Mark T. Lassiter is one of the most respected and widely recognized DWI defense lawyers in Dallas, Texas, and he knows what it takes to mount a solid and effective defense against the charges you are facing.
Types of DWI and Alcohol Charges We Can Handle
Texas statute § 49.04 defines “driving while intoxicated” as operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. The term “intoxicated” means:
- Having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher; or
- The presence of alcohol, a drug, a dangerous drug, a controlled substance, any other substance, or a combination of at least two substances prevents a person from having the normal use of physical or mental faculties.
Law enforcement might request a breath test or blood draw to determine if you have alcohol in your system. You have the right to refuse if you haven’t been arrested yet. However, under Texas law, it’s implied that you have given consent once you’re arrested for operating your motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated.If you refuse to submit to a chemical test after your arrest, you could lose your license for up to 180 days. The Texas Department of Transportation could suspend your license for up to two years if you have at least one alcohol-related enforcement contact within the last ten years.
Individuals can face a wide range of alcohol-related charges, which carry potentially devastating consequences upon conviction. Make sure you have the representation necessary to protect yourself and your future when facing the following alcohol offenses:
- Driving while Intoxicated (DWI) – Being intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle in a public place.
- Driving while intoxicated with a child passenger – Operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated and with a passenger under 15 years old.
- Driving under the Influence (DUI) – DUI is a term some people will use interchangeably with DWI when referring to a person driving with alcohol or drugs in their system. However, the main difference between the two is DUI refers to alcohol-related offenses committed by minors.
- Boating while Intoxicated (BWI) – A person is intoxicated while operating a watercraft. A watercraft is an aquaplane, vessel, one or more water skis, or another device to carry or transport people on the water.
- Intoxication Assault – Causing serious bodily injury to another person while intoxicated and operating a watercraft, aircraft, or amusement ride, or serious bodily injury resulting from assembling a mobile amusement ride while intoxicated.
- Intoxication Manslaughter – Operating a motor vehicle, amusement ride, or watercraft while intoxicated or assembling a mobile amusement ride while intoxicated, causing another person’s death.
It is crucial to hire experienced DWI defense attorneys in Dallas who can navigate the complexities of DWI cases and work towards dismissals or reduced charges. Whether it is for a first or repeat offense, if you have been arrested and charged with an alcohol-related crime, you need an experienced DWI defense lawyer in Dallas fighting for you.