Georgetown Aggravated DWI Defense Attorneys

Understanding Aggravated DWI Charges in Texas

In Texas, an aggravated DWI means that certain factors have made the drunk driving offense more severe than usual. These factors significantly impact conviction penalties and sentencing, making the need for an aggressive defense more critical than ever.

DWI aggravating factors may include: 

• Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15% or higher 
• The presence of a minor in the vehicle 
• Incidents resulting in bodily injury or fatalities. 

What To Do If You Are Arrested for an Aggravated DWI 

If arrested for an aggravated DWI, knowing the proper steps can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case. You are strongly encouraged to contact an attorney who is experienced in defending aggravated DWI cases in Texas immediately.

Essential Steps to Take Following an Aggravated DWI Arrest:

1. Request Legal Representation: Ask to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to help navigate your rights and the best course of action.
2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Politely refuse to answer any questions or discuss your case with anyone until your attorney is present.
3. Calmly Follow Officer Instructions: While you should remain silent, it's also important to comply with procedural demands such as fingerprinting or mugshots.

Penalties and Long-Term Impacts

The consequences of an aggravated DWI are severe and carry long-term repercussions. The impacts of an aggravated DWI conviction may also affect your life beyond the immediate punitive penalties. For example, you may lose your driving privileges permanently, struggle to secure employment, and suffer socially from a damaged reputation. Similarly, an aggravated DWI conviction on your permanent record can also negatively impact other legal matters you may face in the future. 

Here's how the charges and penalties escalate due to aggravating factors:

• BAC of 0.15% or higher: Classified as a Class A misdemeanor, offenders might face up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $4,000.
• A minor is present in the vehicle: This is considered a state jail felony, potentially leading to 2 years of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.
• Causing serious bodily injury: Incurs a third-degree felony, with penalties including up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
• Causing a fatality: Classified as a second-degree felony, the offender could face up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Other penalties may include license suspension, probation, additional state fines, community service, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, and required completion of an alcohol education program.