Summary of DWI Penalties in Texas
Charged with a DWI in Bryan & College Station, TX? Call (979) 773-7028
| Charge | Offense Level | Fine | Jail Time | License Suspension | Annual Surcharge |
| 1st DWI & BWI | Class B Misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $2,000 | 72 hours to 180 days | 90 days to one year | $1,000 for three years |
| 1st DWI & BWI with BAC at or over .15 | Class A Misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $4,000 | 72 hours to one year in county jail | 90 days to one year | $2,000 for three years |
| 1st DWI with open container enhancement | Class B Misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $2,000 | Six days to 180 days in county jail | 90 days to one year | $1,000 for three years |
| 2nd DWI & BWI | Class A Misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $4,000 | 30 days to one year | 180 days to two years | $1,500 for three years |
| 3rd DWI & BWI | 3rd Degree Felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 | Two to 10 years in prison | 180 days to two years | $1,500 for three years |
| 3rd or more DWI & BWI with one prior penitentiary trip | 2nd Degree Felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 | Two to 20 years in prison | Up to two years | $1,500 for three years |
| 3rd or more DWI & BWI with two prior penitentiary trips | Enhanced Felony Punishment | Maximum fine of $10,000 | 25 years to life in prison | Up to two years | $1,500 for three years |
| DWI with child passenger (younger than 15 years of age) | State Jail Felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 | Six months to two years in state jail facility | 90 days to two years | $2,000 for three years |
| Intoxication Assault | 3rd Degree Felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 | Two to 10 years in prison | 180 days to two years | $1,000 for three years |
| Intoxication Manslaughter | 2nd Degree Felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 | Two to 20 years in prison | 180 days to two years | $1,000 for three years |
Aside from lengthy jail sentences and expensive fines, a DUI/DWI conviction can Texas can have an adverse impact on your employment and education opportunities. Whether you are applying for a new job or accredited university, a DUI/DWI on your criminal record can negatively affect your chances of accomplishing your goals.
To go into more detail, the following are common ways a DWI conviction can affect your reputation:
- DWI conviction and employment – Some employers will refuse or cannot hire individuals with a DUI conviction because employees with DUI/DWI’s on their record are considered a huge risk of hurting another person. This is especially true for industries that require a person to operate machinery or a vehicle, as well as professions that require a license.
- DWI conviction and educational opportunities – When you apply for a college, you may be required to list any criminal convictions or arrests on your application, such as DUI/DWI crimes. If you have one DUI/DWI conviction, you may be admitted to a university upon completion of a drug/alcohol program. Even after you have already been admitted, some colleges may possess a policy that requires a student to report any arrests to the administration. Failure to report a DUI/DWI arrest can lead to a suspension.
- DWI conviction and financial aid/scholarships –Requirements for private scholarships or financial aid programs vary depending on the rules established by the organization in charge. While some may only be affected by felony convictions, others may want to know if you have been arrested or convicted of any offense, including DUI/DWI’s.
Fortunately, a DWI conviction can later be remedied through an expunction or non-disclosure proceeding. At Shane Phelps Law., I am prepared to protect your future.
Contact us and request a free consultation today.
Let Our Experienced Legal Team Protect Your Rights & Future
If you were arrested for DWI, it is important to make sure that your rights are protected. At Shane Phelps Law., our College Station DWI defense attorneys have decades of experience representing a wide range of clients in criminal cases.
Although this may be an overwhelming time in your life, you do not have to work through matters on your own. We are here to ensure your voice is heard through the criminal justice system, and to provide you with the personalized attention you deserve from start to finish.
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