A first DWI arrest in Longview can create immediate concerns about jail, employment, driving privileges, and the possibility of a permanent criminal record. Many people arrested for the first time have never appeared in criminal court and do not understand what happens after being released from custody. Although a first offense may carry less severe penalties than a repeat conviction, it is still a criminal charge with serious consequences. At The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C., we help people throughout Longview and East Texas understand the charges against them and evaluate their available defenses.

Understanding First-Offense DWI Charges

Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, a person commits DWI by operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. Texas Penal Code § 49.01 defines intoxication as either losing the normal use of mental or physical faculties because of alcohol or another qualifying substance, or having an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher.

An ordinary first-offense DWI is generally a Class B misdemeanor, carrying a potential sentence of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. However, a qualifying alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher increases the offense to a Class A misdemeanor, and other circumstances can result in more serious charges.

Protecting Your Driver’s License

A DWI arrest may also trigger an Administrative License Revocation proceeding. This process is separate from the criminal case and can result in a driver’s license suspension even before a criminal conviction.

Under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 524 or 724, a driver generally has 15 days after receiving the applicable suspension notice to request an administrative hearing. Missing this deadline may eliminate an important opportunity to contest the proposed suspension.

Defending Against the Criminal Charge

A DWI arrest does not automatically establish guilt. We examine whether police had reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop, whether probable cause supported the arrest, and whether the evidence actually establishes intoxication.

Breath-test results, blood-test procedures, officer observations, and body-camera recordings may all be relevant. We also examine whether medical conditions, fatigue, or other factors affected the officer’s interpretation of the driver’s behavior.

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

If you’ve been charged with a first DWI in Longview or anywhere in East Texas, do not wait to learn about your legal options. Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. at (903) 753-7499 to schedule your free consultation and discuss protecting your future, your license, and your finances.