalties through the Administrative License Revocation system.

If you refuse a breath or blood test after a DWI arrest, the Texas Department of Public Safety may seek to suspend your driver’s license. For a first refusal, the suspension can last up to 180 days. Prior alcohol-related enforcement contacts can lead to even longer suspensions.

Police officers often use refusal evidence against drivers in court. Prosecutors may argue that the refusal suggests the driver knew they were intoxicated. Jurors sometimes view refusals negatively even though drivers have legal rights regarding testing decisions.

Refusing a breath test does not necessarily stop police from obtaining evidence. In some cases, officers may seek a warrant for a blood sample. Texas courts frequently approve blood warrants in DWI investigations, especially when aggravating circumstances exist. If officers obtain a warrant, medical personnel may draw blood despite the driver’s refusal.

Breath tests themselves are not always accurate. Many factors can affect the results, including:
• Improper calibration of testing equipment
• Operator mistakes
• Medical conditions such as acid reflux
• Certain diets or medications
• Residual mouth alcohol
• Timing issues during testing

An experienced DWI defense attorney may challenge the reliability of breath testing procedures or question whether officers followed proper protocols.

Drivers should also understand that field sobriety tests are different from chemical tests. Standardized field sobriety exercises are voluntary in Texas. Officers often ask drivers to perform balancing and coordination exercises on the side of the road, but these tests can be unreliable. Poor lighting, nervousness, medical issues, age, and road conditions may affect performance.

Many Longview DWI arrests involve more than alcohol alone. Prescription medications and other substances may also lead to impairment allegations. Drug-related DWI investigations often involve subjective observations by officers rather than straightforward chemical results.

Every DWI stop presents unique legal issues. Officers must follow constitutional requirements during traffic stops and arrests. If they fail to do so, evidence may become subject to suppression. Dash camera footage, body camera recordings, and dispatch records often become important pieces of evidence in these cases.

The decisions made during a DWI stop can significantly affect the outcome of a criminal case. Speaking with an experienced attorney as soon as possible may help you understand your options and protect your rights moving forward.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with DWI in Longview or anywhere in East Texas, don’t wait. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested, and every decision you make from here on out matters. The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. is ready to help you protect your future, your license, and your wallet.

Call us today at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward fighting your DWI charges.

What Happens After a First-Time DWI Arrest in Longview, Texas?

February 1, 2026/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by LS_admin

A first-time DWI arrest in Longview can feel overwhelming from the moment the police lights appear in your rearview mirror. Many people have never dealt with the criminal justice system before and do not know what to expect after being charged. In Texas, even a first-offense DWI can carry serious penalties that affect your driver’s license, employment, finances, and reputation. Understanding the process can help you avoid mistakes that may hurt your case later.

In Texas, a person can be charged with Driving While Intoxicated if they operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. Under Texas law, intoxication may mean having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher or not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties because of alcohol or drugs. Police officers often rely on field sobriety tests, breath tests, blood tests, and officer observations when making an arrest.

After a DWI arrest in Longview, you may be taken to jail for booking and processing. Depending on the circumstances, you could be released on bond within hours or held longer. Many people are surprised to learn that their driver’s license issues begin almost immediately. Texas has an Administrative License Revocation process, often called ALR, that can suspend your license if you fail or refuse a breath or blood test. You only have a limited amount of time to request a hearing to challenge the suspension.

A first-time DWI conviction in Texas can result in:
• Jail time
• Significant fines
• Annual surcharges and court costs
• Driver’s license suspension
• DWI education programs
• Probation conditions
• Increased insurance costs

The consequences can become even more severe if there was a child passenger in the vehicle, a high blood alcohol concentration, or an accident involving injuries.

One of the biggest mistakes people make after a DWI arrest is assuming they should simply plead guilty because it is their first offense. Police officers can make mistakes during traffic stops, field sobriety testing, and chemical testing procedures. Breath testing equipment must be properly maintained and administered correctly. In some cases, the traffic stop itself may have violated constitutional protections.

An experienced Longview DWI defense lawyer can examine every aspect of the case to determine whether defenses exist. Evidence may be challenged if officers lacked reasonable suspicion to stop the vehicle or probable cause to make an arrest. Medical conditions, fatigue, nervousness, and uneven road conditions can also affect field sobriety tests.

Your criminal case is not the only issue you may face. Employers, professional licensing boards, and insurance companies may also react negatively to a DWI charge. Commercial drivers and individuals who drive for work can face especially serious risks.

Many people also underestimate how quickly prosecutors begin building their case. Video footage, witness statements, dispatch recordings, and chemical testing evidence can all play a role. Early legal representation may help preserve important evidence and protect your rights throughout the process.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with DWI in Longview or anywhere in East Texas, don’t wait. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested, and every decision you make from here on out matters. The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. is ready to help you protect your future, your license, and your wallet.

Call us today at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward fighting your DWI charges.

The Cost of a DWI in Longview: Fines, Fees, and Insurance Rates

January 18, 2026/0 Comments/in Texas DWI Defense/by LS_admin

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Longview, Texas, is more than just a traffic stop—it’s a financial and legal crisis that can impact nearly every part of your life. Most people don’t realize just how expensive a DWI can be until they’re facing charges. From court-imposed fines to long-term insurance rate increases, the true cost of a DWI in Texas adds up fast.

As a DWI defense lawyer serving Longview and surrounding areas, I want to make sure you understand the financial impact of a DWI conviction—and how hiring the right attorney early can help reduce or even avoid some of these penalties.

Court Fines and Criminal Penalties for a DWI in Texas

The most immediate financial burden in a Texas DWI case comes in the form of criminal fines. These fines depend on whether it’s your first, second, or third offense:

First DWI Offense (Class B Misdemeanor):
- Fines up to $2,000
- Possible 72 hours to 180 days in jail
- License suspension up to one year
Second DWI Offense (Class A Misdemeanor):
- Fines up to $4,000
- Jail time from 30 days to one year
- License suspension for up to two years
Third or Subsequent DWI (Felony):
- Fines up to $10,000
- Prison time of 2–10 years
- Loss of license up to two years

Additional fines may apply in cases with:

BAC over 0.15
Minor in the vehicle
DWI-related accident or injury

Mandatory Surcharges and Administrative Fees

Texas has eliminated its old “Driver Responsibility Program,” but DWI convictions still trigger administrative penalties, including:

License Reinstatement Fees: After a suspension, expect to pay $125 or more to reinstate your driver’s license.
Ignition Interlock Device: Required in many cases (especially second or subsequent offenses), this device costs $75–$150 to install, plus $60–$80/month for monitoring.
Alcohol Education Programs: These court-mandated classes can cost $70–$185, depending on the program length.

If your case involves an accident or personal injury, restitution may also be ordered by the court.

DWI and Car Insurance Rates in Texas

Even after you’ve served your sentence and paid your fines, the financial consequences of a DWI follow you.

After a DWI, your auto insurance provider may:

Cancel your policy
Refuse to renew your coverage
Raise your premiums significantly

Most drivers see a 40%–100% increase in premiums for at least 3 to 5 years. You may also be required to file an SR-22 form, which is essentially a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry the minimum required liability coverage. This alone can cost $25–$50 per year, on top of higher insurance costs.

Over time, you could pay $4,500–$10,000 or more in increased insurance premiums because of a single DWI conviction.

Other Hidden Costs of a DWI in Texas

Beyond the obvious fines and fees, there are many other indirect financial impacts:

Lost wages due to court appearances, jail time, or license suspension
Transportation costs if your license is suspended and you have to rely on taxis, ride-shares, or public transit
Bail and bond fees, often starting at $500–$1,500
Court costs, probation fees, and legal filing fees
Job consequences, especially for professionals, CDL drivers, and military personnel

How a Longview DWI Attorney Can Help You Minimize the Financial Damage

An experienced DWI defense lawyer can often reduce your charges or penalties. Depending on the facts of your case, I may be able to:

Challenge the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
Suppress unreliable breathalyzer or blood test results
Negotiate for a reduction in charges (e.g., reckless driving instead of DWI)
Argue for deferred adjudication or pre-trial diversion, which can help you avoid a conviction altogether

Investing in the right defense now may save you thousands of dollars in fines, fees, and insurance hikes over the next decade.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with DWI in Longview or anywhere in East Texas, don’t wait. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested, and every decision you make from here on out matters. The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. is ready to help you protect your future, your license, and your wallet.

Call us today at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward fighting your DWI charges.

Will a DWI Show Up on a Background Check in Texas?

January 17, 2026/0 Comments/in Texas DWI Defense/by LS_admin

If you were arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, you may be wondering how it might affect your future—especially your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, or apply for a professional license. One of the most common questions we get is whether a DWI will appear on a background check.

The short answer is: yes, in most cases, a DWI will show up on a background check in Texas—even if it was your first offense. But there are important details you need to understand, especially if you haven’t been convicted yet.

Arrests, Charges, and Convictions Are All Public Record

When a background check is run—whether by a private employer, landlord, or government agency—it can pull data from multiple public sources, including:

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) criminal history database
County court records
Law enforcement arrest logs
Federal and state databases

If you were arrested for DWI, even if the charge was later dismissed, it may still show up unless it was expunged or sealed. Likewise, a conviction will be visible to nearly anyone running a background check unless specific legal steps are taken to remove it.

Types of Background Checks and Who Can See What

Not all background checks are the same. What appears and who can access it depends on the type of check:

Basic Employment Checks: Most employers see criminal convictions, including DWI. Some also see pending charges or arrests.
Professional Licensure or Government Checks: These often involve more comprehensive scrutiny, including dismissed charges or old arrests.
Landlord Checks: Some landlords use third-party companies that review criminal records—DWIs may impact housing decisions.

Even rideshare apps, daycare centers, or hospitals will likely see your DWI arrest or conviction—possibly years after the fact.

What If the DWI Was Dismissed?

If your DWI case was dismissed, you may think it’s no longer a problem. Unfortunately, that’s not always true. Unless you go through the process of expunction, the record of your arrest can still appear on a background check.

Many people are surprised to learn that dismissed charges, not guilty verdicts, and even dropped investigations still leave a public trace. Employers may not differentiate between dismissal and conviction unless you explain or expunge it.

Can a DWI Be Expunged or Sealed in Texas?

Some DWI arrests may qualify for expunction, meaning the record is erased entirely. Others may qualify for non-disclosure, which seals the record from public view (but not law enforcement or licensing boards).

However, a conviction for DWI usually cannot be expunged or sealed. This makes it even more critical to fight the charge before pleading guilty.

At The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C., we help clients explore every possible avenue to protect their record—including challenging the charge itself or pursuing legal remedies post-dismissal.

Employers May Not Hire You Even for a First-Time DWI

A DWI conviction—even for a first offense—can hurt your chances of getting:

Teaching jobs
Government positions
CDL or delivery jobs
Medical or nursing licenses
Law enforcement positions
Jobs that involve company vehicles

Even if you’re qualified, your application may be rejected because of the criminal record alone. That’s why preventing a conviction in the first place is so important.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

A DWI is not just a traffic offense—it’s a permanent mark on your record that can follow you for years. Don’t make the mistake of assuming it’s a minor issue. If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Texas, call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C.right away.

We will review your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your future and your reputation.

📞 Call now for a free consultation at (903) 753-7499. We serve clients across East Texas—including Longview, Tyler, Marshall, and surrounding areas.

Are You Legally Required to Take Field Sobriety Tests in Longview, Texas?

January 16, 2026/0 Comments/in Texas DWI Defense/by LS_admin

A DWI arrest is intimidating. The officer may have told you they have everything they need. You may have failed a breath test or performed poorly on field sobriety tests. Maybe you’re thinking it’s easier to “just get it over with” and plead guilty.

Don’t.

Pleading guilty to a DWI in Texas without speaking to a lawyer could be one of the most damaging decisions you ever make—even for a first offense. You may not realize what you’re giving up until it’s too late.

At The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C., we’ve helped many people who were ready to plead guilty avoid lifelong consequences by aggressively defending their case.

A Guilty Plea Is a Conviction—With Lasting Consequences

Pleading guilty is not a “shortcut” or a way to move on quickly. In Texas, a DWI conviction—no matter how minor—results in:

A permanent criminal record
Possible jail time, even for first-time offenders
Thousands in fines, court costs, and probation fees
Driver’s license suspension
A requirement to carry expensive SR-22 insurance
Possible ignition interlock installation
Damaged employment prospects
Immigration or professional license consequences

A guilty plea means you waive your right to fight the case, examine the evidence, or negotiate a better outcome. And once entered, it’s extremely difficult to undo.

Prosecutors Are Not on Your Side

It’s not uncommon for prosecutors to offer a quick plea deal. They may make it sound like they’re doing you a favor—but their job is to secure convictions, not protect your interests. The first offer is rarely the best you can get.

You need someone in your corner who understands DWI law, evidentiary rules, and how to expose weaknesses in the state’s case.

You May Have Strong Defenses Without Knowing It

Even if you failed a breath or blood test, you might still have a strong legal defense. We routinely challenge DWI charges based on:

Illegal traffic stops
Unreliable field sobriety tests
Improperly administered breath tests
Contaminated or delayed blood samples
Lack of probable cause for arrest
Mishandling of bodycam or dashcam evidence

Unless a trained attorney evaluates your case, you’ll never know what defenses you gave up by pleading guilty.

You May Qualify for Alternatives to Conviction

Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for:

Dismissal of the charges
Reduction to a lesser offense (e.g., obstruction of a highway)
Deferred adjudication (in limited situations)
Pretrial diversion programs

These options are often off the table once you plead guilty. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf and fight for outcomes that don’t permanently stain your record.

Timing Matters—The Sooner You Call, the Better

Every DWI case moves on a schedule. You have only 15 days to request a hearing to save your driver’s license from suspension. Evidence like surveillance video, witness testimony, and police bodycam footage can disappear if not preserved quickly.

The earlier we get involved, the more leverage we have to negotiate and protect your rights.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

A DWI conviction isn’t just a fine—it’s a permanent mark on your record. Don’t plead guilty until you’ve spoken to a qualified defense attorney. Let us evaluate your case, review the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.

At The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C., we defend people across East Texas charged with DWI, including in Longview, Tyler, Marshall, and beyond.

Call us now at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and protect your future before it’s too late.

Latest News

What Is an ALR Hearing After a DWI Arrest in Texas?

How a DWI Conviction Can Affect Your Career in Texas

Can You Refuse a Breath Test During a Texas DWI Stop?

What Happens After a First-Time DWI Arrest in Longview, Texas?

The Cost of a DWI in Longview: Fines, Fees, and Insurance Rates

Court Fines and Criminal Penalties for a DWI in Texas

Mandatory Surcharges and Administrative Fees

DWI and Car Insurance Rates in Texas

Other Hidden Costs of a DWI in Texas

How a Longview DWI Attorney Can Help You Minimize the Financial Damage

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

Will a DWI Show Up on a Background Check in Texas?

Arrests, Charges, and Convictions Are All Public Record

Types of Background Checks and Who Can See What

What If the DWI Was Dismissed?

Can a DWI Be Expunged or Sealed in Texas?

Employers May Not Hire You Even for a First-Time DWI

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

Are You Legally Required to Take Field Sobriety Tests in Longview, Texas?

A Guilty Plea Is a Conviction—With Lasting Consequences

Prosecutors Are Not on Your Side

You May Have Strong Defenses Without Knowing It

You May Qualify for Alternatives to Conviction

Timing Matters—The Sooner You Call, the Better

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

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